Thread: Finally ready to go.

Hi All,
Ive finally got me some gear sorted and with a couple of weeks leave from work im chomping at the bit to get out and about ref DOC land walking (with fingers crossed maybe even get a shot off).
Ive covered the permits around Auckland and Waikato and wondered if anyone familiar with these areas could throw me a few pearls of wisdom ref where to go and how to go about doing it.
I would be happy with a goat for a starter.
Ive been down to the Hapuakohe Range (Mangarata), at the North Road entrance and had a walk down the trail,
But the only thing i saw was a really nice bloke and 3 dogs carrying a tidy little piggy on his back, he said there were sometimes goats in the fields just off the track, I didnt see any and im not sure if thats still DOC land anyhow?
I did also see a nice fat mommy pig complete with babies off to the side of the road at Ohinewai Road.
Also does anyone know how to get into the Mangatawhiri block from Lyons Road end or Paparimu side? the area looks inviting on google maps hehe.
Being a newbey at this hunting lark, any advice is gratefully accepted.

Awesome forum by the way.

Thanks.