11 October 2026
Showers, possibly heavy, clearing to fine spells in the afternoon. Periods of rain developing in the evening. Northwesterlies.
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1 / 22Kakepuku Mountain Historic Reserve
Kakepuku Track
The Kakepuku Track in Kakepuku Historic Reserve climbs up through bush to the summit of Kakepuku, an old volcano.
Distance
6.84 km
Walking time
2 - 3 hr return
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Waikato forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 11:01 pm
12 October 2026
Occasional rain. Northwesterlies developing before dawn.
13 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies.
14 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies developing in the morning.
15 October 2026
A few showers, some possibly heavy. Northerlies, turning westerly.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Kakepuku Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Kakepuku Track
Start your journey from the car park along a shared mountain biking track, which winds through farmland before gradually ascending into regenerating bushland. After about 45 minutes, the trail steepens, with stairs leading into a dense forest. Continue along and you’ll reach the carved entrance to the pā site. From here, a boardwalk forms a loop, guiding you to the summit. At the top, a large lookout tower provides panoramic views of Pirongia to the northwest and Tongariro and Mt. Ruapehu to the southeast. Informative panels along the route share the history of the pā and the volcanic origins of Kakepuku.
Essential information for Kakepuku Track
Please use caution when wet, as the track can be slippery. There are parts of the track that aren't shaded, so sunscreen is a good idea. Dogs are prohibited in the reserve. There is a toilet near the carpark at the bottom of the mountain. Bring your own drinking water, particularly in hot summer months.
Getting there for Kakepuku Track
If you’re travelling from Hamilton, allow 45 minutes to get to Kakepuku Historic Reserve. If you’re coming from Te Awamutu it’s a 10 minute drive. 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
Dog access for Kakepuku Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Kakepuku 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.