Mauao (Mount Maunganui) summit track

Mauao is the volcanic dome at the end of the Mount Maunganui peninsula. The summit track climbs steadily with steps and a few steep pinches, and the top gives a full 360 degree view of the coast. There is also a flatter, roughly 3.5 km base track that circles the headland, which is much easier with kids or a dog on a lead.

Good to know

• Go at sunrise or late afternoon for cooler walking and softer light
• Wear proper shoes, the upper track is steep
• The base track is flat and good in wet weather
• Some Mauao walkways closed after the early 2026 landslides, so check Tauranga City Council for current track status

Best time

Sunrise or late afternoon

Open

All year

Getting there

Start from the Pilot Bay end car park or beside the Mount Hot Pools; busy at weekends and in summer

Vehicles

Fine in any car

Dogs

Dogs on a lead

Facilities

• Rubbish bins
• Toilets

The location is approximate. Check the official website before you go.

Data: Roadtrip. Things change: check opening times, prices and rules before you go.