Last updated November 2026
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed the Bell Track as closed: “These tracks are closed due to track damage from a severe weather event in February 2026: Bell Track, Kaniwhaniwha: Kahikatea tree, Mahaukura Track, Wharauroa Track. This is a long-term alert.” Check DOC before planning a trip.
When open, the track climbs from the Kaniwhaniwha car park on Limeworks Loop Road, about 26 km from Hamilton, via the Nikau Walk to the Cone and Pāhautea Hut near the summit of Mount Pirongia.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an advanced tramping track, 15.2 km one way and 6 to 10 hours. DOC suggests combining it with the Tahuanui Track for an overnight circuit. Dogs are not allowed.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Bell Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Kaniwhaniwha car park, Limeworks Loop Road (via the Nikau Walk)
- Distance from the city
- About 26 km from Hamilton
- Walking time
- 6–10 hr
- Track length
- 15.2 km one way
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Huts
- Pāhautea Hut and Pāhautea Hut Campsite (DOC, bookings required)
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Closed when checked on 18 October 2026 (track damage from a severe weather event in February 2026; long-term alert). Check DOC for reopening.
- 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 Bell Track
The route begins on the Nikau Walk and continues onto the Bell Track past the Kaniwhaniwha Caves. It crosses a bridge near the big kahikatea and climbs a spur to a series of clearings.
The last clearing, signposted as the halfway point, has a small stream nearby and DOC says it makes a good campsite.
From there the track becomes quite muddy and follows the ridge to the Cone, the second-highest point on the mountain, and on to Pāhautea Hut and campsite. The summit of Pirongia is another 30 minutes beyond.
DOC notes that Bell Track and Tahuanui Track do not need climbing chains, so in normal times they are the alternative for trampers less confident on very rough ground.
Track Status
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC’s alert read: “These tracks are closed due to track damage from a severe weather event in February 2026: Bell Track, Kaniwhaniwha: Kahikatea tree, Mahaukura Track, Wharauroa Track. This is a long-term alert.” It was last reviewed on 6 October 2026. Check the DOC page for updates before you go.
Pāhautea Hut and Campsite
Pāhautea Hut is a standard 20-bunk DOC hut with mattresses, non-flush toilets and tap water that is not treated (boil before use). Pāhautea Hut Campsite has 7 tent sites, non-flush toilets and tap water. DOC lists bookings as required for both.
Track Conditions and Safety
When the track reopens, a good level of fitness is required. The high-level tracks follow steep-sided ridges, water is hard to find in summer, and the tracks can be very muddy after rain. Pack warm clothing, a raincoat, a torch and spare batteries, check the Pirongia weather forecast, use Plan My Walk, and tell someone your plans.
Getting There
From Hamilton, take State Highway 23 to Whatawhata. Turn left onto Te Pahu Road after the bridge over the Waipā River. Limeworks Loop Road is about 10.6 km along on the right, and the track is reached via the Nikau Walk from the Kaniwhaniwha car park.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Bell Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Pāhautea Hut: hut facilities and booking information.
Plan My Walk (NZ Mountain Safety Council): plan your trip, check gear and share your intentions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bell Track open?
Not when we checked on 18 October 2026. DOC had closed it after track damage from a severe weather event in February 2026, under a long-term alert. Check DOC for updates.
How long does it take?
DOC gives 6 to 10 hours for the 15.2 km one-way track.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track. It does not need climbing chains, but it is long and muddy in places.
Where does it start?
Via the Nikau Walk from the Kaniwhaniwha car park on Limeworks Loop Road.
Do I need to book Pāhautea Hut?
Yes. DOC lists bookings as required for the hut and campsite.
Can I take my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed.
What is the Cone?
The second-highest point on Mount Pirongia, on the ridge before Pāhautea Hut.
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.