Mountain biking, walking and running trails are a step closer to becoming a reality at Ōhiwa Forest, with a new agreement signed between forestry owner Ingka Investments and local recreation groups.

Ingka Investments, the investment arm of Ingka Group, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Whakatāne Mountain Bike Club and the Bike Whakatāne Trust to progress plans for public access to the Eastern Bay of Plenty forest, a media release said this week.

The agreement sets out a shared intention to develop a network of multi-use trails in stages, aimed at providing recreational opportunities for locals while also creating a future tourism drawcard for the region.

Ōhiwa Forest, near Whakatāne, has been owned by Ingka Investments since September 2023 and covers 580ha.

The MoU outlines plans for the parties to work together over the coming months on a staged development plan to secure a formal licence to operate that would allow for trail construction, maintenance and public access.

However, all parties emphasise that the forest will remain an active production site, with safety and forestry operations taking priority.

Ingka Investments New Zealand forestland country manager Kelvin Meredith said the partnership reflected a commitment to sharing the land responsibly.

Richard Hamer, Theo Duydustyn and Derek Caudwell. Photo / Supplied

“This partnership reflects our commitment to responsible land stewardship and to enabling community recreation where it can be safely integrated with forestry operations,” Meredith said.

“We see real potential for us to share the land we have in Ōhiwa Forest and open it up for wellbeing and outdoor activity, while continuing to operate as a productive forest.”

Initial planning work for the first stage of trails is expected to begin this summer, subject to safety approvals.

Local groups say the project could deliver significant benefits for both residents and visitors.

Whakatāne Mountain Bike Club president Richard Hamer said the forest has “huge potential” as a multi-use recreation space.

“This partnership gives us a clear pathway to develop trails that will be enjoyed by riders, runners and walkers alike,” Hamer said.

“We’re excited to help create something that supports youth development, family activity and healthy outdoor recreation for the whole community.”

Bike Whakatāne Trust chair Rex Humpherson said well-designed trails would boost both health and the local economy.

“Safe, well-designed trails bring enormous community benefits – from encouraging active lifestyles to supporting local businesses and visitor experiences,” he said.

Whakatāne District Council has also welcomed the progress, with project manager tourism and events Tim Allerby describing the proposal as an “exciting opportunity” for the district.

Ōhiwa Forest. Photo / Supplied

Despite the progress, Ōhiwa Forest remained closed to the public.

The MoU makes it clear that access is not yet permitted, and entering the forest without approval is unsafe due to ongoing forestry operations.

Temporary or permanent closures may also be required in future to accommodate forestry work once trails are established.

Until a formal licence is in place and trails are built, the public is being urged to stay out of the forest and follow all safety guidance.