This track takes approximately 9-10 hours to complete, and the terrain is varied.

Starting at SH1, the first 2 hours of the track climbs steadily through pristine podocarp forest. The trees are draped with moss.

The track then travels along an undulating saddle and offers good views to the west coast and the north. The track can be muddy in places.

For the last 2 hours, the track winds downhill, through bush and onto the old Takahue Saddle Road.

The Mangamuka Tramping Track is located south of Kaitaia. You can access the track from SH1, at the Mangamuka Gorge summit, or on State Highway 12, 12 km west of Kaitaia, off Takahue Saddle Road.

Note: Exits at both Mangamuka Gorge Summit and Takahue Saddle Road require transport back to Kaitaia. Arrange this before you go, as there is no cell phone reception on the track.

Note: The Mangamuka Summit Track (between the Mangamuka Track and SH1) is closed while work is being undertaken on SH1.

Expect a rough backcountry track, with frequent slips, damage and fallen trees

Mangamuka Track is a backcountry tramping track. The track surface is rough and it is not often maintained – the track is best suited to experienced trampers who have good navigational skills.

There are frequent slips, slumps in the track and fallen trees, particularly after rain or high wind. You will need to climb around or over these, there may not be marked diversions.

The track is best in summer

This track becomes extremely slippery, wet and muddy in winter and following heavy rain. We recommended only walking this track in summer.

This is a remote track – pack well, including a distress beacon

There is no mobile coverage along the track, so pack a distress beacon.

Pack to be self-sufficient and ready for an unplanned night out. This means packing plenty of warm and waterproof clothes, an emergency shelter and extra food. Check these gear lists to know what to take with you.

No camping and no fires

Fires put wildlife at risk, please respect the fire ban.