The large Hihitahi Forest Sanctuary contains a fine example of the montane forest typical of wetter mountain areas such as this.

Of particular renown is its stands of pahautea (native cedar) and Hall’s tōtara, which have been the basis for many scientific studies over the years. Visible collapse of this forest type has prompted research on the impacts of possum browsing on both species. Possum control is an important part of today’s management of this forest.