Hikers and walkers can return to Kakepuku Mountain, with the popular track reopening today following extensive repair and clean-up work.
The track was closed in February after a one-in-250-year storm caused significant damage, including tension cracking along the path, unstable ground, multiple landslides, and access routes blocked by rock and fallen tree debris. While repairs were nearing completion, Cyclone Vaianu in early April brought further damage.
Contractors have since restored the track to a safe, walkable condition. However, visitors are reminded to stay on marked tracks, avoid entering the area during or immediately after heavy rain, and that phone reception can be patchy.
Community services manager Brad Ward said while safe, the track can be slippery. “The public need to remember a good level of fitness is required. While signage warns of an active landslip risk, this is a precautionary measure due to the maunga’s geology. Visitors need to take care, and know the area is regularly monitored and managed as part of ongoing safety planning.
“We know Kakepuku is really popular and people are eager to get back out there. We appreciate the community’s patience while geotechnical assessments and subsequent repairs were completed.”
Kakepuku Mountain Conservation Society member Emily Empson said the reopening is a welcome milestone.
“We are excited to be getting back up on the maunga and continuing our pest management mahi.
"Kakepuku is not only a place of natural and cultural significance, but also a space that supports the health and wellbeing of our wider community. We’re grateful for the patience and understanding shown during the closure, and we look forward to people reconnecting with the maunga once again.”
The $14,500 repair project included restoring eroded sections of track, relaying clay-based surfaces, clearing blocked culverts, and removing rocks, fallen trees, and built-up silt.
Drainage improvements were also carried out, with slips stabilised and gutters cleared. In higher sections where the tension cracking occurred, the track was realigned into the bank and a handrail installed to improve safety.
The 7.2km return track, set on an ancient volcanic cone, is a popular destination for walkers and hikers, offering panoramic summit views and attracting nearly 33,000 visitors last year.
