The first stage of Te Ara Mangawhero, a 21.4km eco-tourism trail, has officially opened, connecting Tūroa and Ohakune on the slopes of Maunga Ruapehu. This new section strengthens the Mountains to Sea route, providing a unique opportunity for hikers and cyclists to explore one of New Zealand’s most striking landscapes.
The trail stretches from the alpine environment near Tūroa to the historic Ohakune Old Coach Road, following the old Bennett and Punch bush tramway. It crosses the Mangawhero Stream, with several bridges offering views of Maunga Ruapehu. This is a journey through both history and nature, with the landscape shifting from high-country terrain to lush bush.
Te Ara Mangawhero is the result of a collaboration between Ngāti Rangi, local communities, and regional authorities, and was developed with sustainability in mind. Construction focused on minimizing environmental impact, including using eco-friendly materials and replanting native species in the surrounding ngahere.
Whanganui District Mayor Andrew Tripe, who chairs the Mountains to Sea Partnership, called the opening a major step forward. “This is a world-class addition to the Great Ride, and will bring lasting benefits to both the Ruapehu and Whanganui regions,” he said. Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton predicts the trail will draw up to 50,000 visitors annually, contributing around $36 million to the local economy.
