PLAN YOUR TRIP
YOUR JOURNEY TO MAUNGA HIKURANGI
A once in a lifetime experience that will bring you to the heart of our people.
With both the sunrise and day tours commencing from the base of Maunga Hikurangi at Ruatoria, you will traverse remote backcountry and cross a private working farm known as Pakihiroa Station.
Whether you arrive from Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty or Gisborne in Tairāwhiti, your trip to Maunga Hikurangi will be an unforgettable one. Haere mai, welcome!
DRIVE
From Gisborne: Take the scenic 2-hour drive north on the iconic State Highway 35. Enjoy breathtaking views of beachside communities, impressive surf spots, and rural landscapes, with the vast Pacific Ocean lining the pristine coastline.
From Rotorua: Embark on a 5-hour drive east from central Rotorua. Travel through the picturesque Bay of Plenty, passing coastal communities, stunning beaches, scenic bays, and lush orchards on your way to Ruatoria.
FLY
Air Ruatoria offers charter services, including flights for various purposes such as business trips or transporting people to different regions.
To making a booking, you can contact Mahanga Maru via mobile (021 2200 737) or email (mahanga@air-ruatoria.nz). The company operates from Ruatoria, East Coast, and is open Monday–Friday from 9 am to 5pm, with shorter weekend hours. For further information, you can visit their website at air-ruatoria.nz.
ACCOMMODATION
TE PUIA SPRINGS MOTEL
The historic grounds of Te Puia Springs Motel offers comfortable, country accommodation that boasts hot mineral pools and bush walks just a short drive from the local beach. With a range of hotel rooms, backpacker and camping options available, Te Puia Springs Hotel is a 25 minute drive to Ruatoria.
HICKS BAY / TE ARAROA MOTEL
Situated about an hour north of Ruatoria in northern Tairāwhiti is the picturesque seaside community of Hicks Bay. Also known as Wharekahika, Hicks Bay offers a range of accommodation options including the Hicks Bay Lodge, Nga Puriri Bed and Breakfast and Te Araroa Holiday Park.
TOKOMARU BAY
The Te Puka Tavern is located 90km from Gisborne on scenic SH35. Nestled by Tokomaru Bay, it's a perfect spot to relax and connect with the friendly locals. Established in 1873 and rebuilt in 1988 after Cyclone Bola, the tavern now offers café and pub fare, modern accommodation, powered parking for camper vans, and a welcoming bar.
See Air Bnb for more options.
ROTOKAUTUKU COTTAGE, RUATORIA
Quiet, rural retreat located 5km north of Ruatoria. The renovated cottage offers one bed, bathroom and kitchen/dining area. See Air bnb for more details.