Pirongia Traverse

This traverse of Pirongia Mountain starts with the Department of Conservation's Nikau Walk – an easy stroll south from the Kāniwhaniwha carpark, following the stream through a forest of plantings. Shortly after leaving the farmland and just before a circular walk through beautiful native forest, you take the Tahuanui Track leading towards the southeast. Here, you will find a picnic/campsite clearing with toilets and the last opportunity for swimming before starting the ascent to the summit.

The Tahuanui Track then climbs steadily up a ridge through stands of tawa to the summit ridge where several tracks converge on the 959m summit of Pirongia. So far, this should have taken roughly 4-5 hours. 30 minutes beyond the summit in a westerly direction is the Pahautea Hut. It is generally a good idea to stay overnight in this hut and continue south the following day.

Information from DOC regarding Pahautea Hut:

From the hut, you continue westward on the new Noel Sandford boardwalk, following the Hihikiwi Track with good views to the south. 1km below Hihikiwi Peak and about 600m before Te Akeohikopiro Peak, you take a new spur track heading off in a southwestern direction. Follow this all the way down to Pirongia West Road.

What to expect on a tramping track:

• The track is mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections
• Suitable for people with good fitness. Moderate to high-level backcountry skills and experience, including navigation and survival skills required
• The track has markers, poles or rock cairns. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings
• Tramping/hiking boots required.