Last updated November 2026
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed the Mahaukura 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 Grey Road car park in Pirongia Forest Park, about 26 km from Hamilton, past Wharauroa Lookout and Mahaukura Lookout towards the summit of Mount Pirongia. The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an advanced tramping track, 9 km and 4 to 6 hours one way. Dogs are not allowed.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Mahaukura Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Grey Road car park, off Hodgson Road and Te Pahu Road
- Distance from the city
- About 26 km from Hamilton
- Walking time
- 4–6 hr one way
- Track length
- 9 km one way
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Huts
- Pāhautea Hut (DOC hut) near the summit
- 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 Mahaukura Track
DOC describes the track’s first highlight, Wharauroa Lookout (850 m), as having one of the best views from Mount Pirongia of Hamilton, Te Awamutu and the surrounding landscape.
About 30 minutes further on, Mahaukura Lookout (902 m) looks south towards the King Country. Between the two, the track undulates over small peaks and is uneven underfoot.
From Mahaukura, the track descends steeply before climbing again towards the Pirongia summit viewing tower, with climbing chains on the difficult parts. It can also be reached from O’Shea Road via the Wharauroa Track, which was also closed when we checked on 18 October 2026.
DOC lists a popular 8 to 11 hour, 17 km round trip for people staying at Pāhautea Hut: up the Tirohanga Track and back down the Mahaukura Track to Grey Road. That circuit is not possible while this track is closed.
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.
Track Conditions and Safety
When the track reopens, expect steep and challenging sections: DOC says you will scramble up rocky ridges, clamber over boulders and use chains, with some steep drops near the track.
A good level of fitness is required, water is hard to find in summer, and the tracks can be very muddy after rain. Pack warm clothes, a raincoat, a torch and spare batteries. Use Plan My Walk and tell someone your plans.
Getting There
The track starts 11 km north of Pirongia. 5.5 km north of Pirongia, turn off State Highway 39 onto Te Pahu Road, take the first left into Hodgson Road, then turn left into Grey Road and follow it to the end.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Mahaukura 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: Pirongia Forest Park: open tracks, huts and current alerts for the forest park.
Plan My Walk (NZ Mountain Safety Council): plan your trip, check gear and share your intentions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mahaukura 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 4 to 6 hours one way for the 9 km track.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track, with uneven ground, rocky scrambles and chains.
What are the lookouts?
Wharauroa Lookout (850 m), with views of Hamilton and Te Awamutu, and Mahaukura Lookout (902 m), looking south to the King Country.
Can I take my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed.
Where does it start?
At the Grey Road car park, 11 km north of Pirongia.
What can I walk instead?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC’s alert did not list the Tirohanga or Ruapane tracks as closed. Check DOC for current options.
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.