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Nūhaka
1.4 km
1 hour 30 minutes
65 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines rolling Kiwi farmland, sweeping ocean views, and a thrilling subterranean world, the Mangaone Caves Track belongs at the very top of your list. Tucked away in the serene countryside near Nūhaka in the northern Hawke's Bay, this short but action-packed out-and-back trail is one of the region's best-kept secrets.
At just 1.4 kilometres return, it might sound like a quick stroll, but do not let the short distance fool you. With a steep hill climb to start and an adventurous, muddy cave system to explore, this 1.5-hour journey offers a brilliant, moderate challenge for families, weekend warriors, and geology fans alike. Just leave your dog at home for this one, grab a reliable head torch, and prepare to step into another world.
Your adventure begins at the edge of Mangaone Road, where you will step over the stile and straight onto private farmland. Please remember to respect the landowner's generosity by sticking strictly to the marked route, keeping an eye out for the marker poles, and leaving all farm gates exactly as you find them.
The trail wastes no time in warming up your legs. The first section is a short but undeniably steep climb up a grassy hill. You will want sturdy footwear with good grip here, especially if the grass is damp with morning dew. As you puff your way up, make sure to stop, catch your breath, and look behind you. The reward for your hard work is immediate and spectacular: a stunning panoramic view of the Hawke's Bay coastline stretching all the way out to the dramatic Māhia Peninsula on a clear day.
Once you conquer the ridge, the track levels out beautifully, crossing a gentle, grassy hilltop before descending toward a lush pocket of native bush. Hidden within this green oasis is the sinkhole entrance to the Mangaone Caves.
Leaving the bright sunshine behind, you will descend a set of steps into the cool, damp mouth of the main cavern. The cave is a massive natural gallery, measuring about 40 metres long and soaring up to 9 metres high. Natural light filters in from both ends, creating an eerie, beautiful twilight.
As you explore deeper, the terrain underfoot changes dramatically. The cave floor is notoriously muddy and slippery, and you should expect to splash through ankle-deep water, particularly if there has been recent rainfall.
Parking is available on a grassed area or a dedicated bay on the right, opposite the signpost to the start of the track on Mangaone Road. Be aware that logging trucks frequently use Mangaone Road.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
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Out and back
For the truly adventurous, the journey doesn't end on the cavern floor. Keep an eye out for two metal ladders bolted to the rock face, sitting about three metres above the ground. These lead to upper side passages. Navigating these requires a tight squeeze, a bit of climbing agility, and extreme care, as there are steep drops and narrow gaps to negotiate. It is a thrilling, hands-on caving experience that will make you feel like a true explorer.
The Mangaone Caves Track is located near Nūhaka in the Hawke's Bay region.
To get there, turn off State Highway 2 onto Mangaone Road. Be aware that this road is narrow, winding, and unsealed. It is heavily used by logging trucks, so drive slowly, keep left, and be prepared to pull over to let larger vehicles pass safely.
Drive along Mangaone Road until you spot the wooden DOC signpost marking the start of the track. Parking is available in a dedicated gravel bay or on the grassed verge on the right-hand side of the road, directly opposite the track entrance.
As you transition from the open, breezy farmland into the sheltered native bush surrounding the cave entrance, keep your eyes and ears open for some of New Zealand’s favourite forest birds.
The cheerful, chattering Fantail (pīwakawaka) is a constant companion here, often darting right up to hikers to snatch up the insects stirred up by your footsteps. You will also hear the rich, bell-like notes of the Tūī echoing through the canopy, alongside the sweet, delicate trill of the Grey Warbler (riroriro).
Look up into the puriri and tawa trees to spot the heavy, iridescent-green Kererū (native wood pigeon) feasting on berries. If you decide to visit later in the afternoon as dusk approaches, listen out for the haunting, twin-note call of the Morepork (ruru) echoing from the shadows of the cave entrance.
Best time of day: Aim to start your walk in the mid-morning or early afternoon. This ensures you have plenty of bright daylight to navigate the steep farm track and the unsealed access road safely.
This rugged landscape holds a special place in both the natural and cultural heritage of the East Coast. Geologically, the area is part of a vast limestone belt, shaped over millennia by tectonic uplift and the relentless eroding power of water.
Culturally, this land is deeply significant to the tāngata whenua (people of the land), the Ngāti Rākaipaaka iwi. To local Māori, these caves are considered sacred taonga (treasures). Visitors are asked to show the utmost respect when entering this special place. Please do not touch, climb on, or break any of the delicate limestone formations, as they take thousands of years to grow and are easily damaged by the oils on human skin. Take only photos, and leave only footprints.
After squelching through the mud and conquering the hills, you will have worked up a hearty appetite.
Head down the road to the nearby coastal township of Nūhaka, or take a short detour to the stunning Māhia Peninsula. The Māhia Beach Store is a local legend, perfect for grabbing a classic Kiwi scoop of hot chips, a cold drink, or a flat white to enjoy on the beach.
If you are heading back towards Wairoa, stop by one of the town's cosy local bakeries or cafes for a gourmet pie and a sweet treat to celebrate your subterranean expedition.
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Ninox novaeseelandiae
Native owl also known as Ruru. Named for its distinctive two-note call heard at night.
Best time: Year-round
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round