Trip Report Mangaehuehu Hut

We embarked on our adventure to the Mangaeheuhu Hut on a bright Wednesday morning, the air crisp and the sky a clear blue. Our group of six enthusiastic hikers left Taupo early, hitting the road by 7:00 AM and reaching the starting point at the Ohakune Mountain Road by 9:05 AM.

The first part of our hike was a gentle ascent, with the sound of birds chirping and the sun filtering through the trees creating a serene ambiance. The path, part of the Round The Mountain track, was well-maintained, making for an easy trek. We crossed several swing bridges, each offering a new perspective of the lush surroundings.

About an hour into our hike, we reached a scenic spot near Waitonga Falls, perfect for a short break. The falls were magnificent, cascading down with a soothing sound. We took this opportunity to capture some photos, creating lasting memories of the picturesque landscape.

As we progressed, the terrain became slightly more challenging, with a few un-bridged gullies that required careful navigation. The boardwalk sections were a welcome change, providing stable footing amidst the more rugged parts of the trail.

We reached the Mangaehuehu Hut around midday, with the journey taking us close to 4 hours including our stops. The hut, nestled amidst the natural beauty of the area, was a welcoming sight. We enjoyed a well-deserved lunch break here, sharing stories and enjoying the peacefulness of the wilderness.

The return journey was equally enjoyable, with the afternoon sun casting a golden hue over the landscape. We made good time, arriving back at our starting point by 4:30 PM. Our hike covered approximately 12.7 kilometers in total, and while it was tiring, the breathtaking views and the camaraderie of the group made it an incredibly rewarding experience.

Overall, our trip to the Mangaehuehu Hut was a fantastic adventure, offering a mix of serene natural beauty and a bit of a physical challenge. It’s a hike I’d recommend to anyone looking for an enjoyable day out in the wilderness, and one I’d certainly love to do again.