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 / 62Pirongia Forest Park
Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga Tracks
Choose a there-and-back track to the summit of Mount Pirongia, or combine the tracks for a circuit trip to Pāhautea Hut. There are climbing chains on difficult parts of the track.
Distance
15.5 km
Walking time
1 - 2 days
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Pirongia track closures
Pirongia track closures
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
Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga Tracks on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga Tracks
Time required: 1 - 2 days This is a popular round trip for people overnighting at Pahautea Hut. Cross from Grey Road car park to Ruapane via the Mangakara Nature Walk and Link Track then follow the Tirohanga Track to the summit viewing tower. Return via Mahaukura Track to Grey Road. This is the easier circuit rather than doing it the other way round via Mahaukura then Tirohanga.
Essential information for Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga Tracks
A good level of fitness is required for these tracks. 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 .
Getting there for Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga Tracks
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 and always take a dry change of clothes with you. Heavy rain and strong winds are most likely from the west.
Dog access for Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga Tracks
No dogs.
Before you walk Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga Tracks
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.