Over the Mountain Track: Northern Enclosure Ascent

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views · Wildlife

Note that you do not run through the northern enclosure to reach Maungatautari peak or to run across the mountain. The new benched track is entirely runnable, however the 4.5km ascent can be taxing.

Park at the end of Hicks Road and run up the sign posted track beside the farmhouse.

Follow the orange markers across the paddock and head directly up the hill to the forest line.

The view over Lake Karapiro is fabulous – take a few minutes to enjoy and get your breath back.

The last portion to the summit is on a boardwalk to avoid the mud. The summit itself is surrounded by forest. From this point you can return the way you came or continue along the ridge to Pukeatua (peak) and the Tari Road southern exit.

Maungatautari is an "ecological island" and the predator fence surrounding the park ensure native birdlife flourishes.