Saltwater Forest hunting

General information

Saltwater Forest is approximately 7 km south of Hari Hari. The area is mostly rimu dominant podcarp forest. Low lying areas are generally wet and swampy. A large lagoon is found on the western side. Bush is typically dense and makes hunting difficult. 

Access

Main access point is from Mt Hercules where a gravel road leaves SH6 and heads west into the forest. The main road into the forest is maintained but all other side roads are not. A walking track provides access to Saltwater Lagoon.

Access is also possible onto the north and eastern side from Peterson Road, though the Poerua River has to be crossed on foot. Access is also possible from the south western side, but the Whataroa River has to be crossed and landowner permission obtained.

Landholders

There is no need to cross any pastoral lease or privately owned land to access this area. However landowner permission may be needed depending on access point.

Maps

Topographical map 260 series: I34

Dogs

Dogs are prohibited in all areas except where authorisation has been granted by DOC. People wishing to take a dog into this area should seek authorisation from the local DOC office.

Huts

There are no public huts in this area.

Hunting

Red deer can be found throughout the area at any time of the year however spring hunting and the Roar is most popular.  Chamois may be present in low numbers.

Additional information

Hunters are advised to check for current pesticide operations that may be in progress where they intend to hunt. Summaries are published every four months.

The use of shotguns, shotgun-rifle combos, .22 calibre and rim-fire firearms is prohibited on public conservation land unless stated otherwise.