Last updated November 2026
The Kakepuku Track climbs through bush in Kakepuku Historic Reserve to the summit of Kakepuku, an old volcano, where a lookout tower tops the 449 m peak. It starts off Kakepuku Mountain Road, about 31 km from Hamilton.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an advanced tramping track, 7.2 km and 2 to 3 hours return via the same track. Most of the climb follows an old farm road at an easy gradient, but DOC warns it can get very muddy and slippery in winter and wet spells. Dogs are not allowed.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Kakepuku Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Car park off Kakepuku Mountain Road
- Distance from the city
- About 31 km from Hamilton
- Walking time
- 2–3 hr return
- Track length
- 7.2 km return via the same track
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Track type
- Walking 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 Kakepuku Track
From the car park, the track to the summit follows an old farm road at an easy gradient. DOC notes it replaces an older track that has been closed.
Near the top, the route follows a ridge through a fine remnant of original forest inside the ancient crater, then on to the summit at 449 m. A few last steps lead to the top of the lookout tower.
The reserve’s forest includes tawa, rewarewa, kohekohe, mangeao and pukatea. Listen for tūī and kererū, and look out for North Island robins, 30 of which were released here in 1999.
With an advanced grade and 2 to 3 hours return, it makes a half-day outing with a summit view for walkers with some fitness.
Track Conditions
DOC says the track can get very muddy and slippery in winter and during long periods of rain, so take care and wear footwear with good grip. Check DOC before you go, use Plan My Walk, and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Kakepuku 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 Kakepuku Track?
DOC gives 7.2 km and 2 to 3 hours return via the same track.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track, although much of it follows an old farm road at an easy gradient.
How high is Kakepuku?
DOC gives the summit as 449 m, with a lookout tower on top.
Can I take my dog?
No. DOC says dogs are prohibited on Waikato area tracks except certified guide dogs and permitted hunting dogs.
Where does it start?
At the car park off Kakepuku Mountain Road.
What birds might I see?
Tūī, kererū and North Island robins.
Is it muddy?
It can be very muddy and slippery in winter and after long periods of rain.
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.