Mauao (Mount Maunganui) Base Track
Iconic extinct volcano offering stunning coastal views via scenic base and challenging summit tracks. A must-visit in Tauranga.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Mauao (Mount Maunganui) Base Track
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic extinct volcano offering stunning coastal views via scenic base and challenging summit tracks. A must-visit in Tauranga.
"The views are amazing. Really is a must do thing when in the Mount."
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The track has little shade. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially during midday.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, especially for the summit climb. Avoid the hottest part of the day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Summit of Mauao
Panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Tauranga, and the surrounding coastline. Absolutely breathtaking!
Base Track Stroll
Circumference of Mauao
A flat, scenic 3.4 km walk offering ocean breezes and coastal beauty. Perfect for all fitness levels.
Sunrise Spectacle
Summit or Base Track
Witness the world wake up with a magical sunrise over the ocean. An unforgettable start to the day.
Hidden Side Track
Halfway along the Base Track
A steep, rewarding detour with stunning views, perfect for an extra challenge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Choose Your Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The track has little shade. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially during midday.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, especially for the summit climb. Avoid the hottest part of the day.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Good walking shoes are recommended for the summit track's steep sections.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone!
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The track has little shade. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially during midday.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, especially for the summit climb. Avoid the hottest part of the day.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Good walking shoes are recommended for the summit track's steep sections.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone!
👶 Kid-Friendly Options
The Base Track is great for families. The summit climb is doable with kids but requires caution. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning views from Mauao, calling it a 'must-do' in the area. The summit climb is challenging but rewarding, while the Base Track offers a more leisurely, scenic experience. Some note the steepness of the summit path and the need for sun protection.
"Amazing view! The walk is a bit steep, and there are a few cliff edges to be mindful of if you're going with young kids—but we did it with our 5-year-old daughter, and she loved it. All in all, a fantastic experience!"
Elaine Louw
"Great walk with different ways to the summit. View is gorgeous. 30~ mins to the top with the quickest (steepest path). I started at 7:30am on a Tuesday."
jane samantha lowe
"Amazing walk, not easy, I felt like I was very unfit even though I’ve been going to the gym! But the views were amazing. Really is a must do thing when in the Mount. Would go back and do the easier route around the mountain, but the view was spectacular. I would suggest if you go up the stairs, maybe go back down the same way, not down the road track."
Jen Ritsma
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Maunganui is easily accessible by car, with parking available near the base. It's also a popular stop on North Island road trips, often visited after Auckland or Hobbiton. Public transport options are also available within Tauranga.
Yes, there are several parking areas around the base of Mauao, including near Mount Maunganui Main Beach and Pilot Bay. These can fill up quickly during peak times.
If you are staying in the Mount Maunganui area, walking to the base track is very feasible and a great way to start your exploration.
Yes, local buses in Tauranga service the Mount Maunganui area, making it accessible without a car. Check local bus schedules for routes and times.
Mount Maunganui is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Auckland, making it a popular day trip or overnight destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, both the Base Track and the Summit Track are completely free to access and enjoy.
Mauao is open 24/7, allowing you to visit at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee to access Mount Maunganui or its walking tracks. It's a public reserve for everyone to enjoy.
While not strictly necessary due to the well-marked paths, guided tours are sometimes available and can offer deeper insights into the cultural and natural history of Mauao.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but visitors are asked to respect the natural environment and its cultural significance. Stay on marked paths and be mindful of others.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Base Track is approximately 3.4 km and typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to complete at a leisurely pace.
The summit climb is considered moderately challenging due to its steepness, with many stairs. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top. [^Review]
There are multiple paths to the summit. The steepest, quickest route involves many stairs, while other paths are slightly longer but less intense. The Base Track is a flat, easy option around the mountain. [^Review]
Yes, there are public toilets available at various points around the base of Mauao and at the summit.
Yes, you might spot seals lounging on the rocks, and various seabirds. The surrounding ocean is also rich with marine life.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers unparalleled panoramic views for stunning photos. The Base Track provides beautiful coastal scenery and unique perspectives of the mountain.
Sunrise and sunset offer magical lighting conditions for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the views are still spectacular. +1
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or at specific times. It's advisable to check local regulations with the Tauranga City Council before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant wildlife or details.
The summit is the prime spot, but don't overlook the various lookouts along the Summit Track and the scenic points along the Base Track, especially near the ocean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The summit climb is also possible with children, as evidenced by families successfully completing it, but requires extra vigilance due to steep sections and potential cliff edges. [^Review] Bringing plenty of snacks and water is a must, and making a game out of spotting wildlife can add to the fun. 🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
The Base Track offers unique angles of the mountain and the coastline. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Summit Climb: A Rewarding Challenge
It's crucial to be prepared for the climb. Bring ample water, wear sturdy footwear, and be mindful of the sun, as there is limited shade.
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, the Base Track offers a beautiful alternative. However, for the iconic views and the sense of achievement, the summit climb remains a must-do for many visitors to Mount Maunganui.
The Base Track: A Gentle Coastal Ramble
+2As you wander along the Base Track, you'll be treated to ocean breezes, views of the golden beaches, and the majestic presence of the dormant volcano. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the area without the exertion of a steep climb. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks, especially during certain times of the year.
This track is also where you can find a 'sneaky little side track' that offers a steeper, more challenging detour for those looking for a bit more adventure.
Whether you complete the entire loop or just a section, the Base Track provides a serene and picturesque experience, making it a beloved activity for locals and visitors alike. Cultural Significance of Mauao
Understanding this cultural context enhances the visitor experience. While the tracks are well-maintained for recreation, it's important to approach Mauao with respect. The mountain is a place of ancestral importance, and visitors are encouraged to tread lightly and appreciate its heritage.
Many visitors are keen to learn about the pronunciation of Mauao, with creators sharing guides on how to say it correctly.
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