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The Department of Conservation has reopened the Mangakara Nature Walk in Pirongia Forest Park, as recovery work continues following severe weather in February.
The track, a popular short walk near Grey Road, is now accessible to visitors, although damage to infrastructure means it cannot currently be completed as a loop.
Access restored with limitations
Waikato operations manager Niwha Jones says the reopening marks progress in restoring visitor access across the park.
“The Mangakara Nature Walk is now available to the public, but it will operate as a there-and-back experience while repairs are completed,” Niwha says.
Two footbridges were destroyed during the storm, with replacement expected to take several months.
Safety remains priority
DOC is advising visitors to follow all signage and avoid attempting to cross streams while bridge access is unavailable.
“We want people to have a safe and enjoyable experience, so please enjoy the walk in its current configuration,” Niwha says.
Further up the maunga, significant landslips have been identified near the Mahaukura Track, which remains closed due to safety concerns.
Ongoing recovery work
DOC continues to assess damage across Pirongia Forest Park, with some areas still considered unsafe for public access.
Niwha says closures remain in place for good reason.
“If it’s closed, there’s a very good reason it’s off-limits to the public,” he says.
Supporting nature-based tourism
The partial reopening highlights the importance of track access in supporting regional, nature-based tourism, particularly for short, accessible walks suited to a wide range of visitors.
DOC is encouraging people to check track updates before travelling, as conditions continue to change during the recovery phase.
