Moerangi Track

Okahu Rd to Rogers Hut (Te Wairoa) Time: 3 hr 30 min Distance: 13 km Begin at the Okahu Road end; it’s a 2-hour (7 km) walk to Skips Hut (Whangatawhia) . From there, the track climbs over a saddle before descending to Rogers Hut . Rogers Hut is one of the original deer culler huts in the Whirinaki, built from massive beech slabs and featuring a stained-glass window. Keep an eye out for whio/blue ducks in the stream next to the hut. Rogers Hut to Moerangi Hut Time: 3 hr Distance: 9 km From Rogers Hut, it’s an easy walk to the next overnight stop: Moerangi Hut . The hut is located about 500 m up a slight detour from the main track. There are plenty of kiwi in the area, so listen for their shrill calls as night falls. Moerangi Hut to River Rd Time: 4 hr 30 min Distance: 13 km From Moerangi Hut, the track climbs steeply over Moerangi Saddle, which tops out at 955 m. From here, enjoy spectacular views of the Rangitaiki Plains far below. Descending from the saddle, the track enters lush lowland podocarp forest. Walk among the towering trees before reaching the River Rd car park, marking the end of the track.

For passionate mountain bikers, this track is a "must-do" ride. Covering 35 km of challenging single track with 1000 m of climbing, it demands respect—but the thrilling descents make it all worthwhile. The three huts along the way provide great spots to rest and regroup. They also offer the option of turning this demanding ride into an overnight adventure. Okahu Road to Skips Hut Distance: 7 km Starting from Okahu Valley Rd car park, the trail immediately climbs towards the first saddle gaining 100 m in height in just 1 km. The rewards are instant. The trail then has an undulating descent following the Whangatawhia Stream for a further 6 km. There are numerous bridges to cross before reaching Skips Hut. Skips Hut to Rogers Hut Distance: 6 km From Skips Hut the trail continues along the Whangatawhia Stream a short distance before beginning a sustained climb of 150 m. Once the saddle is reached after 2 km, a fast and flowing 2.5 km descent follows. Rogers Hut is the perfect stopping point at the confluence of the Moerangi and Wairoa streams. Rogers Hut to Moerangi Hut Distance: 9 km Leaving Rogers Hut the track heads west (take a right at the junction) up the Moerangi Stream. This section is an undulating climb with some steeper pinches. The right hand side of the track has some exposed sections with large drop offs - take care. Don’t miss the short detour to Moerangi Hut if you are keen on a visit. Moerangi Hut to River Road Distance: 13 km Immediately from the hut the real climbing begins. The trail continues to weave its way up the Moerangi Stream for a short period before ascending the saddle. The climb is steep and sustained gaining almost 300 m - most will find it a challenge. A rest point is available at the saddle and some cell phone reception is possible. From the saddle it's a fast and long descent loosely following the ridge line before dropping down to the Whirinaki River. Take care as the sides of the track have large drop offs. This is a stunning section of downhill riding that is sure to please. From Te Whaiti Nui A Toi Canyon it is a short climb to the River Rd car park. Navigation tip : keep an eye on the green trail markers that line the side of the Moerangi Track to ensure you stay on track.

Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park is 90 km south east of Rotorua. From Murupara travel south east along Te Whaiti Rd. Once you reach Te Whaiti this road becomes Ruatahuna Rd. Continue along this road for a further 7.5 km until you reach a right hand turn to Okahu Valley Rd. The car park is 9 km south on Okahu Valley Rd. The bike track starts from Okahu Valley Rd and ends at River Road car park. To get to River Road car park turn left off Te Whaiti onto Minginui Road and follow the signs. Mountain bikers should only start from Okahu Valley Rd. Use this location to help find your way there.

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

No dogs.