Waioeka Gorge Scenic Reserve

Deer, pigs and goats are present in this Scenic Reserve.

Pig and deer hunting is popular in this Scenic Reserve, deer and pig numbers are generally low to moderate.

There was a long running control programme to reduce goats to zero density on the western side of SH2, and there is ongoing control on the eastern side, so if you see goats in these areas please shoot and/or advise DOC Biodiversity staff in the Ōpōtiki office of the location, number and colour of the goats seen.

Terrain is characterised by steep gullies up to the ridges, dense understory and numerous small streams.

There are a number of access points along SH2 in the Waioweka Gorge south of Ōpōtiki.

You must cross the Waioweka River to access some western parts of this area, there are three bridges that will give you access along SH2, the historic Taranga bridge, a bridge at Oponae, and Wairata, approximately 25, 35 and 40 kms south of Ōpōtiki respectively.

The majority of Waioweka Gorge Scenic Reserve is surrounded by public land, namely the Waioweka and Urutawa Conservation Areas. Some private land is located in the centre of this Scenic Reserve; you must obtain landowner permission before crossing any parcel of private land.

NZTopo50 Whakatāne BE40, Ōpōtiki BE41, Oponae BF41.

There are no public huts within this Scenic Reserve.

Dogs

To take dogs into this area get authorisation from the Gisborne DOC Office. To take dogs across private property you must get permission from the landowner.

Help control wallabies in this area by reporting sightings

Wallabies can displace other species, affect pastures and native species' habitats.
They also potentially impact production and native ecosystems.

Report your sighting online – it only takes a few minutes.

You can also report wallaby sightings by calling 0800 80 99 66.

More about why wallabies are a problem.