Te Ara Mangawhero
Ancient native forest, historic tramway, Mangawhero River crossings — all rideable straight from the shop. Ohakune's best intro trail.
Ride from the shop along Goldfinch Street or follow the Mangawhero River Trail south — both routes bring you to the trailhead at the base of Ohakune Mountain Road in about 10–15 minutes. From there, Te Ara Mangawhero climbs through regenerating ngāhere (forest) inside Tongariro National Park, following the footprint of the old Bennett and Punch bush tramway.
The trail crosses the Mangawhero River on purpose-built bridges and passes through UNESCO Dual World Heritage landscape, carrying the cultural significance of Ngāti Rangi throughout. Two loop options: short (10km, 1.5–2hrs) or full (13km, 2–3hrs). Or just ride as far as you like and turn around.
Phase 2 of Te Ara Mangawhero is still under construction — it will eventually connect to Tūroa and complete the full Mountains to Sea trail system. The current loops are complete and open.
The ride
- Historic Bennett & Punch bush tramway remnants
- Mangawhero River crossings on purpose-built bridges
- Ngāti Rangi cultural landscape
- UNESCO Dual World Heritage — Tongariro National Park
- Mt Ruapehu views on the upper section
- Suitable for confident families
What Kune provides
- MTB and e-bike hire from the shop
- Full trail briefing + current conditions
- Map and Trailforks route
- Short loop (10km) or full loop (13km) — or just go as far as you like
Interactive map & trail reports
Te Ara Mangawhero on Trailforks
Live trail status, recent reports and the full interactive map.