Mangaone Return

The run follows the Mangaone Walkway along an old bush tramway making for generally easy gradients and a wide track (except for the occasional short sharp uphill where the track has been rerouted due to damage), and is made up of two parts. In the southern end you run through historically milled regenerating native podocarp forest which is lush and damp. In the northern end you cross a mixture of farm land, pine forest, and pockets of regenerating native forest along a rough farm road.

More info here: http://www.doc.govt.nz/Documents/parks-and-recreation/tracks-and-walks/wellington/mangaone-factsheet-071119.pdf

There are toilets at the trail head.

The southern and northern main car parks are at isolated road ends with a few houses near by. Although it's probably safe, use common sense and don't leave valuables in plain sight. There are information boards at both ends of the track. There is no public transport.

11 km

16 minutes

Yes

No

Easy.

At the start of the southern section make sure to stay left. A section of the Te Araroa trail heads off/joins from the right heading up to Pukeatua and over to Otaki Forks, but both trails are well marked.

Very patchy.

Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival blanket, Cellphone, Map

Take water from home, although there is plenty of water along the route it'd be sensible to treat it before drinking due to the surrounding farmland.

Can be a bit muddy in winter and after heavy rain.

Although this is an easy trail, due to poor cellphone coverage, make sure someone knows your intentions in case you hurt yourself. On sunny weekends there will be plenty of others about, but you don't want to spend a night out here as it'll be VERY cold in the valley.