Last updated July 2026
Aongatete Walking Tracks provide access to lowland native forest in the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park, with options ranging from short family-friendly loops to longer tramping routes that include stream crossings. The tracks pass through pūriri and kohekohe forest and follow sections beside the Aongatete Stream. Visitors can also reach attractive swimming holes via a dedicated link track. The area is managed by the Department of Conservation and offers a peaceful escape between Tauranga and Katikati.
Practical Information
| Location | End of Wright Road, off SH 2 between Tauranga and Katikati |
| Tracks | Aongatete Nature Trail, Short Loop Walk, Long Loop Walk, Link Track |
| Distances | Nature Trail: short loop; Short Loop: 2.4 km; Long Loop: 6.7 km; Link Track to swimming holes: 1.7 km |
| Times | Nature Trail: 15 min; Short Loop: 1 hr; Long Loop: 3 hr; Link Track to holes: 45 min |
| Difficulty | Easy to advanced depending on track; stream crossings on longer routes |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
| Toilets | Available at the car park |
| Wheelchair access | No |
| Cell coverage | Intermittent |
About Aongatete Walking Tracks
The Aongatete tracks lie within the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park and traverse attractive lowland forest dominated by pūriri and kohekohe. Walkers follow well-marked paths that cross small streams and pass alongside the Aongatete Stream in places. The setting provides a quiet natural environment suitable for day walks of varying lengths.
Four main tracks cater to different abilities. The shortest Nature Trail is a family-friendly loop with interpretive signs explaining the forest layers, geology, conservation efforts and pests. The Short Loop Walk offers a gentle, well-graded circuit through the bush. The Long Loop Walk includes moderately steep sections and stream crossings, making it more challenging. The Link Track provides access to swimming holes and connects toward the North-South Track for longer tramps.
All tracks start from the car park at the end of Wright Road. Visitors must park before the gate to the Aongatete Outdoor Education Centre and Lodge, which is private land. The car park includes toilets. Track surfaces can be slippery when wet, and sturdy footwear with good grip is recommended. Stream and river crossings require careful assessment, especially after rain.
Swimming Holes
The Aongatete Link Track leads to attractive swimming holes in the Aongatete Stream. A left branch approximately 15 minutes from the car park reaches the holes, which are about 45 minutes (1.7 km) from the start. The track can be slippery in wet conditions and includes an unbridged river crossing that becomes dangerous in high flows. Swimmers should supervise children closely, enter unknown water feet first and avoid swimming alone. Longer options from the Link Track junction connect to the North-South Track and destinations such as Thompsons Track or Wairere Falls.
Access and Facilities
The tracks are reached by driving along SH 2 between Tauranga and Katikati, then turning onto Wright Road. The car park is remote, so vehicles should be locked with valuables out of sight. No dogs are allowed on any of the tracks. Mobile phone coverage is intermittent, so visitors should carry maps and be prepared for backcountry conditions on longer routes. The nearest services are in Katikati or Tauranga.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers appreciate the peaceful forest setting and variety of track lengths, noting the interpretive signs on the short nature trail and the scenic stream crossings on longer loops. Many describe the swimming holes as refreshing on warm days but caution about slippery sections and the need for sturdy shoes.
Visitors often highlight the easy access from the highway and the quiet atmosphere away from busier spots. Some mention combining the Link Track with longer tramps, while others enjoy the short loops for a quick nature escape with children.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Aongatete Nature Trail: Official details on the shortest family-friendly loop with interpretive signage.
Department of Conservation – Aongatete Short Loop Walk: Track description, distance, time and safety notes for the 1-hour circuit.
Department of Conservation – Aongatete Link Track: Information on access to swimming holes and connections to longer tramps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do the Aongatete Walking Tracks start?
The tracks begin at the car park at the end of Wright Road, off SH 2 between Tauranga and Katikati. Park before the gate to the private lodge.
Are dogs allowed on the tracks?
No, dogs are not permitted on any of the Aongatete tracks.
Is there wheelchair access?
No, the tracks are not wheelchair accessible.
Are there toilets?
Yes, toilets are available at the car park entrance.
Can I swim at Aongatete?
Yes, attractive swimming holes are reached via a side branch of the Link Track, approximately 45 minutes from the car park. Use caution with river crossings and supervise children.
What is the longest track option?
The Long Loop Walk is a 3-hour, 6.7 km advanced loop with stream crossings. The Link Track also connects to longer tramps on the North-South Track.
Is cell phone coverage available?
Coverage is intermittent in the area. Carry a map and be prepared for backcountry conditions.
Are the tracks suitable for children?
The Nature Trail and Short Loop Walk are suitable for families. Longer routes with stream crossings require more care and experience.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.