Expect a shared use track with uneven surfaces

The Ohakune Old Coach Road is a walking track and an Intermediate: Grade 3 mountain biking trail. Expect to encounter walkers and cyclists going in both directions, so go slowly on blind corners and respect other track users.

Some sections of the track are gravel, some are historic cobblestones (these are bumpy to ride over). There are steep sections, mud, narrow bits of track and tight corners. If you are biking, you will need a mountain bike (or mountain e-bike) in good working order – a road bike isn’t suitable for this track.

Take extra care - you are biking in a remote area

Take extra care when biking the uneven sections of track. If you get hurt, help can take a long time to reach you as access is difficult.

In the event of an emergency, track markers will help emergency services locate you. There are KM markers placed along the track at every kilometre starting with KM 0 at the Ohakune Railway Station and KM 15 at Horopito. Should you have an accident, report the nearest KM marker number as reference of your location in your 111 call. 

Carry a PLB and a charged mobile phone. Mobile phone reception is available on most sections (except for gullies) of the track.

Be careful around working railway lines and historic viaducts

Take great care and watch for trains when crossing the railway line at Taonui.

As the track passes the main trunk line, be conscious of rail traffic and do not enter the railway corridor. Unless you have a valid permit from KiwiRail, walking on or beside the tracks is trespassing and is extremely dangerous.

One of the highlights of the track is seeing the historic railway tunnels and viaducts. The Hapuawhenua Viaduct is open and can be crossed if you wish, but the other historic viaducts (Taonui and Haeremaere) are derelict and dangerous – do not climb on them. Pack a torch for exploring the curved railway tunnel at Hapuawhenua.

Take rubbish with you, toilet available at Hapuawhenua

The track weaves through Tongariro National Park and there are no bins on site. Take all your rubbish away with you.

Toilets are available at the Hapuawhenua Viaduct, near the picnic area.