Mangaone Caves Track

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.

Highlights & Must-See Features

• The Limestone Formations: Over thousands of years, dripping, mineral-rich water has sculpted a subterranean wonderland inside the cave. Look out for delicate stalactites hanging from the ceiling, sturdy stalagmites rising from the floor, and glittering, intricate calcite flowstone hugging the walls.
• Coastal Panoramas: The view from the top of the initial farm hill is worth the climb alone. On a blue-sky day, the contrast between the deep blue Pacific Ocean, the green hills, and the distant silhouette of the Māhia Peninsula is a photographer's dream.
• The Side Passages: If you have the confidence, climbing the ladders to squeeze through the upper chambers offers an authentic, raw caving experience that is hard to find on most public walking tracks.

Getting There

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.

Wildlife Spotting

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.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Summer and Autumn generally offer drier farm tracks and less water on the cave floor, making the walk cleaner and easier.
• Winter and Spring bring lush green grass and dramatic coastal skies, but the cave will be significantly wetter, muddier, and colder.

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.

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with excellent tread are non-negotiable. Your sneakers will get caked in mud and soaked inside the cave.
• Lighting: A high-quality head torch is absolutely essential. Do not rely on your smartphone light—you will need both hands free to climb the ladders and hold onto the handrails. Pack spare batteries just in case.
• Protection: A lightweight climbing helmet or hard hat is a smart addition to protect your head from low-hanging rock ceilings in the side passages.
• Clothing: Pack a warm jacket (caves are naturally chilly, even in summer) and a change of clean clothes and shoes to leave in the car for the drive home.

Local & Regional Context

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 the Walk

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.