Aongatete: Forest walks, swimming spots and gin tasting

Near Aongatete, short loop walks sit alongside a roughly half-day hike and a track to natural swimming spots and the North South Track. Walking time, trail character and weather are the main factors to consider when choosing. Aongatete also offers a tasting experience at Matahui Tasting Experience.

Walking trails by time and character

Four Aongatete walking trails start near the education centre. The Aongatete Nature Trail is a 15-minute, 640-metre loop. Information panels cover forest layers, the geology of the Kaimai Range, conservation and pests. The panels give the short loop a thematic focus beyond its length. The trails therefore share a common reference point, while varying in time and character.

The Aongatete Short Loop Walk takes one hour and is a 2.2-kilometre loop. It passes through lowland forest and is an easier, well-formed track through bush.

The Aongatete Long Loop Walk passes through lowland forest as a roughly half-day hike; as a return trip, it takes 3.5 hours and covers 6.4 kilometres. Short, moderately steep sections and stream crossings are part of the trail.

Comparing walking times

If the time available for walking is the deciding factor, the loop walks differ clearly: the Nature Trail takes 15 minutes, the Short Loop one hour, and the Long Loop takes 3.5 hours as a return trip. The distances also increase from 640 metres to 2.2 kilometres and then 6.4 kilometres. This makes it possible to compare the scale of each walk independently of the different trail features.

Landscape and trail conditions

The walking trails near Aongatete pass through puriri and kohekohe forest alongside the Aongatete Stream. On the Long Loop, stream crossings can be dangerous during or after heavy rain. The Aongatete Link Track can become slippery in wet weather; sturdy footwear with good grip is recommended. River and swimming conditions vary with the weather. Check local conditions before setting out, especially at crossings and near the water.

Swimming spots and the North South Track

The Aongatete Link Track leads to natural swimming spots and can be used as an alternative route to the North South Track. The swimming spots are about 1.7 kilometres from the car park; walking time is about 45 minutes and may vary depending on conditions. The Link Track leads from the car park to the North South Track in about an hour. These times refer to different destinations. When choosing a route, you are also deciding whether the swimming spots or the connection to the North South Track will be the main focus.

Gin tasting in Aongatete

The Matahui Tasting Experience in Aongatete includes tastings of three premium gins and three liqueurs, as well as a mini cocktail. If you plan to include this activity in your trip, check availability in advance.

Discover more destinations: Whakamarama, Waihi Beach, Athenree, Te Puke, Katikati, Pukehina, Paengaroa, Te Puna.

For the broader travel overview: Western Bay of Plenty District.