Description

These two tracks lead to Wharauroa Lookout (850 m) with one of the best views from Mount Pirongia of Hamilton, Te Awamutu and the surrounding landscape. Further on, Mahaukura Lookout (902 m) has further views south toward the King Country.

Via Mahaukura Track

Time: 2–3 hr one way
Distance: 4.6 km

The Mahaukura Track starts at the Grey Road car park and climbs steadily through tawa forest to Wharauroa Lookout. The last 30 metres before the view point are quite steep and chains have been bolted to the rock to guide you. Another 30 minutes along the track is Mahaukura Lookout.

From the lookout the track continues on to Pirongia summit. See Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga Tracks. 

Getting there: The track starts 11 km north of Pirongia. 5.5 km north of Pirongia, turn off SH39 onto Te Pahu Road. Take the first left turn into Hodgson Road, then turn left turn into Grey Road and follow this to the end.

Via Wharauroa Track

Time: 2 hr one way
Distance: 3.5 km

The track crosses private farmland from O’Shea Road car park so please keep to the marked track and use stiles. The bush edge is reached after 30 min and then there is a steep climb up a tawa-covered spur to the lookouts.

Getting there: The start of the track is 6.7 km north of Pirongia. Leave Pirongia on Baffin Street. Turn right into O'Shea Road and follow this to the end.

Know Before You Go:

Pack everything on the day hike packing list, including a waterproof raincoat, warm clothes and spare food. Because of poorly drained soils, the tracks can be very muddy and slippery, especially after rain. We recommend sturdy shoes with good grip.

Check the Pirongia Mountain weather forecast – NIWA website 

All content and images courtesy of Department of Conversation.