News & Alerts

Machine tree felling for removal of hazardous trees is scheduled for August/September 2025 in the Ross Creek / McGouns Rd area and will cause temporary track closures.  Some minor track damage is expected.

This (thinning) operation will improve forest health by removing smaller trees and support the large redwoods to grow on, ensuring ongoing recreational use of this forest.

This will require temporary complete closure of the Ross Creek redwoods biking/walking tracks.  When this operation commences please strictly obey all signage and taped off areas, and for your safety and the safety of others DO NOT enter the closed forest area.

Routine tree felling for thinning of younger forest stands in the Ross Creek / McGouns Rd area in May/June 2025 will cause temporary short-term track closures in this area.

Disruption is expected to be minimal, with only a small number of walking and mountain biking tracks needing to be closed.

Please obey all signage and for your safety and the safety of others DO NOT enter a closed track area.

Recreational forest users, please obey all warning signs you see in the forests. In particular, keep yourself and others safe by staying well away from Operational areas such as active harvesting areas, even during weekends and after normal business hours when it may appear that there is no activity taking place.

Forest visitors please be aware that City Forests and Manawa Energy have installed a locked gate at the entrance to the road to the Mahinerangi Dam.  Unfortunately a large increase in instances of unauthorised camping, fire-lighting and vandalism of both City Forests' and Manawa's assets in this isolated area has led to our joint decision to restrict access to this road and area, which is all on privately owned land.  The gate will now remain locked and keys will not be issued for non-work related access, with the exception that a limited amount of Angler only access may be available by contacting the Fish & Game Otago office.  Note that walkway and cycling access is still provided for around the gate.  For visitors wanting boating access an upgraded boat ramp and parking facility is available at Starks Bridge near the Mahinerangi Village.

A general reminder to intending forest users that if you wish to organise and hold an event of any sort in any of our forest areas then you will need to first contact us to discuss your ideas, be issued with a permit, and become informed about specific forest hazards, forest operational restrictions, and any environmental issues. Please contact us early to start the process. You can start by applying for an Event permit