Motu Trails - Pākihi Track

Point to point

Because this is a 20.3km walk taking roughly 6.5 hours, it is a significant day out. It is important to note that while your four-legged friends are welcome (dogs are allowed), the track is not recommended for young children due to the distance, the narrow sections, and those aforementioned steep drop-offs.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Pākihi Track is a photographer’s dream, but there are a few specific spots you’ll want to keep your camera ready for:

• The 32-metre Suspension Bridge: This is the undisputed star of the show. Spanning high over the Pākihi Stream, it offers a dizzying and beautiful perspective of the water below. If you look closely near the modern bridge, you can still see the remnants of the original bridge footings from 1913.
• Historical Hand-Cut Sections: Keep an eye out for the sections of the track that were hand-cut through the ridge-tops over a century ago. The marks of the picks and shovels used by early settlers in 1906 are still visible in the rock, serving as a silent tribute to the ingenuity of the pioneers who built this stock route.
• The Pākihi Hut: Even if you aren't staying the night, the hut is a great place to experience that "backcountry" vibe. It’s a basic, rustic shelter that feels miles away from modern civilisation.
• Pristine Waterfalls: In the lower half of the track, the side streams create dozens of miniature waterfalls. After rain, these become vibrant, rushing features that line the cliffside of the trail.

Getting There

Logistics are the most important part of planning a trip to the Pākihi Track because it is a point-to-point trail.

The Upper Entrance (Motu Road): The trail starts high up on Motu Road. This is a remote gravel road, and the trailhead has a small shelter and a car park. Most walkers arrange a shuttle to drop them off here so they can walk "down" to their car at the other end.

The Lower Entrance (Pākihi Road): The northern end of the track is at the end of Pākihi Road, about 25km (a 33-minute drive) from Ōpōtiki. The road is unsealed but generally well-maintained. There is ample parking here and basic toilet facilities.

Because the two ends are so far apart by road, we highly recommend booking a shuttle through Motu Trails Hire & Shuttle in Ōpōtiki. They can drop you at the top, allowing you to walk back to your vehicle at the Pākihi Road end.

Wildlife Spotting

The Urutawa Forest is a haven for native birdlife. Because the forest is so dense and remote, the bird song can be quite deafening at times—in the best way possible!

• Kererū (NZ Pigeon): You will almost certainly see or hear these heavy-set birds. Listen for the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly between the tawa trees.
• Tūī: Look for these in the canopy; their metallic blue-green feathers and white throat tufts are easy to spot, even if their complex songs are sometimes mistaken for R2-D2.
• Toutouwai (North Island Robin): These friendly little birds are very curious. If you stop for a snack, don't be surprised if one hops right up to your boots to see if you've stirred up any insects.
• Whio (Blue Duck): If you are very lucky, you might spot a whio in the faster-flowing sections of the Pākihi Stream. They are rare and well-camouflaged against the grey rocks, so keep a sharp eye out.
• Kārearea (NZ Falcon): Occasionally, you might see a falcon soaring above the ridges. They are much faster and more aggressive in flight than the common harrier hawk.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring: The forest is at its most vibrant, and the waterfalls are usually pumping.
• Summer: The deep canopy provides excellent shade, making it a cool escape from the East Coast heat.
• Autumn: The air is crisp and clear, often providing the best visibility for views across the ridges.
• Winter: The forest becomes moody and atmospheric, though the track can be slippery and cold, so good gear is essential.

• Start Early: With a 6.5-hour walking time, you want to hit the trail by 9:00 am at the latest to ensure you aren't finishing in the dark.
• Safety First: There is no mobile phone coverage on the track. We strongly recommend carrying a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB).
• Weather Watch: Always check the forecast. Heavy rain can cause rockfalls or slips on the narrow sections. If there has been a major storm, check with DOC or local shuttle operators for track conditions.
• Gear Up: Wear sturdy tramping boots. Even though it's a "track," the terrain is uneven. Pack plenty of water, high-energy snacks, and a waterproof jacket regardless of the forecast.

Local & Regional Context

The Pākihi Track isn't just a path through the woods; it’s a corridor through history. Long before the settlers arrived, the general route followed the Te Kowhai track, a historic Māori pathway used to navigate between the coast and the inland valleys.

In 1906, the track was formalised as a stock route to connect the farming community of Motu with the port at Ōpōtiki. It was a massive feat of engineering for the time, carved into steep hillsides to allow sheep and cattle to be driven through the rugged terrain. Standing on the track today, it’s humbling to imagine the grit of the workers and farmers who traversed this route in all weathers. Today, the area is part of a significant conservation effort to protect the Urutawa Forest, one of the largest remaining tracts of native bush in the region.

After the Walk

After 20 kilometres on your feet, you’ll be ready for some serious refueling. Luckily, there are some great local spots:

• Weka Wilds: Located just 500 metres from the Pākihi Road end, this is the ultimate post-hike stop. They are famous for their "wicked pizzas" (usually for groups/bookings) and offer a wonderful place to relax and share stories of the day.
• Bushaven: Situated about 10km back down Pākihi Road, this is a great hub for refreshments. They offer accommodation and camping if you want to stay in the valley a little longer.
• Motu Trails Hire & Shuttle (Ōpōtiki): Once you head back into town, this is the main hub. Grab a coffee, return your gear, and enjoy the coastal vibes of Ōpōtiki.

The Pākihi Track is more than just a hike; it’s a deep-tissue massage for the soul. It’s remote, it’s historic, and it’s undeniably beautiful. If you’re ready to lace up your boots and disappear into the wild for a day, the Urutawa Forest is waiting for you.

10km away

Positioned approximately 10km from the Pākihi Road end, Bushaven offers accommodation, camping, shuttles, and bike hire. It's an ideal spot for pre- or post-hike refreshments and supplies.