This traverse of Pirongia Mountain starts with DOC’s Nikau Walk - an easy stroll south from the Kaniwhaniwha carpark, following the stream through a forest of plantings. Shortly after leaving the farmland and just before a circular walk through beautiful native forest, you take the Tahuanui Track leading off to the South-East and a picnic/campsite clearing with toilets and the last opportunity for swimming before starting the ascent to the summit.

The Tahuanui Track then climbs steadily up a ridge through stands of tawa to the summit ridge where several tracks converge on the 959m summit of Pirongia.  This would have taken you 4-5 hours so far. 30mins beyond the summit in a westerly direction is the Pahautea Hut.

From the hut, you continue westward on the new Noel Sandford boardwalk, following the  Hihikiwi Track with  good views to the south. 1km below Hihikiwi Peak and about 600m before Te Akeohikopiro Peak, you take a new spur track heading off in a SW direction. Follow this all the way down to Pirongia West Rd.

Weather on Pirongia:
Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher altitudes. Always carry a change of clothing, wet weather gear and sufficient food to cater for any emergency.

Pahautea Hut:
(Grid reference: Topomap mapsheet S15, E2693900, N6354500) is the only hut in the park. It sleeps 6-8 people on two platform bunks with mattresses. It has a water supply (recommend you treat the water) but not a fire or cooking facilities, so you should take a portable cooker. There are also campsites and a camping shelter at the hut. Fires are not permitted.

What to expect on a tramping track:

• Track is mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections
• Suitable for people with good fitness. Moderate to high level backcountry skills and experience, including navigation and survival skills required
• Track has markers, poles or rock cairns. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings
• Tramping/hiking boots required.