Important: Automated electronic gates & required vehicle documentation
To all recreational forest users, hunters & anglers
We want to inform you of an important update regarding access to Kaingaroa Forest ahead of recreational permit applications opening this Friday 7 March.
To enhance safety and security in the forest, we have installed new automated electronic gates at key entry points over recent months.
These gates open for permitted vehicles using number plate recognition.
This means all recreational users applying for a permit for the 2025 season are required to provide a photo of their vehicle’s current Warrant of Fitness (WoF) and registration before being granted access.
During the season, vehicles belonging to permit holders will be automatically sent a reminder via email two weeks before their WoF and registration expires. To maintain seamless access, we encourage permit holders to act quickly to renew their WoFs and registrations, and to inform First Security.
What you need to do:
1. Take a clear photo of your vehicle’s Warrant of Fitness and registration.
2. Submit the photos when applying for your recreational permit via First Security's website.
3. Once approved, your access will be activated.
4. If your WoF and registration expire during the season, you will need to provide a photo of your renewed WoF and/or registration to maintain access. Email the required documents via photos and your name to timberlands.permits@firstsecurity.co.nz.
Further information on the automated gates will be provided in the Recreational Forest Access Health & Safety Induction.
Privacy and monitoring
These gates are monitored by camera 24/7. This monitoring is strictly for safety purposes and to prevent unauthorised access. Personal information collected by the gate system, such as vehicle details, will be carefully protected to ensure it remains secure and used only for its intended purpose.
These measures are in place to improve safety and compliance for all forest visitors. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to your continued enjoyment of the forest.
Recreational Forest Access Permit Applications for the Kaingaroa and Rotoehu Forests will open this Friday 7 March on the First Security website.
Ngā mihi,
Colin Maunder
General Manager Sustainability
