Access & Safety
Whakarewarewa Forest is more than a commercial forest. It’s a place where recreation and forestry successfully coexist. Active partnerships with the Rotorua Trails Trust, Rotorua Lakes Council, and iwi, mean we manage our operations while keeping the forest open for the community.
Our approach ensures mountain bikers and other recreational users can continue to enjoy the trails whenever it’s safe to do so. Our collaborative efforts support both recreation and sustainable forestry in one of New Zealand’s most popular riding destinations.
All harvested areas are replanted, if possible, in the next planting season.
Anyone wishing to access Whakarewarewa Forest must comply with our Rules & Safety Behaviours.
Rules & Safety Behaviours
Latest Operational Updates
Commercial Operations
Safety is our top priority. Active forestry areas can be hazardous, and all forest users must follow signage and stay out of operational zones. Entering these areas puts both the public and our kaimahi (workers) at risk. Whether it’s waste thinning, aerial operations, road edge felling or harvesting, forestry work involves serious hazards and access restrictions are in place to protect everyone.
We work closely with local organisations to raise awareness about forest safety and ensure that recreational users can continue to enjoy Whakarewarewa Forest safely. By reading and following signage, visitors help us maintain the balance between world-class recreation and sustainable forestry.
Business Permits
Recreational Access
No hunting is permitted at any time in Whakarewarewa Forest.
Recreational access by foot, horse or bike does not require an access permit. To keep up to date on forest activity, closures and trail maintenance, visit Rotorua Trails Trust's Facebook page.
On rare occasions, all access to the forest may be closed for safety reasons or asset protection. Please respect the decision and stay out until the forest is reopened.
Anyone needing to bring a vehicle into the forest requires a key and a business permit.
Recreational Permits
Related Information
In partnership with the Rotorua Lakes Council, Regional Tourism Organisation RotoruaNZ and the CNI Iwi Collective, we are urging all recreational users of Whakarewarewa Forest to stay out of unauthorised operational areas to ensure safety.
Media ReleaseUnauthorised Activities
Unauthorised mountain bike tracks have been built in Whakarewarewa Forest without approval. Track construction or any land disturbance requires consent from both Kaingaroa Tipu, as the forest manager, and Central North Island Iwi Holdings Limited, as the landowner. Approval can only be granted through application via the Rotorua Trails Trust.
Anyone building tracks without permission will be trespassed and may face prosecution for wilful damage. This activity could impact future track approvals and the future of mountain biking in the forest. Please respect the process and help protect this valued recreational space.
