Last updated November 2026
The Hapuakohe Walkway traverses the length of the Hapuakohe Range, about 45 km from Hamilton. The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an advanced tramping track, 23 km and 1 to 2 days one way, and says it is suitable for experienced trampers only because of steep, challenging terrain.
Ohinewai Road splits it into a northern and a southern section, each of which can be walked in a day. Along the way are views over the Hauraki Plains and Gulf, much of the Waikato and the hill country south of Auckland. You will need to arrange drop-offs and pick-ups.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Hapuakohe Walkway on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- End of North Road, off State Highway 27 near Mangatarata (northern end)
- Finish
- End of Mangapiko Valley Road, near Waiterimu (southern end)
- Distance from the city
- About 45 km from Hamilton
- Walking time
- 1–2 days one way (northern section 8 hr; southern section 6 hr)
- Track length
- 23 km one way (13.3 km north, 9.7 km south)
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track
- Dogs
- Dogs with a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes only
- Track type
- Tramping track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Hapuakohe Walkway
Northern section: North Road to Ohinewai Road (8 hr, 13.3 km)
The track starts at a gate with a DOC sign at the end of North Road, where there is parking. Orange DOC marker posts lead across private land, then the track leaves the farm road and climbs steeply through a private pine plantation to the bush edge. Once in the bush it is well marked.
There are two lookouts. The first, about 1 hr 30 min in, is a grassy clearing at 300 m. The second, at about 3 hours and 400 m, has views to the Huntly power station, Mt Te Aroha and the Hauraki Plains. The bush here is mostly kohekohe and large pūriri.
Southern section: Ohinewai Road to Mangapiko Valley Road (6 hr, 9.7 km)
From the south side of Ohinewai Road, the track drops steeply to a small stream, then climbs steeply to the trig through regenerating bush of akeake, rewarewa, heketara, rimu, tōtara and mānuka. DOC describes the view from the trig as exceptional.
The track sidles along a ridge to Pukeitionga Station (488 m), then descends to the Mangapiko Valley Scenic Reserve through a canopy of tawa, kohekohe, pigeonwood and pukatea. This part crosses private land, so stick to the marked route.
Transport and Access
DOC says there is no established parking area on Ohinewai Road, so arrange a drop-off or pick-up there. North Road has parking at the road end. At Mangapiko Valley Road there is limited parking in a paddock at the end of the road; close the gate behind you.
To reach North Road, take State Highway 27 from Mangatarata towards Matamata and Tirau, take the first right onto North Road and follow it 3 km to the end.
For Ohinewai Road, head south on State Highway 27 from Kaihere, turn right onto Ohinewai Road and follow it about 5 km; the track crosses at a winding gravel section. For Mangapiko Valley Road, head south-east from Waiterimu for about 6 km to the end of the road.
Track Conditions and Safety
DOC says the track is for experienced trampers only, and it can be very slippery in wet weather. The walkway passes next to or through the Matahuru and Mangapiko Valley scenic reserve hunting areas, so permitted hunters may be using it. Check DOC before you go, use Plan My Walk, and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Hapuakohe Walkway: 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 Hapuakohe Walkway?
DOC gives 23 km one way over 1 to 2 days: 13.3 km (8 hours) for the northern section and 9.7 km (6 hours) for the southern section.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track, suitable for experienced trampers only because of steep, challenging terrain.
Can I walk just one section?
Yes. Ohinewai Road splits the walkway, and each section can be done in a day.
Where can I park?
At the end of North Road, or in limited paddock parking at the end of Mangapiko Valley Road. There is no established parking on Ohinewai Road.
Can I take my dog?
Only with a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes.
What views will I get?
DOC lists the Hauraki Plains and Gulf, large areas of the Waikato, Mt Te Aroha, the Huntly power station and hill country south of Auckland.
Are there hunters on the track?
Possibly. The walkway passes hunting areas in the Matahuru and Mangapiko Valley scenic reserves.
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.