After a 10–15 minute walk, the Whakapapanui Walking Track branches to the right (don’t follow
the Whakapapaiti Track sign in error!) and heads downstream. Water-logged clearings are passed as the track follows Whakapapanui Stream. Here, storm damaged beech forest is slowly regenerating.

Keep a look out along the river for the endangered whio/blue duck. They are the same colour as the rocks so can be very difficult to spot, but you may hear the male’s whistling call.

The track comes out at the bridge of SH48 3 km below Whakapapa Village. On fine days, enjoy the views walking back along the highway; on wet/windy days, enjoy the shelter of the forest and return back along the trail.

The track is in Whakapapa Village on SH48. It starts 250 m above the Tongariro National Park
Visitor Centre.

No drones

Unauthorised use of drones is prohibited. You must have a permit to fly a drone.

DOC does not generally approve permits to fly drones in this national park and we do not recommend you apply for one.

Using drones in national parks