The trail takes you through parts of the historic Bennett and Punch bush tramway and the Ohakune water catchment area, offering breathtaking views of Mt Ruapehu.
As you traverse the path, you'll encounter landscapes that hold deep cultural meaning for Ngāti Rangi, passing through the UNESCO Dual World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park. Suitable for both cyclists and walkers, this trail offers a special experience that celebrates the natural and cultural heritage of Ruapehu.
Key Highlights:
- Majestic views of Mt Ruapehu
- Rich cultural connections to Ngāti Rangi
- Regenerating native bush and wildlife encounters
- Discover volcanic geological features
- Historic remnants of the Bennett and Punch bush tramway
- Walking and riding through ancient forests (ngahere)
- Family-friendly experience
This community trail has been developed in partnership with Ngāti Rangi.
Trail Overview
Start your journey at the base of Ohakune Mountain Road, where you’ll find remnants of an old village scattered around—including fragments of a pharmacy and historic cooking utensils. Look across the paddocks, and you'll spot iconic colonial buildings, once lively hubs near the Ohakune Old Coach Road.
The trail ascends gently through lush forest, crossing small bridges and winding through native ngahere. At one point, the route merges with the Mangawhero Forest Walk—remember to share with care—before rejoining a preserved segment of the Bennett and Punch Tramway. Here, the trail cuts through dense bush, reaching a new bridge set on the foundations of a historic multi-span bridge.
Further along, a right turn takes you into wetlands and open tussocks, where you'll see stumps and iron pins from old tramway sleepers—a reminder of past logging efforts.
The final section leads over a 19-metre bridge, with scenic views of Mt Ruapehu and surrounding bush. While the trail currently ends here, future extensions are planned towards the Massey University Alpine Club hut (MUAC) near Tūroa. For now, adventurers can continue along the road for a thrilling downhill ride, passing the Ohakune water intake and weaving through regenerating bush to a DOC campsite. The loop eventually reconnects with the main trail, guiding you back to the starting point.
