Last updated November 2026
The Te Tapui Loop Track follows the bush up to the summit of Te Tapui Scenic Reserve, where a lookout tower gives great views across to the Kaimai Range and the Firth of Thames. Access is from Piakonui Road, between Morrinsville and Matamata, about 30 km from Hamilton.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an advanced tramping track, a 4 km loop taking 3 to 4 hours. DOC recommends walking it anti-clockwise: up the steeper side and down the gentler one. Dogs are not allowed.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Te Tapui Loop Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Car park on Piakonui Road, west side of the reserve
- Distance from the city
- About 30 km from Hamilton
- Walking time
- 3–4 hr
- Track length
- 4 km loop
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Track type
- Tramping track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Te Tapui Loop Track
From the car park the track heads a short way into the bush before splitting in two.
The right-hand track is shorter but involves a steady climb to the summit and lookout tower. The left-hand track is gentler but quite a bit longer. DOC recommends an anti-clockwise loop, taking the steeper option up and the easier option down.
At the top, the lookout tower gives great views across to the Kaimai Range and the Firth of Thames.
The loop suits fit walkers and trampers who want a solid half-day climb within reach of Hamilton, Morrinsville and Matamata.
Getting There
DOC’s directions: from Morrinsville, Piakonui Road is off Paratu Road, which leaves Morrinsville-Walton Road. From Matamata, Piakonui Road is off Piakoiti Road, which leaves Morgan Road. The walking track is reached from the west side of the reserve on Piakonui Road.
Track Conditions and Safety
This is an advanced tramping track with a sustained climb. Carry water, warm layers and a raincoat, check DOC before you go, use Plan My Walk, and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Te Tapui Loop Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Plan My Walk (NZ Mountain Safety Council): plan your trip, check gear and share your intentions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Te Tapui Loop Track?
DOC gives a 4 km loop taking 3 to 4 hours.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track, with a steady climb to the summit.
Which way should I walk it?
DOC recommends anti-clockwise: the shorter, steeper right-hand track up and the longer, gentler left-hand track down.
Is there a lookout?
Yes. A lookout tower at the summit has views across to the Kaimai Range and the Firth of Thames.
Can I take my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed.
Where does it start?
On Piakonui Road, on the west side of the reserve, reached from Morrinsville or Matamata.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.