Mangawhero Forest Walk

Loop

The track eventually reaches its highest point where it briefly crosses the Ohakune Mountain Road before descending back through the forest to complete the loop. It’s a seamless, easy-to-follow journey that packs a huge amount of natural beauty into just over an hour.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Mangawhero Forest Walk is more than just a stroll; it’s a sensory experience. Here are the highlights you shouldn't miss:

• The Ancient Giants: Take a moment to look straight up. The rimu and kahikatea here are spectacular. Seeing these 30-metre-tall titans up close is a powerful reminder of what New Zealand’s forests looked like centuries ago.
• The Volcanic Crater: Keep an eye on your surroundings as you reach the mid-point of the walk. Passing through the ancient crater is a unique geological highlight. It’s not a jagged, fiery pit anymore, but the shape of the land tells a story of massive eruptions from the distant past.
• The River Crossing: The Mangawhero River is the lifeblood of this forest. The bridge provides a perfect photo opportunity, capturing the contrast between the dark volcanic rocks and the vibrant green ferns.
• Tree Identification: Because the track is so well-signed, it’s a fantastic place to brush up on your botany. It’s rare to find such a high concentration of ancient species so easily accessible from a main road.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is incredibly straightforward. From the centre of Ohakune, head towards the "Junction" end of town and start driving up the Ohakune Mountain Road (the road that leads to the Tūroa ski field).

Just a few minutes up the road, you will see the Ohakune DOC office on your right. The trailhead and car park are located directly opposite on the left side of the road. There is ample parking available in a spacious gravel lot, which can accommodate several vehicles even during the busier summer months. You'll also find public toilets conveniently located right at the start of the track, making it an easy "pit stop" before or after your adventure.

Wildlife Spotting

The Mangawhero Forest Walk is a haven for native birdlife. Because the forest is so thick and protected, the birds often feel quite bold.

• Tūī: You’ll almost certainly hear them before you see them. Listen for their complex whistles, clicks, and chimes. They are very common year-round and can often be seen darting through the high canopy.
• Fantail (Piwakawaka): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to join you. They love to follow hikers, flitting around your feet to catch the tiny insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Kererū (NZ Wood Pigeon): Look for these large, iridescent green and white birds perched heavily on branches. You’ll often hear the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly overhead.
• Rifleman (Tītitipounamu): If you are quiet, you might spot New Zealand’s smallest bird. They are tiny, high-pitched, and move incredibly fast up and down the trunks of the trees.
• Grey Warbler (Riroriro): Their long, trilling song is the quintessential sound of the New Zealand bush.

Pro Tip: The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is at its loudest. Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, as many of the honey-eaters prefer the very tops of the rimu trees.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

This trail is truly a "track for all seasons."

• Spring & Summer: The forest is vibrant and cool, providing a perfect escape from the summer heat. This is also when you might catch the Shining Bronze Cuckoo visiting.
• Autumn: The air turns crisp, and the forest floor is often damp and earthy-smelling. The light filtering through the trees at this time of year is golden and soft — perfect for photography.
• Winter: While it can get chilly, the forest remains a deep, defiant green. If you’re lucky, you might even see a dusting of snow on the ferns after a heavy southern blast, making it feel like a true winter wonderland.

• What to wear: Even though it’s an "easy" walk, the ground can be muddy after rain. Sturdy sneakers or walking shoes are recommended.
• Weather: This is a mountain environment. Even if it's sunny in Ohakune town, it can be showery at the forest edge. The canopy provides great shelter, but always carry a light rain jacket.
• Timing: Since the loop takes about 1.25 hours, it’s a great "filler" activity. Start at 10:00 AM to finish just in time for lunch in town.
• Families: This walk is highly kid-friendly. The distance is manageable for little legs, and the informative signs keep them engaged. Note that it is not dog-friendly, as it is within a National Park where dogs are generally prohibited to protect native wildlife.

Local & Regional Context

Walking the Mangawhero trail isn't just about the trees; it’s about the land. This area sits within the Tongariro National Park, a dual World Heritage site recognised for both its spectacular volcanic peaks and its deep cultural significance to Māori.

For the local iwi (tribes), Ngāti Rangi and Ngāti Tūwharetoa, the mountains are ancestors. The Mangawhero River (meaning "red-coloured water") gets its name from the way the water can sometimes appear reddish due to the minerals and volcanic ash it carries from the mountain.

The forest you are walking through is a remnant of the vast podocarp forests that once covered much of the central North Island. Today, it stands as a testament to New Zealand's conservation efforts, offering a glimpse into an ecosystem that has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years.

After the Walk

Once you’ve completed the loop and filled your lungs with that fresh mountain air, you’ll likely be ready for some refreshments. Ohakune has a fantastic cafe and pub culture, especially near the "Junction" area close to the trailhead.

• The Powderkeg Restaurant & Bar (0.5km away): An absolute Ohakune institution. Located at the Powderhorn Chateau, it has a warm, wood-fire, après-ski vibe. It’s the perfect place for a hearty meal or a craft beer by the fire.
• CYCLEDELIC Cafe & Bar (0.7km away): If you’re after a caffeine fix, this is the spot. It’s quirky, vibrant, and very welcoming to hikers and bikers. Their breakfast menu is top-tier.
• Ohakune Carrot Cafe & Restaurant (2km away): Head back into the main township for a visit here. It’s family-friendly, spacious, and right next to the famous giant carrot park—great if the kids still have some energy to burn off on the playground!

The Mangawhero Forest Walk is a short journey that leaves a long-lasting impression. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding experiences aren't at the top of the mountain, but tucked away in the quiet, ancient green world at its feet.

700m away

A quirky and vibrant cafe with a cycling theme, offering great coffee, delicious breakfast and lunch options, and a relaxed, friendly vibe. A favourite among locals and visitors.