DOC hunting area

Mataraua Forest

Open5,427haNorthland reserves

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Boundaries

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 Data retrieved 31 July 2026 and may now be out of date.

Species

Goats, Pigs

Permit requirements

A permit is required to hunt on public conservation land.
This hunting area is covered by an 'open area permit' – get it online.

Dog access

Dogs with a current kiwi aversion certificate only.

About this hunting block

The 4,400 hectare Mataraua Forest open hunting block offers opportunities to hunt goats and pigs.

Goats and pigs are present in this reserve.

General information

Cell phone coverage is patchy in the Kauri Coast hunting blocks. Make sure your communication plans take this into consideration.

Fire is a high to moderate risk in Northland all year – light no fires.

Terrain

Covering just under 4,400 hectares, this open hunting block encompasses the eastern boundary of the Waipoua, Mataraua and Waima Forest tracts. Mataraua holds the highest population of Northland kōkako and is a predominant regenerating towai forest.

Mataraua is very difficult to navigate due to the flat plateau to rolling terrain with heavy thick vegetation. Mataraua has a high rainfall. Make sure to wear adequate clothing and if possible a handheld GPS is recommended.

Northland brown kiwi are present in this area.

Access

Access is by foot only along the Waoku Coach Road, which runs through the centre of the Mataraua Forest. Entry points are from the north of Waoku Coach Road in the Waima valley, off State Highway 12 and south in Tutamoe.

There are private roads leading to the Mataraua Forest, and permission must by gained from the landowner prior to crossing private property. Contact the DOC office as staff may be able to assist with point of contact for these private owners.

Topo maps

NZTopo50 series: AW27 and AW28

Dogs

Dogs must be kept under control at all times, and must not be used for hunting until well within the hunting area.

All hunting dogs must have current avian (kiwi) aversion certificate.

Huts

There are no DOC huts in this area.

Weather

Forecast near the middle of the block