Pureora Forest and surrounds hunting

Located in the Waikato region

Learn about the many hunting opportunities available on public conservation land in the Waikato area.

The 78,000 ha Pureora Forest Park straddles the Hauhungaroa and Rangitoto Ranges between Lake Taupo and Te Kuiti.

It is a hidden wonderland of tall trees, clear rivers and rare wildlife. These forests contain significant populations of Dactylanthus taylorii and mistletoe, as well as shrublands, grasslands, beech forest and some of the least-modified wetlands/mires in the North Island.

The abundant birdlife includes New Zealand pigeon/kereru, tui, whitehead and North Island robin. There are populations of the rarer New Zealand falcon, yellow-crowned kakariki and blue duck/whio. Kaka and kokako are found here, as are both long and short-tailed bats.

Moderate numbers of deer and pigs may be found throughout the Rangitoto and Hauhungaroa Ranges.

State Highways 3 and 43 traverse much of the area and there are numerous side roads that provide access into the backcountry and public conservation lands.

Mangatutu Route

Time: 2 hr to ridge

This unmarked hunters' access route starts from the northern end of Okahukura Rd in the north block of the park. The route crosses two streams before climbing steeply onto the main ridge leading to Mt Ranginui. The route ends at the top of the ridge.

Climate

Whilst generally warm and dry through the summer months, both the Hauhangaroa and Rangitoto Ranges can experience significant temperature shifts within a short period of time. Hunters are advised to be prepared for all weather eventualities.