Kakepuku Track

Loop

This trail is rated as moderate. While the track is exceptionally well-maintained, the sheer number of stairs and a total elevation gain of 562m mean you will need a reasonable level of fitness. The entire loop takes about 2.5 hours to complete. It is a wonderfully kid-friendly walk for active youngsters who will love the challenge of counting the steps and climbing the summit tower, but please note that the track is not dog-friendly to protect the local wildlife.

Highlights & Must-See Features

• The Summit Lookout Tower: Offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Waikato basin, this is the ultimate spot for photos.
• The Carved Pā Entrance: A beautiful, hand-carved archway that welcomes you to the sacred summit area and connects you to the mana (prestige) of the mountain.
• The Ancient Terraces: Walk directly over the historical pā embankments on the conservation boardwalk, witnessing the incredible earthworks constructed by Māori ancestors centuries ago.
• The Ponga Canopy: The lower sections of the forest offer a stunning showcase of New Zealand’s iconic silver ferns, creating a lush, emerald-green tunnel.

Getting There

The trailhead is located just a 10-to-15-minute drive south of Te Awamutu. From Te Awamutu, follow Ohaupo Road/State Highway 3, turn onto Kakepuku Road, and follow it to the very end.

You will find a large, free parking area at the base of the mountain, marking the official start of the track. A public toilet is available at the car park, so make sure to use it before you head up, as there are no facilities on the mountain itself.

Wildlife Spotting

Thanks to dedicated local conservation efforts, Kakepuku Mountain is a thriving haven for native birdlife. As you walk, turn off your music and listen closely to the beautiful forest symphony.

The melodic, bell-like calls of the tūī and the soft, rhythmic "whoosh-whoosh" of the heavy kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon) are common year-round. You will also likely hear the friendly chatter of the pīwakawaka (fantail) and the delicate, high-pitched song of the riroriro (grey warbler) flitting through the undergrowth.

If you are quiet and keep a watchful eye on the forest floor, you might get an occasional visit from a curious toutouwai (North Island robin), known for hopping close to hikers to snatch up insects stirred up by muddy boots. If you are incredibly lucky, look up toward the thermal updrafts near the summit tower—the rare kārearea (New Zealand falcon) is occasionally spotted soaring high above the canopy.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Kakepuku Track is a fantastic option in Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter alike, with each season bringing its own unique charm:

• Spring & Summer: The forest is vibrant and alive with birdsong. However, the lower farmland section has very little shade, so it can get incredibly hot. Always pack plenty of water, wear a hat, and apply high-SPF sunscreen before you set off.
• Autumn & Winter: The cooler air makes the steep stair climb much more comfortable, and winter often brings crisp, clear days with unmatched visibility to the central North Island volcanoes. Be aware that the track can become muddy and slippery after rain, so sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good grip are highly recommended.

Best time to start: Aim for an early morning start. Not only will you beat the midday heat during the warmer months, but you will also secure a parking spot and enjoy the best of the morning birdsong.

Local & Regional Context

To the local iwi (tribes) of Ngāti Apakura and Ngāti Maniapoto, Kakepuku-o-Kahu (the full Māori name of the mountain) is a deeply sacred ancestor. Māori legend tells of Kakepuku, a male mountain who travelled from the volcanic plateau of the central North Island. He fell in love with Kawa, a beautiful female mountain nearby, fought off rival mountains for her affection, and decided to stand beside her forever.

The mountain’s strategic heights made it a perfect location for a fortified pā (settlement). As you walk the summit loop, you are walking through a living historic monument. The defensive terraces (maioro), food storage pits, and living areas created by the early inhabitants are still visible under the forest cover.

Today, the mountain is the focus of the Kakepuku Mountain Conservation Project. Intensive pest control has allowed the native forest to regenerate beautifully, paving the way for the successful reintroduction of native species.

After the Walk

After conquering those 400-plus stairs, you will definitely have worked up an appetite! Head back into Te Awamutu to refuel:

• Storyteller Eatery & Bar: Located in the heart of Te Awamutu, this is a local favourite for a reason. They serve exceptional coffee, incredible brunch options, and have a fantastic, relaxed atmosphere to sit back and chat about your hike.
• The Redoubt Bar and Eatery: If you are craving a hearty post-hike meal, this classic Kiwi pub offers fantastic burgers, steak sandwiches, and a great selection of cold drinks on tap to reward your efforts.