Mangapurua hunting

Located in Whanganui District hunting in the Manawatu/Whanganui region

Mangapurua has high numbers of goats and low to medium numbers of fallow deer, red deer and pigs.

About this hunting block

Includes: Part Whanganui National Park, Section 18 and Mangapurua Valley Scenic Reserves and Adams, Kaiwhakauka, Mangatawai, and part Tahakē Conservation Areas.

High numbers of goats, low to medium numbers of fallow deer, red deer and pigs are present within this area. Care must be taken not to shoot on adjoining private land.

This area has high recreational use with trampers and mountain bikers so extra care should be taken and always identify your target beyond all doubt.

No hunting on or within 50 metres of the Mangapurua and Kaiwhakauka Tracks.

General information

Whanganui National Park is one of the largest remaining areas of lowland forest in the North Island. The vegetation of this area is mainly podocarp/tawa with beech ridges in the southern part of the block with some regenerating manuka forest near the eastern boundaries.

The topography is moderate to steep with deep gorges, sheer papa bluffs and waterfalls. The internal tracks are ridge top tracks. The tracks are well marked with markers and only experienced hunters of this area should venture from the tracks. Kiwi and blue ducks are known to be present. 

Access

The main access points are;

  • Whanganui River; by boat from various points including Whakahoro, Taumarunui, Ohinepane and Pipiriki. Jetboat operators on the river can provide a drop off and pick up service to tramping tracks and hunting grounds.
  • Helicopters; several helicopter operators have concessions to land within the area at designated landing sites.
  • Mangapurua Track; from State Highway 4 north of Raetihi turn onto Ruatiti Road. Continue along this road until reaching the start of the Mangapurua Track. The Mangapurua Track passes through Ruatiti Station. Dogs must be kept on a chain or caged at all times while passing through the station. No shooting until inside the Whanganui National Park.
  • Kaiwhakauka Track; from State Highway 4 south of Ōwhango turn onto Oio Road. Continue on this road to the road end where Whakahoro Campground is situated. The Kaiwhakauka Track passes through Blue Duck Station. Dogs must be kept on a chain or caged at all times while passing through the station. No shooting until inside the Whanganui National Park.

Maps

NZTopo50 BH32, BH33 and BJ32 and BJ33

Dogs

A separate permit is required to hunt with dogs. All dogs must be avian avoidance certified. Contact the local DOC office for details.

Huts and campsites