Thread: Hunting the Akatarawas

Originally Posted by Slug

Been there, done that, many moons ago. Surprised you did not get run over by motor bikes or baled up by pig dogs. It's a playground for these types, hence what deer are there are really good at hiding in the thicker regenerating bush.

think less pig hunters go up these days as the amount of 4wd clubs that go through is insane. you could pass over 20 trucks on a nice weekend day. ( before the slip came down anyway !! )

My staff have seen a few on Akatarawa rd at night, very close to the Waikanae township.

Originally Posted by Slug

Been there, done that, many moons ago. Surprised you did not get run over by motor bikes or baled up by pig dogs. It's a playground for these types, hence what deer are there are really good at hiding in the thicker regenerating bush.

I entered up further from the main trail entrance to avoid them, was a k or two north. That was kinda my assumption so I've been avoiding the trails and just walking directly into the bush

I've seen a few, but all down the SW end where you're not allowed to hunt.

Because they found some Northern Rata in there it has had a dose of 1080 about 6 months ago

A few possums on the road but not nearly as many as before
Hares and bunnies on the Waikanae side

Don't leave a vehicle at the summit - too many scrotes about

Someone with more recent experience may put something up but definitely easier to get about if you have a quad or bike

GWRC post out free registration for bike riding and send you this map which is helpful

https://arac.org.nz/akatarawa-forest...access-tracks/


Also it is DOWN Devils Staircase and UP Rockgarden, don't ask me how I know
If you go into either, have a winch on yr quad or a light trials type bike, NOT an XR500
Again, don't ask

...Hold my beer


They haven't been looking very hard. The Northern Rata was everywhere when I frequented the place. But that was some time ago.

Originally Posted by XR500

...Hold my beer


They haven't been looking very hard. The Northern Rata was everywhere when I frequented the place. But that was some time ago.

Yeah, this one was pretty big and the treehuggers got all excited

bless their cotton socks

Pmd you

Hunted the Aka's for years, IMO its a waste of time. I don't bother anymore. As others have said, head to Otaki forks from your side or a little further to the Ruahine. 9/10 when you factor in walking time together with drive time you'll be onto animals was sooner and easier further north. The hunting is way more pleasant too.

Alright so thanks everyone for the tips I appreciate them a lot!

I'm going to head up to the reservoirs in mangahao tomorrow after work and hunting the evening and early morning, try track down a good west facing ridge tomorrow and see what I can come across
Hopefully it puts out better results than the akas!