Image: Jonty Crane | Creative Commons
Concrete pathway through trees.
Mt Ngongotaha Jubilee Track

Located in Mount Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve in the Bay of Plenty region

The only walking track up to the summit of Mt Ngongotaha. Passes through native forest with views of one of the largest rata trees in the Bay of Plenty.

The first part of the walk follows an easy grade through unlogged native bush, which features a large rata tree (40 m tall with a 1.8 m girth) with a viewing platform. It continues on the Mt Ngongotaha Nature Loop Track.

When you reach the Jubilee Track the walk becomes moderately steep until near the summit. Once Mountain Rd is reached it is a short walk to the summit.

The track to the summit of Ngongotaha starts from the Violet Bonnington Reserve located at the Rotorua end of Paradise Valley road. This is a 15 minute drive from the city centre.

This track is available for walking only - mountain biking is not permitted.

You will need to be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on the longer day walks. Ensure you have strong, comfortable boots, warm clothing, a good raincoat, first aid kit, food and drink, a hat and sunscreen. It is also advisable to leave your tramping intentions with a responsible person, in case you get lost.

The original Jubilee Track was cut on Jubilee Day, January 29 1890, marking 50 years since Captain Hobson arrived at Waitangi. It needed to be reached over private land with Forest and Bird purchasing the land adjacent. The Mount Ngongotaha Bush Restoration Trust then developed a connecting track from the Violet Bonnington Reserve to the bottom of the Jubilee Track.