The forest that’s
owned by Dunedin
for Dunedin
City Forests Ltd is a multi-generational forestry asset owned by the people of Dunedin City for 120 years. City Forests owns and manages 25,100 hectares of land and commercial forestry estate in the coastal Otago region.
City Forests’ purpose is to operate sustainable forests for the future of Dunedin. The company is focused on economic, social, and environmental values of its forestry investment while ensuring consistent, long-term dividend returns.
The company provides commercial returns to the DCC, supports local jobs and recreation, enhances water quality and biodiversity and helps fight climate change!
Latest News & Alerts
Ross Creek Redwoods / McGouns track closures (further)
Tuesday 5th August 2025
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.
Ross Creek Redwoods / McGouns track closures
Monday 12th May 2025
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.
Tell us about a hazard
Concerned about something in one of our forests? Please click here to let us know.
Leading Sustainable Forestry in New Zealand Since 1906
City Forests is Dunedin's premier forest products company, sustainably managing approximately 20,000 hectares of certified production forests and growing more than 8 million trees across Coastal Otago. As leaders in ecological stewardship and community partnership, we're contributing to New Zealand's zero carbon future while delivering strong economic returns and social outcomes for our city.
Sustainability & Ecology Leaders
Contributing to New Zealand's zero carbon future through innovative forest management practices. Our FSC® certified forests capture millions of tonnes of CO2 while protecting biodiversity and endangered species like the New Zealand Falcon and Eldon's Galaxias. Carbon returns are substantial and are reward for these services.
Robust Stewardship, Environmental Excellence
Over 120 years of proven forest management expertise. Our team leads the industry in sustainable commercial land management practices whilst additionally managing approximately 2,400 hectares of native forest reserves and riparian zones, pioneering biodiversity conservation initiatives. This work includes programs to protect and enhance rare, threatened and endangered species such as Karearea (NZ Falcon), SI Robin and Eldins Galaxiid all of which thrive on our estate.
Economic prosperity for Dunedin
Generating strong economic returns through sustainable forestry. We employ 85+ local staff and contractors, contribute millions in dividends to Dunedin City Holdings, Dunedin City Council, and have delivered a 1500% return on investment (equity gain plus dividend) since 1990.
Community & Social Impact
Enhancing social wellbeing through recreation, education, and genuine partnerships. We support 13 community groups, maintain 57km of public walking and mountain biking tracks, and work collaboratively with Mana Whenua to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
