Mount Otanewainuku (640m) is covered in virgin forest. Emergent podocarps, especially
rimu, are common. Tawa, kamahi and rewarewa form the canopy and bird life is prolific.
Geologically, Otanewainuku is a rhyolitic dome rising above the ignimbrite Mamaku plateau.
The summit gives panoramic views from East Cape to Mt Tarawera, across the Mamaku Plateau
Maori legend says Tutanekai, lover of Hinemoa,leapt off Otanewainuku to escape his Rotorua
enemies.Walks in the area range from a 30-minute stroll to demanding and lengthy tramping.

How to Get There

Otanewainuku is 15km from Tauranga. It is
reached from State Highway 29 via Oropi Road
and then Mountain Road.


Attractions and Facilities

Rimu Loop Walk

(Easy walking, 30mins return)

This gently graded walk starts across Mountain
Road from the carpark and takes in some
impressive rimu trees before finishing back at
the road.


Whataroa Waterfall Track

(Moderate walking, 2hrs return)

For the slightly more agile, a well marked route
branches off the Rimu Loop after 15 minutes
and undulates through the forest to the
Whataroa Falls. Return the same way, or beyond
the waterfall the track leads north to the main
ridge track to Otawa Scenic Reserve (9hrs to
Upper Papamoa Road).


Summit Track

(Steep in parts, 1.5hrs return)

A loop track climbs to the summit of
Otanewainuku, starting from behind the shelter.


Please Remember

Dogs, horses, vehicles (including bicycles and
motorbikes), fires, removal of plants or animals,
camping or hunting are not permitted.