Description

Walk to Te Puia Hut for an easy overnight tramp, or continue on to hot springs surrounded by bush and with river views. Makahu Road End (The Gums) to Te Puia Hut (Lodge) - Time: 2-3 hr From the end of Makahu Road a track leads up the true right of the Mohaka River to Te Puia Hut. 24 bunk hut, with fireplace, and indoor water. Te Puia Hut (Lodge) to Mangatainoka Hot Springs - Time: 45 min (an actual 40-45mins, not it's not 20-30mins) From Te Puia Hut the track continues up river, past the turnoff to Makino Hut, and crosses a bridge over the Makino River just above its confluence with the Mohaka River. The track then continues alongside the Mohaka, through native bush with some rolling terrain. Steep drop-offs in some sections lend nice views of the surrounding foothills. There is a final steep descent to reach the hot springs. At the Mangatinoka hot springs, on a small manuka terrace beside the Mohaka River, there are three deep fibreglass baths surrounded by a decking area. The Mangatainoka Hot Springs Campsite area is adjacent to the pools. If you wish to travel up the river from the hot springs, be aware this is private land and prior permission from the landowner is required. Mahaku Road may be closed in times of heavy rainfall check with Hastings District Council for road closures. Makahu Road is not suitable for caravans or campervans. No dogs.