10 October 2026
Mostly cloudy, with the odd shower. Northeasterlies.
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1 / 16Pirongia Forest Park
Hihikiwi Track
Hihikiwi Track is the shortest track to Pāhautea Hut and Pirongia summit. Walk to the lookout point on Mount Pirongia for one of the best vantage points over the west coast harbours. This track is part of Te Araroa Trail.
Distance
5.3 km
Walking time
3 - 4 hr one way to the lookout | 4 - 6 hr one way to the summit
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Pirongia track closures
Pirongia West Road open for light vehicles
Pirongia track closures
Pirongia track closures
Weather outlook
Waikato forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 4:55 pm
11 October 2026
Showers, possibly heavy, clearing to fine spells in the afternoon. Periods of rain developing in the evening. Northwesterlies.
12 October 2026
Occasional rain, clearing north of Hamilton in the evening but remaining cloudy. Northerlies developing for a time in the morning and afternoon.
13 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies, dying out in the evening.
14 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies developing in the morning.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Hihikiwi Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Hihikiwi Track
The first section of track climbs steeply via a series of steps before settling into a steady climb to Hihikiwi Lookout. There are views west along the way but the best vantage point over the west coast harbours is at the lookout. It's also great place to watch the sunset if staying at Pahautea Hut. From the lookout, there is an elevated boardwalk and steps all the way to the hut (800 m). It is another 30 min from the hut to the summit.
Essential information for Hihikiwi Track
A good level of fitness is required for this track. The high-level tracks on Pirongia follow steep-sided ridges. Water is difficult to find, especially in summer, so be sure to take sufficient drinking water with you. Because of poorly drained soils, the tracks can be very muddy, especially after rain.
Huts and campsites
Bookings are required for Pahautea Hut and campsite . For more information, visit the DOC website .
Getting there for Hihikiwi Track
Hihikiwi Track starts on Pirongia West Road, 30 minutes from Pirongia. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Weather and track conditions
It rains a lot on Pirongia - be prepared for cold, wet weather, lots of mud, and always take a dry change of clothes with you. Heavy rain and strong winds are most likely from the west.
Dog access for Hihikiwi Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Hihikiwi Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.