Mangakara Nature Walk (Parking)
About the Business
Welcome to Mangakara Nature Walk, located in Pirongia Forest Park in the beautiful Waikato region of New Zealand. As an establishment, park, point of interest, and tourist attraction, we offer visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of this area.
Our nature walk features two tracks that lead to Wharauroa Lookout, situated at an elevation of 850 meters. From this vantage point, you can enjoy one of the most breathtaking views of Hamilton, Te Awamutu, and the surrounding landscape. For even more spectacular vistas, continue on to Mahaukura Lookout, which sits at an elevation of 902 meters and offers sweeping views towards the King Country.
The Mahaukura Track begins at the Grey Road car park and takes you on a steady climb through tawa forest towards Wharauroa Lookout. The final stretch leading to the viewpoint is slightly steep, but don't worry, we have installed chains to guide you safely. Just 30 minutes further along the track, you'll arrive at Mahaukura Lookout.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, our track also continues on to Pirongia summit. If you're up for the challenge, check out our Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga Tracks.
To reach our nature walk, simply head 11 kilometers north of Pirongia. Once you reach 5.5 kilometers north of Pirongia, turn off SH39 onto Te Pahu Road. From there, take the first left turn into Hodgson Road, followed by another left turn into Grey Road. Follow this road all the way to the end, and you'll arrive at our starting point.
Please note that the track crosses private farmland from the O'Shea Road car park. We kindly ask that you stick to the marked track and use stiles to ensure the preservation of the area. After approximately 30 minutes, you'll reach the edge of the bush, and then embark on a steep climb up a tawa-covered spur towards the lookouts.
To access the start of the track, head 6.7 kilometers north of Pirongia. Leave Pirongia on Baffin Street, then turn right into O'Shea Road, and follow it all the way to the end.
At Mangakara Nature Walk, we invite you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Pirongia Forest Park. Whether you're a nature lover, an avid hiker, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, our tracks and lookouts offer an unforgettable experience. Come and discover the beauty of our New Zealandn wilderness today!
Photos
Location & Phone number
213 Grey Road, Pirongia, Waikato 3285, New Zealand
Reviews
"Fantastic little whanau walk to take the kids on and explore nature. Has some native trees and plants to admire and signs naming them along with native birds. Nice little stream with a spot near a bridge to have a bath in the cold fresh water."
"What an idyllic little bush stroll within easy access of Hamilton city. Specific plants are identified by markers with information and there is an interpretation board at the entry. Sheltered walking suitable for young children."
"RUNNERS ADVICE Incredibly preserved forest, unencumbered by practically any human intervention. Paths are basic but very well sign posted. I ran this trail up to the lookout when it was bone dry and although it was fun, I wouldn’t recommend it for running. There are many many tripping hazards lower down the trail and on higher elevations, light technical work and scrambling is required (which is awesome). In saying that, if you don’t mind a technical run with some stop/starts, then I would give this a try. Elevation gain per kilometer averages 150m, so it’s a challenging ascent. On the descent, some parts will require all hands on deck, where as others will challenge an adventurous runner who is looking to work on their downhill forest sprints. Next time I will run further"
"Pirongia Forest Park is amazing. Walk in a dense forest feel. Calm and quiet forest environment. Safe, clean , being with family and friends will be more enjoyable."
"Really nice and maintained track. From the carpark you get straight into the bush walk there's a bit of a descent to get down to the loop. The track is mainly gravel so walking shoes would be fine. Takes between 30 minutes to an hour to do the whole loop and back. Plenty of parking. Has a number of information boards about the area and plants and wildlife along the track."
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