WikiCamps New Zealand

Mangatutu Hot Springs Campsite

Backpacker Hostel

Contact

Makahu Road, Hastings District, South Island.

napier@doc.govt.nz

doc.govt.nz/search-results/?query=Mangatutu+Hot+Springs+Campsite

Description

This is a popular camping, picnic and fishing spot, and a starting point for tramping, hunting or day walks up the Mohaka River and into the Kaweka Forest Park. No fees apply. Bookings not required - first come, first served. There are 45 non-powered sites. Facilities include toilets, water from a stream, picnic table and shelter. A short, steep track descends from the campsite to Mangatutu Hot Springs. Thermal water issues from a deep hole in an undercut bank near the top terrace. The water trickles down a riverside bluff, where it is channelled into two pools. From Napier, follow Puketitiri Road for 40 km, then turn into Pakaututu Road. Follow this for 9 km then turn into Makahu Road and follow this for a further 10 km to the end. The trip involves about 1 hr of travel on unsealed gravel roads, as well as a river ford on Makahu Road 7.5 km from the road end. Take care when driving through the ford as heavy rain and snow melt can affect the water level. The road is narrow, and may be slippery when wet. Check with Hastings District Council (external site) for temporary road closures. Makahu Road is not suitable for caravans or campervans. Fires are not permitted at any time. No dogs.