Te Hangāruru

Phase I - Partial Opening Thursday 19th June

We’re thrilled to open the first section of Te Hangāruru as a Matariki gift to our community on 19 June. From Horopito, the trail is now open to the stunning suspension bridge over the Mangaturuturu River and back — a return journey of approximately 12km.

The remainder of the trail through to Pōkākā Road will be progressively opened over the coming weeks as finishing touches are completed and the trail reaches standard. It’s been a tough, wet autumn — but winter riding conditions are looking mint!

Where Nature and History Ride Together
Te Hangāruru is the newest addition to the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride, offering an easy-going adventure through a landscape shaped by time, culture, and connection. Linking with the Ohakune Old Coach Road in the south and eventually connecting through the Last Spike to the Marton Sash and Door tramway and Waimarino in the north, this is the first part of a long-awaited missing link. The mostly flat Grade 2 trail winds through peaceful native forest, across flowing boardwalks, and over a dramatic suspension bridge above the Mangaturuturu River.

Step Into Stories, Ride Through Beauty
This is more than just a scenic ride — it’s a journey through living history. Follow the path of a century-old bush tramway alongside the North Island Main Trunk Line, through land cared for by Te Korowai o Wainuiārua. With views to Mt Ruapehu, birdsong in the trees, and heritage woven into every curve, Te Hangāruru is the perfect half-day ride or walk for explorers of all ages and abilities.

Highlights

• Two suspension bridges, including a dramatic crossing of the Mangaturuturu River

• A corridor of connection alongside the North Island Main Trunk Line

• Stories of the timber industry through the heart of the Waimarino

• An incredible man-made waterfall shaped by the Deep Creek diversion

• Views to Mt Ruapehu through a living, breathing forest corridor

• Regenerating forest, wetlands, and thriving birdlife

• Whenua of Te Korowai o Wainuiārua – layered with history and hope

• Ride, run or walk this flowing Grade 2 trail

• Family friendly and rideable all year round