North Island of New Zealand

The Otanewainuku Kiwi Trust protects the kiwi population in a 700 Hectare block of native New Zealand bush, in a DoC (Department of Conservation) managed conservation estate.

The block is 15km South of Tauranga, off State Highway 29, via Oropi Rd and then Mountain Road.

There is a small carpark and a shelter built by Te Puke Rotary. Dogs are banned as they can kill kiwi, even when they are on a lead.

The bush is unique in the Western BOP as it has never been milled. Some of the rimu are estimated to be many hundreds of years old.

A free large map "Destination Outdoors B.O.P." is available from your local Department of Conservation office.

This map (part shown left) shows and details many superb outdoor walks, scenic reserves and parks in the Bay of Plenty. From Waihi to Whakatane, Rainbow Mountain to Otanewainuku.

No. 23 "Mount Otanewainuku is covered in virgin forest and native bird life is prolific."

The Rimu Loop walk is an easy one for young families. For a stunning view go to the top of Mount Otanewainuku via the summit track. Another good walk is Mountain Road to the Whataroa Waterfall.

Some years ago possums were trapped in this area, and lines cleared into the bush. These same lines are now beng used to lay stoat traps.

The lines are 300m apart, and stoat traps placed every 150m along each line.

To see get up close and personal and see where we've been catching stoats click on this map.

Check out our tally!!