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Introduction

Hunt red deer and chamois in the Waiheke-Tūtaekurī-Trent area. This area covers the catchments of the upper Ahaura River.

Species

  • Chamois
  • Deer - Red

Permit requirements

A permit is required to hunt on public conservation land.

This hunting area is covered by an 'open area permit' – get it online or from a DOC office.

Dog access

No dogs

About this hunting block

General information

This area covers the catchments of the upper Ahaura River. The Waiheke, Tūtaekurī and Trent are all large rivers that join with the Ahaura River. There are areas of open tops to about 1700 m altitude in the main valleys, and two passes that link with Canterbury valleys.

Vegetation mainly consists of beech/podocarp forested valleys with numerous open flats, and large areas of tussock tops at higher altitudes.

Access

Turn off SH7 at Ngahere and via Nelson Creek travel 53 km to the road end at Waikiti Downs Station. Foot travel is easy up all the main valleys along open sections and bush terraces with river crossings where necessary. There are no foot bridges. The Waiheke Valley links with the Doubtful Valley through Amuri Pass. There is a newly marked section of track at the head of the Waiheke that leads into the Amuri Pass.

The Tūtaekurī Valley has open river bed in its lower reaches but closes in higher up the valley. There is a route into the Hope Valley through the Hope Pass. A short section of marked track is followed through the pass.

The Trent Valley has open river bed travel for much of its length and has a marked route through the pass (1071 m) into the head of the the Haupiri Valley. 

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

Landholders

You no longer need permission from Waikiti Downs Station, just follow the road to a car park at the end. 

Maps

NZTopo50 BU21, BU22.

Dogs

Dogs are prohibited in this area.

Huts

There are several huts in this area:

Hunting

Red deer can be found throughout the area at any time of the year and hunting during the spring and Roar is popular. Chamois can be found in alpine areas. Possums are regularly controlled by TBfree throughout the lower parts of the area.

Additional information

Brown trout are present in all three rivers.

Contacts

DOC Customer Service Centre
Phone 0800 275 362
Email greymouth@doc.govt.nz
Address DOC offices
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