The northern enclosure located at Hicks Road is able to be accessed by public. Parking for this area is located directly in front of Maungatautari marae at the base of the mountain. Follow signs and do not park on private property near the entrance.
The entrance is surrounded by private farmland, so please use the available track and keep to the path. The path to the northern enclosure is roughly 1.5km and includes some steep areas.
Dog's are not permitted in the sanctuary at any time to protect the native species living within the sanctuary.
There are outdoor (long-drop) toilets available which are not maintained daily.
The loop track within the northern enclosure is roughly 1.5km and takes an estimated 35 minutes to complete the track. Perfect for a day trip in Waipā.
The Maungatautari Mountain track (Te Raki track and Te Tonga track) takes the historic route to Pukeatua Peak, from Hicks Road on the northern side to Pukeatua on the south. Allow 5-6 hours. Walkers will enjoy wonderful views of the forest and lush Waikato landscape from the two southern peaks.
Caution: The ‘Over the Mountain’ track is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. This track is suitable for experienced hikers and adventurous walkers with a good level of fitness. This track is steep at times and will be very muddy and slippery in wet weather. This walk is available for independent walkers.
Toilets: There are no toilet facilities on the northern side of the mountain (Hicks Road). Bioloo composting toilet facilities are available outside the on the southern side (Tari Road, Pukeatua).
Visitor Centre (Manu Tioriori): Limited snacks, cold drinks, tea, coffee and a small selection of ice creams are available for purchase at the between 9am and 4:00pm.
Please remember to check the weather before you head off on your tramp.
Download the map of the mountain
*Please take care on the Wairere Traverse on the way up to (and down from) the Saddle. It can be slippery in some places and there may be heavy machinery operating while we upgrade the track.
Ultra-marathon runners may like to warm up on the Wairere Traverse Over the Mountain Track that is a gravel all-weather track heading right the way over Maungatautari.
Please note that there is not a visitors centre on the northern side of Maungatautari. You will need to venture back over the mountain to retrieve your vehicle.
Link to other descriptions of the tracks:
http://nztramper.com/maungatautari-peak-over-the-mountain-track/