Otaki Forks has been developed for a wide range of activities, there will be something for everyone to enjoy, from Historic sites, swing bridges, camping, fishing, swiming, tramping and hiking!
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Schoolhouse Flat camping area is set among bush and grassy terraces. Pay at caretaker’s house or on request. Black Gate Camp site at Otaki Forks is open all year round, with 20 sites available for for use. This camp site is located 500 meters before you research Schoolhouse flat's |
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Waiotauru Suspension Bridge located at Otaki Forks crosses the mighty Otaki river. Otaki Forks is the main western entrance to the Tararua Forest Park. The Road swing bridge at Otaki Gorge is fantastic structure, with amazing views from the bridge of the Otaki River and the beautiful natural surroundings of Otaki Gorge. |
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Tararua Forest Park, the amazing Totara Tree Tunnel is a great place for a photo opportunity, the trees have grown over the road to almost touch and form the natural tunnel. The Native Tree Hunt, New Zealand's long geological isolation means that most of its flora is unique, with a wide variety of native trees that have adapted to all the various micro-climates. |
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Dry stone walls were built during the Great Depression of the 1930's as a result of a government scheme to provide relief work for the unemployed. The Taraua Timber Mill, In 1840 around two thirds of New Zealand was still covered in forest and this provided the basis for a strong indigenous timber industry over the next 140 years. The timber industry was immediately challenged by the stronger political impetus to establish farms for settlers. |
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Otaki Forks provides access to the network of huts in Tararua Forest Park. Several huts are within 1 day’s walk. Tracks vary in condition and terrain. Parawai Hut is a Standard hut (1 ticket per night), 5 minutes from the picnic area. Arcus Loop Field Hut and table Top Fenceline Loop Seed and O’Brien’s Sawmill Schoolhouse Flat walks Pukeatua Track. |
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Historic Sheirdan Creek, the steam powered sawmill at Sheridan Creek, Otaki Forks, operated from 1930 to 1938. It was a shoestring operation and worker safety was not a priority. But during the depression employees were pleased to have a job. The Ford crossing at Otaki Forks add's a little bit of outdoor adventure to your journey along Otaki Gorge Road. Always take into consideration the weather as you don't want to get stuck. |
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