Pukenui Forest Loop

The track meanders along the pretty Mangere Stream, passes some impressive kauri and tōtara trees, and follows a stretch of historic logging road.

From SH1, driving north in Whangarei, turn left onto Three Mile Bush Road. Turn left at Amalin Drive then turn right at the entrance to the forest.

The track follows the boundary fence for a short distance, crosses a stream, and arrives at an intersection. This is the starting point of the loop itself and from this point, you can walk the track in either direction.

• Dogs, horses, firearms and fires are not allowed.
• There may be wasps and wasp nests in the area.

Pukenui is regionally important for its ecological, cultural and historic significance. DOC, local iwi, the Pukenui Western Hills Forest Charitable Trust and the community are committed to restoring Pukenui through their revegetation programme, weed and pest control.

As predator numbers have dropped, North Island brown kiwi have been released into the area. The vision is for the restoration work to continue, resulting in an increase in the numbers and variety of native flora and fauna.

Pukenui Forest, the Whau Valley Catchment and Coronation reserve are of great importance to the Whangārei District. The areas contain high conservation values, are full of historic and cultural sites and provide great recreational opportunities.

The stone walls, built by hand, are a feature of the landscape in this district and have endured remarkably well over the years.