Walking tracks
- Pirongia summit via Mahaukura and Tirohanga TracksPirongia Forest Park · 1.4 km away
- Karioi TrackKarioi area · 32 km away
Loading outdoor place details…
KiwiTools
Search KiwiToolsFind tools, guides and categories in one place.
Loading photo
1 / 13Pirongia Forest Park
Tirohanga Track
Walk up to Pāhautea Hut and Campsite via Mount Pirongia summit from where you might see Mount Taranaki or Mount Ruapehu on a clear day.
Distance
6.5 km
Walking time
3–5 hr one way
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Pirongia track closures
Pirongia track closures
Pirongia track closures
Explore the area
Tirohanga Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Tirohanga Track
A steady climb from the Corcoran Road car park along the Tirohanga Track takes you up to Ruapane Trig in around 1 hour. The trail follows a formed path with 463 steps arranged in short stairways ranging from 6 to 18 steps each. The track becomes steeper and rougher as it nears the junction with the Ruapane Track. Near the summit, there’s a short, rocky climb to reach the trig viewpoint. The track then heads along an undulating ridge with uneven ground, making travel a little technical. Along the way, you'll pass Tirohanga Bluff, which is a pinnacle of hard lava from the volcanic past of Pirongia. The track then drops down to a saddle before climbing again to Pirongia summit (959 m). Climbing chains have been installed on the most challenging parts of the climb. From the summit, Pāhautea Hut and Campsite are just 30 minutes away.
Essential information for Tirohanga Track
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
Pahautea Hut is a 20-bunk hut close to the summit of Pirongia. Bookings are required. There is also a campsite next to the hut with 7 tent pads and a cooking shelter. Bookings also required.
Getting there for Tirohanga Track
5.5 km north of Pirongia, turn off SH39 onto Te Pahu Road, which is signposted for Pironga Forest Park. After 5.6 km, turn into Corcoran Road and follow this to the end. Use this location on Google Maps to help 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 . Level up in your outdoor knowledge with these interactive 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 Tirohanga Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Tirohanga 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.