Last updated May 2026
Pakuratahi Forest covers the Pākuratahi catchment west of the Remutaka Range, north of Upper Hutt. It is a large block of native and exotic forest managed by Greater Wellington Regional Council, with walking tracks, mountain biking, river access, and historic connections to the old Remutaka Rail Trail. Access is free and the forest adjoins Kaitoke Regional Park to the south.
Practical Information
| Location | North of Upper Hutt, west of the Remutaka Range (access via Waterworks Road area and Tunnel Gully) |
|---|---|
| Admission | Free |
| Facilities | Picnic areas and toilets at Tunnel Gully; river swimming in Pākuratahi River and Collins Stream |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
About the Forest
Pakuratahi Forest sits in the valley above Upper Hutt, between the urban edge and the Remutaka Range. The lower areas of the forest include Tunnel Gully — a popular local recreation area with picnic spots, a walking track through native bush, and the historic Mangaroa Tunnel, a remnant of early Wellington water infrastructure. The upper forest has more challenging tracks and mountain biking terrain.
The Pākuratahi River and Collins Stream both run through the forest and provide swimming spots in summer. The forest also forms part of the access corridor to the historic Remutaka Cycle Trail — which follows the route of the old Remutaka Incline railway through the hills to Featherston.
Key Areas and Tracks
Tunnel Gully is the main family-friendly area — easy walking through native bush, river access, and the historic tunnel. The Tane’s Track runs through forest from Tunnel Gully. The Mount Climie Track is a more demanding walk to a hilltop viewpoint. Mountain biking tracks range from beginner-friendly to more advanced terrain in the upper forest. The Remutaka Rail Trail (Incline Road) provides a historically significant route through the area for walkers and cyclists.
Where to Learn More
Remutaka Rail Trail — information on the historic Remutaka Incline route through the Remutaka Range.
FAQ
Where is Pakuratahi Forest?
North of Upper Hutt, accessed via Waterworks Road (which also leads to Kaitoke Regional Park) and via Tunnel Gully Road in Upper Hutt.
Is Pakuratahi Forest free to visit?
Yes — access is free.
What is Tunnel Gully?
The main family-friendly area within the forest — with walking tracks, native bush, river access, and the historic Mangaroa Tunnel. It is the most developed and accessible part of the forest.
Can I swim at Pakuratahi Forest?
Yes — the Pākuratahi River and Collins Stream have swimming spots accessible within the forest. Check conditions after rain.
Is mountain biking available?
Yes — there are mountain biking tracks for varying ability levels. The Remutaka Cycle Trail also passes through the area.
How does it differ from Kaitoke Regional Park?
Kaitoke Regional Park (adjacent to the south) is more developed, with camping, BBQ facilities, and the Rivendell filming site. Pakuratahi Forest is a broader forest block with more varied terrain, historic links via the Remutaka Rail Trail, and the Tunnel Gully recreation area.
Nearby: Kaitoke Regional Park adjoins the forest and has camping, river swimming, and the Rivendell LOTR filming site. See Wellington Parks and Reserves for all options.
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