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Key facts
- Distance
- Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time
- 50 min one way
- Track grade
- Advanced
- Location
- Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park
- Dog access
- No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
This track begins at the Mount Te Aroha Summit and leads to the Waiorongomai Saddle.
This DOC directory entry covers Te Aroha Summit to Waiorongomai Saddle (via Waipapa Track) in Bay of Plenty, within Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time: 50 min one way
- DOC grade: Advanced
Access and alerts
Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.
Dog access
No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
This track begins at the Mount Te Aroha summit and leads to the Waiorongomai saddle. A number of longer overnight tramps can be accessed from here. Descend from the summit via the stairways and steps on the northeast side. Dog Kennel Flat is reached after 20 minutes, at an intersection with Mountain Road.
This route then follows the Plutus Claim Track eastward, just below Dog Kennel Flat. After 30 minutes the track meets a junction with the Mangakino Pack Track at the Waiorongomai Saddle and the Crimson Thread Track/Waipapa Track (which heads east).
Mountain biking
Mountain biking is prohibited.
Getting there
This track begins at Te Aroha Summit. It can also be started from the Waiorongomai Saddle.
Know before you go
Expect a steep and rough track
You need good fitness for this track the terrain is very steep.
The track is rough, so wear comfortable hiking boots with good grip and ankle support.
This track reaches high altitudes, pack warm clothes
The summit of Te Aroha is nearly 1 km above sea level. This track reaches high altitudes and experiences alpine weather. At the height of the track it can be far colder than temperatures in Te Aroha. Even if it’s warm in the town, pack plenty of warm layers and a waterproof raincoat.
Find a day hikes packing list here
No water on track, carry lots
There are no water sources on the track and steep terrain means walkers need lots of water. We recommend carrying 2-3 L of water per person.
Be careful of historic mines
Mine Tunnels and shafts are dangerous and may be hidden by vegetation.
Keep to marked official tracks
Do not enter tunnels unless they are clearly marked for public access.
Lock your car and leave valuables out of sight
The car park is located in a remote location so its important your vehicle is left secured. Make sure it is locked and that all valuables are out of sight.
Sources and reuse
Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.
The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.
