Wellington Regional Trails
A view from the Pukeatua Track, with forest and green rolling hills in the background.

Ōtaki Gorge Road has reopened

Vehicle access is possible as far Boielles and the overnight car parks. The road remains closed south of the overnight parking area, while further work is completed.

Find out more

Last updated: 12 July 2025

This track is one of the tougher sections of Te Araroa trail linking Ōtaki Forks to Mangaone South Road.

Walking time
7 hr
Length
12.5km
Uses
Tramping/Hiking
Type
Single track
Walking difficulty
Advanced: Tramping track
Profile

804m highest point

Dogs
No
A brifge over a stream on Pukeatua Track. Native trees surround the bridge.

About the trail

This trail is a mix of four-wheel drive tracks, pine forest, native regenerative bush, old trees, and stream crossings. You can start on the Mangaone Walkway at the Mangaone South car park in Waikanae and take a right turn on to Pukeatua Track.

Follow the trail all the way to Ōtaki Forks and exit via the Emergency Access Track or walk to the summit and return the same way (about 14 kilometres return).

Enjoy the trail as a day walk from the Waikanae end, either by walking to the summit or add on an extra 5 kilometres to Ōtaki Forks and exit via the Emergency Access Track.

A small rocky stream on the Pukeatua Track in Tararua Forest Park.
A green and yellow sign on Pukeatua Track showing the directions and times for each trail in the area.
Looking down into a stream surrounded in bush on Pukeatua Track.
A path up the hill on the Pukeatua Track, showing a steady incline through regenerating pine forest.

Getting there

If you’re driving, park at the Mangaone Walkway southern car park.

If you choose to walk out from Ōtaki Forks, park another car at the Emergency Access Track on Otaki Gorge Road to make the return journey quicker.

Know before you go

  • Get ready using Plan My Walk by the NZ Mountain Safety Council for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list.
  • Toilets are available at the Mangaone Walkway southern entrance.
  • Tramping boots or sturdy walking shoes are a must.
  • There are several stream crossings.
  • Walking poles are a good idea as some sections are steep
  • At 810 metres, the summit is sub-alpine so take extra layers of warm clothing

For more tips and advice before heading out on Wellington’s trails check out our before you go section.

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