Last updated July 2026
Mauao (Mount Maunganui) is an iconic volcanic cone in Tauranga offering popular walking tracks around its base and to the summit. The 3.4 km base track and several summit routes provide coastal views across the harbour, Matakana Island and the Pacific Ocean. All tracks on Mauao are currently closed to the public due to large slips and ongoing safety risks following severe weather in January 2026.
Practical Information
| Location | Mount Maunganui, Tauranga |
| Status | Fully closed until further notice due to slips and rockfall risk |
| Base track | 3.4 km loop, approximately 45 minutes |
| Summit height | 232 m |
| Summit time | Approximately 45 minutes one way |
| Dogs | Prohibited except service dogs |
| Accessibility | Base track suitable for experienced outdoor mobility users with assistance on steeper sections; all-terrain wheelchairs recommended |
| Toilets | Available near Pilot Bay and Mount Maunganui Surf Lifesaving Club (base access points) |
| Water | Water fountain at Mount Maunganui Surf Lifesaving Club |
| Rubbish | No bins; take all rubbish with you |
About Mauao
Mauao is a 232 m extinct volcanic cone at the end of the Mount Maunganui peninsula in Tauranga. It forms a prominent landmark visible across the Bay of Plenty and serves as a popular destination for walking and enjoying panoramic coastal scenery.
The maunga is jointly owned and managed by Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui and Ngāti Pūkenga iwi together with Tauranga City Council. It holds deep cultural significance as a sacred tūpuna maunga for these iwi and Waitaha.
Tracks include the easy 3.4 km Te Ara Tūtanga base loop starting from either Pilot Bay or Main Beach, and steeper summit routes such as Waikorire and Oruahine that connect to the 4WD maintenance track. The area experiences high visitor numbers, with around one million people walking the tracks annually in typical years.
Visitors should note the current full closure. Fencing, signage and security are in place at access points. The public is advised not to enter or bypass barriers due to slip and rockfall hazards.
Mauao Base Track
The Te Ara Tūtanga base track is a 3.4 km loop that circles the mountain. It can be started from either the Pilot Bay (Waikorire) or Main Beach (Hinekite Takutai) side and typically takes about 45 minutes. The track is generally well formed with gravel and boardwalk sections but includes areas with steep drop-offs and rockfall risk.
Views along the track include Tauranga Harbour, Matakana Island and the Pacific Ocean. Benches are provided at intervals for resting. The track is shared with runners and other users, so keep left and share with care.
Mauao Summit Tracks
Several tracks lead to Te Tihi o Mauao, the 232 m summit. The Waikorire track is the quickest and easiest summit route, featuring many stairs. The Oruahine track merges with the Te Ara Motukauri 4WD track partway up. The 4WD track itself starts near Pilot Bay and is steep and slippery in places; grip-soled shoes are recommended.
Allow around 45 minutes to reach the summit. Panoramic views from the top encompass surrounding islands, the Kaimai Ranges, Tauranga city and coastline toward Pāpāmoa and Waihī Beach. Pace yourself and carry water.
Cultural Significance and History
Mauao carries the Māori name meaning “caught by the morning sun” or “caught by the morning light.” Local legend describes a nameless mountain that sought to enter the sea in despair but was caught by the dawn and turned to stone.
The maunga contains recorded archaeological features including defended pā sites, terraces, pits and middens. It was occupied for centuries by Waitaha and later by Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Pūkenga, who formed strong ties in the area. Ownership was returned to the three iwi in 2008 after earlier Crown acquisition.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers praise the base track for its easy access, changing ocean views and convenient location near cafes and the beach. Many describe the summit climb as rewarding despite the effort, with spectacular 360-degree vistas especially at sunrise or sunset.
Visitors frequently note the track’s popularity and the need to share the path considerately. The combination of coastal scenery, cultural importance and proximity to Mount Maunganui amenities makes it a standout experience when open.
Where to Learn More
Tauranga City Council Mauao walkways page: Current closure updates, track descriptions and official map.
Mauao map and guide brochure (PDF): Detailed track map and places of significance from Tauranga City Council.
Wikipedia Mount Maunganui (mountain): Overview citing primary sources on geology, history and iwi ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mauao currently open?
No, all tracks and access points on Mauao are closed to the public until further notice due to slips and rockfall risk.
How long is the base track?
The Te Ara Tūtanga base track is 3.4 km and takes approximately 45 minutes to complete as a loop.
How high is the summit?
Mauao stands 232 m above sea level.
Are dogs allowed on Mauao?
Dogs are prohibited on Mauao except for service dogs.
Is the base track wheelchair accessible?
The base track is suitable for experienced outdoor mobility users and all-terrain wheelchairs, with assistance recommended on steeper sections.
Where are the toilets located?
Public toilets are available near the Pilot Bay boat ramp and at the Mount Maunganui Surf Lifesaving Club.
What is the Māori name and meaning of Mauao?
Mauao means “caught by the morning sun” or “caught by the morning light.”
Who manages Mauao?
Mauao is jointly owned by Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui and Ngāti Pūkenga iwi and managed with Tauranga City Council.
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