Wharepuhunga: Trails, Forest and History

Real Native is located in Wharepūhunga, in the northern foothills of Pureora Forest Park. The 3-Day Walk covers 39 km of selected trails. Route options from 10 to 18 km take you along narrow bush tracks, open grassland trails and forested sections beneath a dense canopy. Planning therefore depends on both the possible route length and the different types of terrain.

Trails and stops along the Real Native route

Along the Real Native route, the trail follows the Puniu River to the accommodation for the first overnight stay. The booked walk also includes a visit to the historic Fencers Hut and Māori Terraces, as well as the Deer Sanctuary. It also offers the opportunity to visit a historic fortified pā site. Alongside the bush and grassland sections, these destinations give the walk its own historical and cultural focus.

The Buried River is an underground section of the Mangatutu Stream along the Real Native route. A well-marked detour bypasses the Buried River and rejoins the main trail; access to this route is provided as part of the booked walk. Leveson’s Loop can also be explored as part of the booked walk, providing access to 250 hectares of privately owned, untouched native rainforest.

Getting there and planning

Real Native is accessible only via a private gravel road. The adventure begins at 10 am with a meet-and-greet at the Red Woolshed. Confirm the arrival details before booking. The private access road and fixed starting point are important details to consider when planning, before choosing one of the walks on offer.

Winter Wonder and different trail lengths

Real Native’s Winter Wonder requires an exclusive two-day stay at Puniu Lodge or Shepherds Rest. It includes a choice of three trails, each 5 to 12 km long and available to explore from the accommodation. This offer differs from the 3-Day Walk, with its 39 km of selected trails and route options from 10 to 18 km, in terms of both the stay and the choice of trails. Check the offer details before booking.

Mangatutu Stream in the surrounding area

In the surrounding area, the Mangatutu Stream is designated as a waterway for artificial fly fishing from its source to the Lethbridge Road Bridge. The designation describes the type of fishing; check regulations and access conditions again before planning. The Mangatutu Stream Reserve is accessed after 20 km along Wharepuhunga Road, by turning onto Duncan Road. There are no developed trails from the access point. Check current access conditions and trail markers before setting off.

More topics in the wider destination of Otorohanga District

In the wider destination of Otorohanga District, you’ll find other distinct cultural and nature experiences. Ōtorohanga Kiwi House & Native Bird Park is a major breeding centre for kiwis and tuatara. In Ōtorohanga, the Ed Hillary Walkway connects Maniapoto Street with Wahanui Crescent and the historic Ōtorohanga Railway Station. The walkway features murals, corrugated iron kiwi sculptures and Kiwiana exhibition modules. Ngā Whare Taonga o Ōtorohanga includes a collection of historic pioneer buildings. Kāwhia Harbour is the site of the historic landing place of the Tainui waka; the sheltered beaches on the inner harbour are suitable for swimming and kayaking.

Discover more destinations: Otorohanga, Kawhia.

View the wider travel guide: Otorohanga District.