An ancient, predator free, forest right here in the Waikato, just 30 minutes drive from Cambridge.
An ecological delight – this 3,400 hectare mountain which is protected by a pest proof fence to enable native wildlife to be released.
Visit the projects’ showcase site – the southern enclosure. Enjoy a walk through regenerating forest along wide metalled tracks, climb the 16 metre forest canopy viewing tower, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the hihi (stitchbirds) at their feeders. At night, listen to the kiwi call.
Walking options: One to two hour walks within the southern and northern enclosures. Full day treks to Pukeatua peak, Maungatautari peak, or across the mountain.
Bush walks and guided tours.
Visitor Centre open 7 days a week.
Northern Enclosure
The northern enclosure located at Hicks Road is able to be accessed by public. Parking for this area is located directly in front of Maungatautari marae at the base of the mountain. Please follow signs and do not park on private property near the entrance.
The entrance is surrounded by private farmland, so please use the available track and keep to the path. The path to the northern enclosure is roughly 1.5km on mountain terrain and also includes some steep areas. Please be careful when venturing to this area.
Dog’s are not permitted in the sanctuary at any time to protect the native species living within the sanctuary.
There are outdoor (long-drop) bathrooms available within the northern enclosure, which are not actively monitored each day. Please take this into consideration when you are planning your day trip to the maunga.
The loop track within the northern enclosure is roughly 1.5km and takes an estimated 35 minutes to complete the track. Perfect for a day trip in Waipā.
This area is a public reserve and is completely open to the public to enjoy year round.
Wairere Traverse
The Wairere Traverse (Over The Mountain) Track is open from the northern side and takes approximately 5 hours to complete, north-to-south.
