Aongatete short walks
Track category
Short walk
Description
Aongatete Track, Tauranga Area
Nature Trail Loop track
Time: 15 min return
Walk up the lodge to the start of the loop tracks, located behind the ablution block. Follow the track up past a junction with the short 'nature trail' loop which branches to the right.
Short Loop Walk
Time: 1 hr return
Continue up the well-marked loop track until you reach a left-hand branch. The 'long loop' continues straight ahead. Turn left which will take around the 'short loop', a more gentle, well-graded walk.
Aongatete River Track
Time: 30 min one way
The Aongatete River may be accessed from a track which starts on the western side of the lodge and may be slippery in damp conditions. A left branch off this track, about 15 min down, leads to some attractive swimming holes and is worth exploring.
Other activities
Child/family friendly activities
Kids will enjoy the short nature trail walk which takes in some large trees including puriri, and leads in a loop back to the lodge
Swimming
The river track leads to a large swimming hole. Take care on the slippery rock track down to the river, and be aware the swimming hole is not very deep - no diving.
Getting there
The Aongatete short walks are situated within the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park at the end of Wright Road, off SH 2 between Tauranga and Katikati.
There is a carpark before the gate to the Aongatete Outdoor Education lodge and it is advisable to park here as the gate may be locked at any time.
Activities
Child/family friendly activities
Swimming
Plan and prepare
You must be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on the longer day walks. Ensure you have strong, comfortable boots, warm clothing, a good raincoat, first aid kit, food and drink, a hat and sunscreen. It is also advisable that you leave your tramping intentions with a responsible person.
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