If you’re looking to get out and about now the weather is fining up, an informal survey of favourite day-walks around Taupō on public conservation land has thrown up some clear favourites.
The survey of Department of Conservation staff around Taupō lists five accessible and accomplishable walks depending on your level of fitness, how much time you have and the age of those going.
In equal first place were the Lake Rotopounamu Track and Tongariro River Trail, followed by equal seconds the Spa to Huka Falls Walk and the Opepe Bush Walk. Hot on their heels in third was the walk to Mt Urchin Trig.
Lake Rotopounamu
DOC community ranger Charlotte Fletcher describes Rotopounamu as a stunning lake and the track to it as easy and family friendly.
“And it’s also a great one for running. I love the amazing bird life, which is doing well thanks to the predator control efforts of Project Tongariro.”
Rotopounamu Track: Tongariro National Park, Central North Island region
Tongariro River Trail
This walk offers views over Tūrangi township and the famous fly-fishing waters of the Tongariro River and is a favourite easy mountain bike loop.
“The Tongariro River Trail is super handy to town, with a variety of easy terrain, cool bridges, and loop options. Love it for a good run or ride,” says Ben Scrimgeour, ranger heritage and visitors.
Tongariro River Trail: Turangi area, Central North Island region
Spa to Huka Falls Track
Well-known, popular and very handy to town this walk offers spectacular views of the Waikato River.
Says Fletcher: “I love running this track. Again, it’s accessible to Taupō and for young families, I love the great views to the river, and it passes two awesome spots – Otumuheke Hot Pools, and the iconic Huka Falls.
Spa Park to Huka Falls Walk: Taupō area, Central North Island
Opepe Bush Walk
DOC programme manager Alex Knewstubb says the historic site of Opepe has an amazing podocarp forest with huge trees and an interesting story. The walk, close to Taupō is accessible for families.
“It’s an absolutely awesome walk, and it’s great for kids.”
Mt Urchin Trig Track
More difficult but with a rewarding payoff is this track in the Kaimanawa Forest Park and worth considering if other well-known walks seem crowded.
“I think this is the best short walk in the area. It’s steep but has amazing panoramic views of Tongariro National Park and beyond. It’s not too busy with people, very underrated,” says DOC principal ranger Ian McNickle.
He’s backed by Scrimgeour who calls the track “a short, sharp grind to possibly the best view in the district, with an amazing panorama across Tongariro National Park and Taupō.”
Mt Urchin Trig Track: Kaimanawa Forest Park, Central North Island
