Hihitahi Forest Sanctuary
Alerts
Boundaries are approximate and not suitable for accurate boundary definition. Check current DOC permit conditions before hunting. Data retrieved 31 July 2026 and may now be out of date.
Deer - Fallow, Deer - Red, Deer - Sika
A permit is required to hunt on public conservation land.
This hunting area is covered by an 'open area permit' – get it online.
No dogs
About this hunting block
Red deer are present in the Hihitahi Forest Sanctuary, off State Highway 1, approximately 17 km north from Taihape.
Hunting opportunities in the Hihitahi Forest Sanctuary include red deer and low numbers of fallow and sika deer.
The area may be treated with 1080. Check the pesticide summary.
Possums are present but use of .22 and shot guns are prohibited, as is hunting during the hours of darkness. Permits to use traps are available from the local DOC office.
General information
Isolated area of forest on rolling to very steep hill country encompassing the head waters of the Kaitapa Stream, including limestone outcrops and caves, mixed podocarp forest with pahautea dominant below 900 m. Above this is pahautea and Halls totara over broadleaf and other montane shrubs.
Access
Access to Hihitahi Forest Sanctuary is on the eastern side of State Highway 1. Legal walking access begins at a DOC sign about 17 km north of Taihape.
Maps
NZTopo50 BK35
Dogs
No dogs allowed.
Huts
Weather
Forecast near the middle of the block