Kauarapaoa Scenic Reserve
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 Data retrieved 31 July 2026 and may now be out of date.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, Goats, Pigs
A permit is required to hunt on public conservation land.
This hunting area is covered by an 'open area permit' – get it online.
Dogs with a DOC permit (contact the relevant DOC office) and a current kiwi aversion certificate only.
About this hunting block
The regenerating forest of the Kauarapaoa Scenic Reserve and Mystery Block Conservation Area are home to kiwi. The area is most popular for hunting pigs using dogs.
Fallow deer, pigs and goats are present in low numbers. The area is most popular as a pig hunting block using dogs.
Caution: Kauarapaoa Scenic Reserve is only approximately 300 metres wide. Hunters should be aware of the boundaries and not hunt on the adjoining private land.
General information
These blocks are steep and predominantly regenerating forest. There are areas of podocarp/beech forest. The Kauarapaoa Stream is deeply entrenched and cannot be crossed near the southwest boundary. Kiwi are known to be present.
Access
Turn off State Highway 3 at Kai Iwi onto Rangitatau East Road. The blocks can be accessed directly off Rangitatau East Road or Bruce Road. The blocks can also be accessed from Whanganui via Papaiti Road, then Kauarapaoa Road which connects up with Rangitatau East Road in between the two block.
Maps
NZtopo50 BK32
Dogs
A separate permit is required to hunt with dogs. All dogs must be avian avoidance certified. Contact the local DOC office for details.
Huts
There are no DOC huts in this reserve.
Additional information
There is an old farm track off Bruce Road that is not maintained. Low visitor use.
Weather
Forecast near the middle of the block