Over the Mountain
There are two options if you're looking to hike all the way across the sanctuary, the Wairere Traverse and the Over the Mountain track (OTM). Both require a high level of fitness. If you are looking to travel in one direction, please be aware there is approximately 30 minutes drive between the Northern and Southern entry points. You might want to consider our weekend shuttle service, details of which can be found on this page. Both these tracks are accessible any time of the day however for safety of the public and of our flora and fauna we do not recommend visiting after dark. Given the time it takes to complete these tracks we suggest that you don't start your walk after midday.
- The Wairere Traverse is a gravel track that goes between the Northern and Southern enclosures. Allow around 5 hours.
- The Over the Mountain track (including 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 high level of fitness. This track is steep at times and will be very muddy and slippery in wet weather. We strongly recommend ensuring that you are fully kitted out with water, food, footwear, and clothing appropriate for hiking.
Please be aware that this track traverses public, Scenic Reserve land and is not monitored by Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari. If you or any members of your group become lost or need emergency assistance, please phone 111 and ask for Police, Waikato Search and Rescue.
Over the Mountain Weekend Shuttle
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari offers a new Shuttle Service for experienced walkers wanting to traverse the Over the Mountain tracks. This pre-booked service departs Saturday and Sunday mornings from the Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari Education Centre carpark at 99 Tari Road for up to 11 Walkers. Your driver will share local knowledge and some sanctuary highlights along the way to the northern Hicks Road access to the Over the Mountain tracks. Please note - these tracks are not suitable for children under 12. PRE-BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. Minimum of two passengers required for the service to run.
Please stick to the main walking track. A huge variety of wildlife species live safely off the track and should not be disturbed.
There are toilets available at the Visitor Centre on Tari Road, outside the Marae on Hicks Road, and in the Northern Enclosure. There are not toilets available on the walk.
Whilst there is no cost associated with this walk you can help us to cover the $5000/day it costs to keep the sanctuary going by providing a donation before you head out.
Book a seat on the shuttle!
Experiences
Step through the pest-proof gate into another world where our ancient native forest towers majestically above well-maintained walking tracks.
FAQs
Interested in our Education Programme? Questions about lunch options? Find out the answers to the most frequently asked questions!
