Last updated June 2026
Ōtaki Forks is the main western gateway to Tararua Forest Park, located at the end of Ōtaki Gorge Road about 19 km from Ōtaki township. The area sits at the confluence of the Ōtaki and Waiotauru Rivers, providing access to short walks, river swimming, and longer tramping routes into the Tararua Range. The drive from Wellington takes approximately 1.5 hours via State Highway 1 and the narrow, partly gravel Ōtaki Gorge Road, which includes one shallow ford. Summer visitors are drawn to the grassy flats and swimming holes, while the site also serves as a base for multi-day tramps and offers a DOC campsite with basic facilities.
Practical Information
| Location | End of Ōtaki Gorge Road, 19 km from Ōtaki township |
| Travel time from Wellington | About 1.5 hours by car via SH1 then Ōtaki Gorge Road |
| Entry cost | Free for day visits |
| Tracks | Arcus Loop Track (easy loop with river views); longer routes into Tararua Range |
| Swimming | Waiotauru River swimming holes near campsite; Ōtaki River gorge for rafting/kayaking |
| Camping | Ōtaki Forks Campsite (School House Flat) — $10 adult, $5 child per night; bookings required in summer |
| Facilities | Toilets, cooking shelters; no rubbish facilities (pack out all waste); no phone or internet reception |
| Dogs | Allowed at the campsite (on leash); check current park rules |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
About Ōtaki Forks
Tararua Forest Park covers 116,535 hectares of the Tararua Range. Ōtaki Forks provides the primary western access point for visitors from the Kapiti Coast. The lower valley features open river terraces and regenerating bush that reflect a history of farming and sawmilling. The Tararua Range lies directly in the path of weather systems from the Tasman Sea, so conditions can change rapidly even in the more sheltered valley floor.
The Arcus Loop Track is an easy loop that begins on Boielle Flat, crosses the Waiotauru River footbridge, and climbs through river terraces and gullies before rejoining the Field Track. It offers good views of the campground and river and forms part of the Te Araroa Trail. The track commemorates the Arcus family who farmed the locality from the 1930s.
Swimming occurs mainly in the Waiotauru River, with several access points from the campsite area. The water remains cold year-round as it flows from the ranges. The nearby Ōtaki River gorge is used for rafting and kayaking. A historic steam-powered sawmill operated at Sheridan Creek from 1930 to 1938; the site is preserved as a remote discovery area with surviving machinery and tramway sections.
The Ōtaki Forks Campsite at School House Flat operates as the main summer camping area with 150 unpowered sites, cooking shelters, and toilet blocks. Fires are not permitted. A ranger is on site from December to April. Winter camping shifts to Boielles Campsite. The site is described by DOC as family and dog friendly, with dogs permitted on leash at the campsite.
Tramping into the Tararua Range
Ōtaki Forks serves as the starting point for several multi-day tramping routes, including tracks to Field Hut, Kime Hut, and Waitewaewae Hut. Field Hut sits at 900 m just below the bushline and is reached via the Field Track. These routes require backcountry experience, navigation skills, appropriate gear, and careful weather assessment. The exposed tops of the Tararua Range have a history of rapid weather changes and rescue operations. Always file a trip plan and check current conditions with DOC before heading above the treeline.
What Visitors Often Say
The short Arcus Loop and riverside setting make Ōtaki Forks a pleasant spot for a relaxed day out with family or friends, especially on warm summer days when the swimming holes are popular.
Campers appreciate the grassy terraces and basic facilities but note the narrow gravel road and lack of phone reception require good preparation before arriving.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Ōtaki Forks area: Official page with access details, activities, and history for the western Tararua entrance.
DOC — Ōtaki Forks Campsite: Current fees, booking information, and facilities for School House Flat.
DOC — Tararua Forest Park: Overview of the full park including all access points and track information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Ōtaki Forks?
Drive to Ōtaki on SH1, then follow Ōtaki Gorge Road for 19 km to the end. The road is narrow with gravel sections and one shallow ford; allow about 1.5 hours from Wellington.
Is Ōtaki Forks free to visit?
Day visits are free. Camping fees apply for overnight stays at the DOC campsite.
Can I swim at Ōtaki Forks?
Yes. Swimming holes are available in the Waiotauru River near the campsite. The water is cold. The Ōtaki River gorge is used for rafting and kayaking.
Are dogs allowed at Ōtaki Forks?
Dogs are permitted at the Ōtaki Forks Campsite on a leash. Check current DOC rules for the wider park area.
What walks are available at Ōtaki Forks?
The easy Arcus Loop Track offers river views and takes about 50 minutes. Longer day and multi-day tramping routes lead into the Tararua Range and require experience and preparation.
Is Ōtaki Forks suitable for families?
The lower valley, short walks, and swimming areas suit families. Longer alpine routes are more demanding and not suitable for young children.
What wildlife might I see at Ōtaki Forks?
Native birds such as robins, fantails, and tōmtits are commonly seen in the forest. Kiwi may be heard at night near the campsite area.
Are there camping fees and booking requirements?
Fees are $10 per adult and $5 per child per night. Bookings are required for summer stays at School House Flat; winter camping is at Boielles Campsite.
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