Kakepuku Mountain Track Reopens
Parks and Reserves
Kakepuku Mountain’s popular walking track is now open again to hikers and walkers following extensive repair and clean-up work.
The track was closed in February after a one-in-250-year storm caused significant damage, including surface cracking, unstable ground, multiple landslides, and access routes blocked by rock and fallen tree debris. While repairs were nearing completion, Cyclone Vaianu in April caused further damage, extending the closure period.
Contractors have now restored the 7.2km return track to a safe and walkable condition. Works included repairing eroded sections, relaying clay-based surfaces, clearing blocked culverts, removing debris, stabilising slips, and improving drainage. In higher sections, the track was realigned into the bank and a handrail installed to improve safety.
Visitors are reminded to stay on marked tracks, avoid the area during or immediately after heavy rain, and be aware that mobile phone reception can be patchy. While the track is safe to use, it can still be slippery in places.
Kakepuku sits on an ancient volcanic cone and is a popular destination for walkers and hikers, offering panoramic summit views and attracting around 33,000 visitors each year. The area is regularly monitored and managed as part of ongoing safety and maintenance planning.
