Mangahao Makahika Track

Point to point

From the streams, the track begins its steady ascent. You’ll move through areas of regenerating mānuka—a sign of the land’s history as former farmland—before hitting the Makahika Ridge. This is the literal high point of your day, reaching elevations of up to 671 metres. Walking along the spine of the ridge, the forest occasionally opens up to reveal breathtaking vistas. To the west, you can trace the line of the Mangaore Stream, and on a clear day, the silhouette of Kāpiti Island sits proudly on the horizon. If you’re really lucky and the air is crisp, you might even spot the jagged peaks of the South Island across the Cook Strait.

After about three to four hours, you’ll reach the Horowhenua Lookout. It’s a perfect spot for a well-earned lunch, complete with seating and panoramic views across the Manawatū plains and Shannon. From here, the track begins its 350-metre descent. You’ll pass the Kāpiti Viewpoint (also known as Archey’s Lookout) before joining the historic Makahika tramline. This part of the walk feels like stepping back in history, as you follow the benched track once used for logging. The final stretch involves several crossings of the Makahika Stream and a poled route through private farmland before you emerge at the Poulton Drive car park, likely tired, perhaps a bit muddy, but certainly invigorated.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Mangahao Makahika Track is packed with standout features that make the seven-hour effort feel like a privilege:

• The Ancient Rimu: Seeing these massive trees up close is a humbling experience. They provide a glimpse into what the entire region looked like before human intervention.
• Horowhenua Lookout: This is the "hero" shot of the hike. The view stretches across the patchwork quilt of the Horowhenua region all the way to the coast.
• The Historic Tramline: For history buffs, the tramline formation is fascinating. You can still see the cuttings and the "bench" where tracks once laid, transporting timber out of these rugged hills.
• Kāpiti Island Vistas: There is something magical about seeing the ocean from the middle of a forest range. The sight of Kāpiti Island floating on the Tasman Sea is a constant motivator during the ridge walk.
• The Challenge: Let’s be honest—the highlight for many is the sense of achievement. Successfully navigating a "hard" rated Tararua track is a badge of honour for any Kiwi tramper.

Getting There

This is a point-to-point track, so logistics require a bit of planning.

Northern Trailhead (Start): From Shannon, follow Mangahao Road into the hills. You’ll pass the Tararua Forest Park sign; continue for another 400 metres to find a small parking area where the track begins.

Southern Trailhead (Finish): The track ends at the Poulton Drive car park, which is accessed via Gladstone Road, just south of Levin.

Transport Tips: Unless you have two cars and a very helpful friend to do a key swap, you might need a shuttle. The Shannon Progressive Association (contactable via the folks at Owlcatraz in Shannon) can often help arrange transport or vehicle drop-offs, which makes the logistics of this point-to-point walk much easier.

Wildlife Spotting

The Tararuas are a stronghold for native birdlife, and the Mangahao Makahika Track is no exception. Keep your ears open for the melodic, bell-like notes of the bellbird (korimako) and the complex, soulful song of the tūī.

The kererū (New Zealand pigeon) is a common sight here; you’ll often hear them before you see them, thanks to the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly between fruit-bearing trees. Fantails (pīwakawaka) will likely follow you along the trail, flitting about to catch the insects your boots stir up from the leaf litter.

If you are quiet and observant, you might spot the petite tomtit or the social whitehead. While rare, the raucous call of the kākā (forest parrot) has been known to echo through these valleys—so keep your eyes on the canopy!

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Mangahao Makahika Track is open year-round, but your experience will change dramatically with the seasons.

• Spring & Summer: These are the most popular times. The days are longer, giving you plenty of "buffer time" for the 7-hour trek. The stream crossings are also generally lower and more refreshing.
• Autumn: This is often the most stable weather period in the Tararuas. The air is crisp, providing the best clarity for those views out to the South Island.
• Winter: Only for the well-prepared. The track can be very muddy, and the Tararua weather is notorious for turning nasty. Snow on the higher ridges is possible, and the stream levels can rise rapidly after rain.

• Start Early: Aim to be on the trail by 8:00 AM. This gives you plenty of daylight and allows you to take your time at the lookouts.
• Footwear: Leave the sneakers at home. You need sturdy, waterproof tramping boots with good ankle support to handle the roots and mud.
• Water & Food: There is no treated water on the track. Treat the water from the streams or carry at least 2-3 litres with you. Pack high-energy snacks—you'll be burning a lot of fuel on that 635m climb!
• Layer Up: Even on a warm day, the ridge can be windy and cold. Bring a thermal base layer and a high-quality waterproof jacket.
• Dogs: Good news! This track is dog-friendly, provided your furry friend is fit enough for a 7-hour mountain mission.

Local & Regional Context

The area around Shannon and the Makahika valley is steeped in history. For Māori, the Tararua Range is a place of great spiritual significance, often associated with stories of the explorer Hau and the naming of the regional rivers.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, this area became a hub for the timber industry. The very path you walk on follows parts of the old tramlines used to haul massive logs out of the bush to the sawmills. The site of a former sawmill near the Poulton Drive end serves as a silent reminder of the hardy workers who once lived and toiled in these dense forests.

Today, the track is a symbol of conservation and recreation, maintained by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and cherished by the Te Araroa community. It represents the successful transition of the land from industrial logging back to a regenerating wilderness that we can all enjoy.

After the Walk

After seven hours on your feet, you’ll be dreaming of a cold drink and a hearty meal. Head back into Shannon to refuel.

• The Horseman’s Café: A local favourite with a relaxed vibe. Their cabinet is usually stocked with great pies and cakes—exactly what you need after a big tramp.
• Shannon 4 Square: If you’re just after a quick ice cream or a cold Gatorade for the drive home, the local shop is the place to go.
• Levin Cafes: If you’re heading south from the Poulton Drive end, the town of Levin is just a short drive away and offers a wide range of pubs and cafes to satisfy any post-hike craving.

The Mangahao Makahika Track is more than just a trail; it’s a physical challenge that connects you to the history and the heart of the Horowhenua. It’s tough, it’s muddy, and it’s absolutely spectacular. See you out there!