Walking Tracks
Thompson’s Track
Thompson’s Track is located 12km south of Te Aroha off Thompson Rd. The track crosses the Kaimai Ranges between Manawaru and Katikati. It is a legal paper road owned by Matamata Piako District Council from the western side to the summit (approximately 6km) and Western Bay of Plenty District Council on the eastern side (approximately 7km).
The history of the track dates back to pre-European times but was opened up around the turn of the century. According to stories, the track was upgraded to a reasonable road standard during the Second World War as an alternative escape route should Tauranga be invaded. In later years it was used as a stock route and by local contractors to walk their bulldozers to Katikati to carry out land clearing work.
It has been used by motorbikes for many decades, but has only been used by 4WD vehicles since they became popular in the 1980s & 90s. The track is now used extensively by 4WD vehicles that regularly come from all over the North Island to tackle the track. This change in use has had a major impact to the condition of the track in the past 20 years. The track is also used by trampers, mountain bikers, hunters and horse riders. Usage during the week is normally only a few vehicles per day, however on a weekend it is not unusual to see a dozen or more 4WDs and motor bikes on the track at any one time.
Current Track condition
15 November 2024
Thompson’s Track will be closed to all vehicles from Monday 18 November to Friday 29 November 2024. After this closure period the track will be open to all users over the summer months.
Horseman's Track
The Horseman’s Track starts near the Mokena Geyser in Te Aroha Domain. Initially walkers follow the Te Aroha Mountain Track before turning onto the Tui-Domain Track. After 10 metres the junction of the Tui-Domain Track and Horseman’s Track is reached. The Horseman’s Track continues uphill from here. After climbing through the forest for about 20 minutes the track reaches the junction with the Lipsey Track. The adventurous can continue uphill, along a fairly steep and sometimes narrow track, past a historic mine entrance, eventually meeting the Te Aroha Mountain Track again above the Whakapipi Lookout. Here walkers have the choice of either following the Department of Conservation track up to the summit of Mount Te Aroha, or walking down to the Whakapipi Lookout (10 minutes) and back to the Domain (45 minutes to an hour).
The Horseman’s Track also offers an alternative route down from the Te Aroha Mountain Track. For a change in scenery, walkers can walk up the Te Aroha Mountain Track, past Whakapipi Lookout and Bald Spur and walk back to the Domain via the Horseman’s Track.
The Horseman’s Track is maintained by the Te Aroha & District Tramping Club.
| Classification |
Easy tramping track |
| Time | Approx 2 hours return. |
| Distance | Approx 1.1km |
| Track Rating | Moderate fitness levels and abilities. Sections may be steep, narrow, rough, rocky, wet or muddy. |
| Conveniences | Parking, picnicking, playground and toilets available at the Te Aroha Domain. |
| Special Attractions | Spectacular views of Te Aroha and surrounding countryside. Historic mine. |
Te Aroha Mountain Biking Track
The Te Aroha mountain bike track offers a one way loop, with additional more advanced options that you can choose to do through a bush setting to suit more advanced levels of mountain biking ability. The various loops provide plenty to see, going past waterfalls, across small streams and some exhilarating downhills. Starting and ending at the Te Aroha Domain means riders can stop and relax after their workout or rest their muscles at the nearby Swim Zone Te Aroha or Te Aroha Mineral Spas.
The map below (click on the image to enlarge the map) provides an indication of the track.
These tracks are maintained by the Te Aroha Mountain Bike Club.
| Classification |
|
| Time | Varies |
| Distances | Main trail - 10kms with additional loops approx 14kms. |
| Track Rating | Suitable for more advanced/experienced riders. These trails are not suitable for beginners or less experienced riders. If you are new to mountain biking, we suggest you try some of the easier trails at Te Miro Forest instead. |
| Conveniences | Parking, picnicking, playground and public toilets available at Te Aroha Domain |
| Special Attractions | Set in established bush but located close to town conveniences. The Pools and Spas are located in the Te Aroha Domain. |
Mountain biking track
Lipsey Track
The Lipsey Track starts above the Water Treatment Plant at the end of Miro Street.
The start of the track is fairly steep with several steps to climb. After a while the track starts to level out and follows the contour over the top of a waterfall. After the waterfall the track enters native forest again and joins up with the Horseman’s Track.
At the junction with the Horseman’s Track, walkers have the choice of turning downhill and walking to Te Aroha Domain or the more adventurous may want to turn uphill, taking an alternative route to join the Te Aroha Mountain Track above Bald Spur & Whakapipi Lookout.
The Lipsey Track is maintained by the Te Aroha & District Tramping Club.
| Classification |
Easy tramping track |
| Time | Approx 30 minutes to the junction with the Horseman’s Track. |
| Distance | Approx 560m |
| Track Rating | Moderate fitness levels and abilities. Sections may be steep, rough, rocky, wet or muddy. |
| Conveniences |
Parking along Miro Street. Parking, picnicking, playground and toilets available at the Te Aroha Domain. |
| Special Attractions | Spectacular views of Te Aroha and surrounding countryside. Tutumangao Waterfall. |
Te Miro Forest Mountain Bike Track
A large network of mountain biking tracks in a beautiful and isolated setting. Enjoy great views of the area including exotic and native vegetation and the large water reservoir that supplies water to the Morrinsville township. A picnic spot overlooking the reservoir provides an ideal setting for after your workout.
The mountain bike tracks are maintained by the Te Miro Mountain Bike Club. Note the map below is indicative only - more detailled maps are available on the mountain bike club website.
| Classification |
Mountain bike track |
| Time | Varies |
| Distance | Various distances |
| Track Rating | Suitable for a range of skill levels |
| Conveniences | Picnic area with view of water reservoir; Toilet |
| Special Attractions | Choose from various track options and enjoy views of the native bush and water reservoir |
Please note there are no rubbish bins at this park.
