Last updated November 2026
Ngamuwahine Track offers a rewarding bush walk in the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park on the northern slopes of the Kaimai Ranges. The track climbs through native forest, crosses the Ngamuwahine Stream, and reaches a junction with the Leyland O’Brien Tramline Track. Walkers return the same way after exploring the ridge. It provides a peaceful forest experience without expansive coastal views.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Ngamuwahine Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Location
- Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park, Bay of Plenty
- Access
- End of Ngamuwahine Road off SH29
- Distance
- 3.5 km return (DOC)
- Time
- 1 hour 30 minutes one way
- Difficulty
- Advanced tramping track (DOC grade)
- Dogs
- Not allowed
- Wheelchair access
- Not suitable
- Fishing
- Trout in Ngamuwahine Stream (licence required)
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Ngamuwahine Track
The Ngamuwahine Track begins at the end of Ngamuwahine Road in the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park. It starts with a climb through mixed native bush behind Ngamuwahine Lodge, crossing the Ngamuwahine Stream before levelling out on a ridge.
The track finishes at an intersection with the Leyland O’Brien Tramline Track. Walkers return via the same route. An alternative is to continue along the tramline track in either direction for longer outings.
The Ngamuwahine Stream supports trout fishing, with access available from the track. A fishing licence from Fish and Game New Zealand is required.
The route is straightforward to follow, but DOC grades it an advanced tramping track: it climbs through the bush and crosses a river. No dogs are permitted on the track.
Access and Getting There
Ngamuwahine Road branches off State Highway 29 approximately 9 km on the Tauranga side of the Kaimai Range summit. The road is gravel with narrow sections and blind corners. At the road end there is parking near Ngamuwahine Lodge and an open grassed area beside the river.
To reach the DOC track, climb over the locked gate located to the right of the lodge. The track then enters the forest immediately beyond the gate.
From locals
How do I find the turnoff to Ngamuwahine Road from SH29?
Is there anywhere sandy along the stream, or is it mostly rocks and stones?
No answers yet. If you know, a local would love to hear it.
Like Tauranga’s outdoors?
Explore Tauranga Weekly has a walk or park idea every week, plus local news and weekend picks. Free every Thursday.
Free. One email a week. Unsubscribe any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Ngamuwahine Track?
DOC gives 1 hour 30 minutes one way to the junction with the Leyland O’Brien Tramline Track, and lists the distance as 3.5 km return via the same track.
Where does the track start?
It starts at the end of Ngamuwahine Road off SH29, past Ngamuwahine Lodge. Climb over the locked gate to the right of the lodge to reach the DOC track.
Are dogs allowed on the track?
No, dogs are not permitted on the Ngamuwahine Track.
Is the track suitable for families?
DOC grades it an advanced tramping track. It climbs through the bush and crosses a river, so it suits walkers with some tramping experience rather than a casual family outing.
Can I fish in the Ngamuwahine Stream?
Yes, the stream is known for trout. A fishing licence from Fish and Game New Zealand is required.
Is there wheelchair access?
No, the track is not wheelchair accessible due to the terrain, river crossing, and gate.
What should I bring?
Wear sturdy footwear, carry water, and check weather conditions as rivers can rise quickly after rain.
Can I extend the walk?
Yes, from the junction you can continue along the Leyland O’Brien Tramline Track in either direction for longer options.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Related links 3
- Department of Conservation: Official track description, access details, and safety information for Ngamuwahine Track.
- Western Bay of Plenty District Council: Local walking track summary with distance and access notes.
- Department of Conservation: Details on the connecting Leyland O’Brien Tramline Track for extended walks.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.