Last updated July 2026
Pākuratahi Forest covers 8,000 hectares of native and exotic forest in the hills between Upper Hutt and the Wairarapa, on the western side of the Remutaka Range. Managed by Greater Wellington Regional Council, it offers walking tracks, mountain biking routes, river swimming, and historic connections to the old Remutaka railway. The forest adjoins Kaitoke Regional Park to the south and provides free public access with vehicle gates open during daylight hours.
Practical Information
| Location | Hills between Upper Hutt and Wairarapa, north of Upper Hutt (access via Tunnel Gully and Waterworks Road areas) |
| Admission | Free |
| Opening hours | Parks always open to foot traffic; vehicle gates 6am–6pm (winter) or 6am–8pm (daylight saving) |
| Facilities | Picnic areas and flush toilets at Tunnel Gully; river access for swimming |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
About Pākuratahi Forest
Pākuratahi Forest lies in the Pākuratahi catchment north of Upper Hutt. The lower sections centre on the Tunnel Gully Recreation Area, a popular spot with picnic facilities, parking, and easy access to native bush and streams. Higher areas feature more challenging terrain and plantation forest.
The forest supports a range of recreational activities including walking, mountain biking, swimming in the Pākuratahi River and Collins Stream, camping at designated sites, and horse riding with a permit. Rangers patrol the area and pest control operations occur periodically.
Historically the valley formed part of a Māori travel route and later hosted the Remutaka railway line, including the Mangaroa Tunnel built between 1875 and 1877. The line closed in 1955 when the current Remutaka Tunnel opened, and the old formation now serves as the rail trail section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail.
Tracks and Activities
Tunnel Gully provides family-friendly options with walking tracks through remnant native bush and the 253-metre Mangaroa Tunnel. Tane’s Track offers a loop through tall podocarp and beech forest to Collins Stream and a waterfall. The Old Railway Line follows the historic formation toward Kaitoke.
Mountain biking includes beginner to advanced trails within the forest and the gently graded Remutaka Cycle Trail rail section from Kaitoke to Summit. The trail links with the Department of Conservation-managed incline section beyond the summit.
Swimming and paddling are available in the shallow waters of Collins Stream at Tunnel Gully and in the Pākuratahi River. Camping is permitted at Summit and Ladle Bend sites along the trail, with no fires allowed.
History and Heritage
Until the 1855 earthquake, Māori used routes through the area between Te Whanganui-a-Tara and Wairarapa. Colonial road and rail links followed similar paths from the mid-1800s. The Remutaka railway featured a steep 1:15 incline on the Wairarapa side served by Fell locomotives until 1955.
The redundant railway infrastructure, including tunnels and bridges, was preserved for public use. The Remutaka Cycle Trail rail trail section opened formally in 1987 and remains a key feature of the forest today.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the mix of easy family walks around Tunnel Gully and more demanding mountain bike trails higher up. Many enjoy the historic tunnel and quiet river spots for a cool-off on warm days.
Reviewers note the peaceful setting close to Upper Hutt, good parking at Tunnel Gully, and the scenic rail trail section that suits both walkers and cyclists of varying abilities.
Where to Learn More
Greater Wellington – Pākuratahi Forest: official page with track details, maps, activity information and current notices.
Remutaka Rail Trail: information on the historic incline route and trail management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pākuratahi Forest?
It lies in the hills north of Upper Hutt between the urban area and the Remutaka Range, with main access points at Tunnel Gully and via Waterworks Road.
Is Pākuratahi Forest free to visit?
Yes, access is free for all activities.
What facilities are available at Tunnel Gully?
Tunnel Gully has picnic areas, flush toilets, parking, and easy walking tracks plus river access.
Can I swim in Pākuratahi Forest?
Yes, the Pākuratahi River and Collins Stream offer swimming and paddling spots; check conditions after rain and boil stream water before drinking.
Is mountain biking available?
Yes, the forest has trails for a range of abilities plus the Remutaka Cycle Trail rail section.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs must be kept on a leash in areas under pest control operations; check current notices on the Greater Wellington website.
How does Pākuratahi Forest differ from Kaitoke Regional Park?
Pākuratahi Forest offers broader forest terrain and historic rail trail access while Kaitoke Regional Park provides more developed facilities including camping and the Rivendell filming location.
Is camping permitted?
Yes, free camping is available at designated sites such as Summit and Ladle Bend; portable gas stoves are allowed but no fires.
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