Matemateaonga Track Transport
Track Info
Using an old settler dray road, you are able to penetrate deep into the wilderness of Whanganui National Park along the Matemateaonga Track. A lot of people look at walking this track then flag the idea because of the transport and arrangements required. The walk takes 3-4 days along the crest of the range, under the canopy of bush. A link with the age of pioneers only on foot and some along this very trail.
The Matemateaonga Track is a well-defined, track standard for people of good average fitness.
In the interest of safety "other tracks" adjacent to the walkway should be regarded as being of route standard only. There are four huts located at 6km, 19km, 29km, and 42km points.
History
The areas of four Maori tribes converge at the Matemateaonga Range, Nga Rauru (Waitotara) Ngati Ruanui (Patea) Ngati Maru (Upper Waitara) and Ngati Hau (Upper Whanganui).
A map was drawn by surveyor H Skeet in 1907 shows that the route, now the walkway, was originally a Maori foot track. There was no permanent population, heavy frosts made Kumara cultivation very difficult. It is thought the tribes came seasonally to this area to quarry rock. The demand for stone adzes fell away with the arrival of Europeans and the introduction of steel.
Matemateaonga Track Walking times and points of interest
- Kohi Saddle - Omaru Hut: 6kms 1.5-2 hours
- Kohi Saddle - Pouri Hut: 19kms 6 hours
- Pouri Hut - Ngapurua Hut: 10kms 3 hours
- Pouri - Puketotara Hut: 21kms 7-8 hours
- Puketotara - River: 1.5 hours
- Ngapurua Hut - River: allow 5 hours
Mt Humphries Junction approx 14km point - summit 1.5 hours return. Mt Humphries is 739m, views of all North Island mountains and three National Parks are magnificent on a good day.
We offer a complete 'Package Deal'
- Transport to and from the Matemateaonga Track
- Car storage in Stratford
- Hut passes
- Jet boat ride to Pipiriki and can include a Bridge To Nowhere visit
Ask about the Bridge To Nowhere and Bridge to Somewhere visits.
Egmont National Park Transport
Stratford is the 'Gateway' to the Egmont National Park and only 14kms away from the Mountain House.
Our Egmont National Park transport offer is to any road end in the Park. Ask us about walking from one road end to another. 1-2 day options.
See our cycle tours page for cycling options
Does 'Round the mountain' interest you?
Packages available for transport (Drop off and pick up), Hut passes and car storage. Maps available.
Note: Prices are ALL whole group prices from Stratford , $40.00-$60.00 1-5 people depending on road end
New Plymouth Airport Transfers
We offer on demand pick up and drop off to New Plymouth airport. We have a shuttle van and trailer. Discounted for Stratford Heritage Lodge guests.
