This is a challenging backcountry tramp for experienced, well-equipped trampers. You need river-crossing skills, navigation skills and good fitness.

Mangapukahukahu Stream
Image: ShakyIsles |CC BY 4.0 |

Blackbridge Road to Mangapukahukahu Stream/Waipapa River junction

This track starts at the end of Blackbridge Road. There is a DOC campsite on Blackbridge Road with water and a toilet.

The track descends into the valley and follows Mangapukahukahu Steam through a gorge.

Mangapukahukahu Steam can flood quickly. Do not take this route if the river is high or if there is forecast/recent heavy rain.

At Waipapa River, cross the river to join Waiapapa River Track.

There is a deep pool at the confluence of Mangapukahukahu Stream and Waipapa River. Follow markers to a shallower crossing point.

Pukatea Ridge Track
Image: ShakyIsles | CC BY 4.0 |

Mangapukahukahu Stream/Waipapa River junction to Pukatea Ridge Track

Follow Waipapa River Track upstream beside Waipapa River. The track is narrow and can be very slippery. Watch for the orange triangles to stay on the track.

The track crosses Pukatea Stream, then becomes Pukatea Ridge Track.

Pukatea Ridge Track to Puketī Recreation Area

The track climbs a long series of steps and follows Pukatea Ridge through mature forest.

Follow Pirau Ridge Road downhill to Puketī Recreation Area. This 4WD road is shared with cyclists and work vehicles.

The road ends at Puketī Recreation Area, where there is a campsite and a hut (bookings required). There is also a 1-hour loop walk through kauri forest.

From SH1, just south of Mangamuka town:

• turn onto Ōmahuta Road
• continue onto Ōmahuta Forest Road
• turn onto Kauri Sanctuary Road
• continue onto Kauri Pā Road
• turn onto Blackbridge Road
• continue to Blackbridge Campsite.

These roads are unsealed, rough and narrow, and are not suitable for caravans or campervans. Beehives are located beside some sections of the road.

Wet weather route

This track has a section through a steep gorge and unbridged river and stream crossings. Flooding is a real risk.

There is a wet weather bypass route. This is described in the Northland Te Araroa trail notes, in the Puketī Forest (Bypass) section.

Check the Northland Region Rural Weather Forecast on MetService.

Track conditions

This is a backcountry tramping track. It is rough, muddy and slippery in places.

Skills and fitness

You need:

• River crossing skills
• Navigation skills
• Backcountry hiking and outdoors skills
• Good fitness
• To be self-sufficient and ready for delays

What to take

Pack everything on the DOC packing list, including:

• Warm and waterproof clothes
• Spare food in case you are delayed
• Emergency equipment, including a distress beacon, emergency shelter and first aid kit

Camp at DOC campsites

There are campsites at Blackbridge Road and Pūketi Recreation Area. Plan to stay at these campsites to help prevent the spread of kauri dieback.

Only camp elsewhere in emergencies, like if you are delayed by flooded rivers.

No fires

Campfires are not allowed. This helps protect the forests from wildfires.

You can use gas burners or enclosed liquid fuel stoves, but take care.

Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows

Wasps

Wasps are particularly common in summer. Carry medication if you are allergic to their stings.