The Totara Valley Forest Partnership was formed October 1999. Planting of the property took place in the winter of 2000. In 2021 Totara Valley had an estimated net stocked area of 293 hectares. Harvesting is forecast to commence in 2028.

Totara Valley Forest is situated 80 km north of Napier. Access to the forest is gained from Willow Flat Road, 13 km from the junction with State Highway 2 at Kotemaori.