From Napier’s coast to the backcountry, discover a journey that weaves through native bush and ends in soothing geothermal pools. Starting from Napier, the trail leads you deep into the backcountry along the Te Puia Track, with native bush, birdsong, and mountain views guiding the way.
At the end of the trail, discover Mangatainoka Hot Springs — natural pools tucked in the forest, their mineral waters steaming in the cool alpine air. After a soothing soak, spend the evening at Te Puia Lodge, where shared meals and a night under star-filled skies complete the day.
The following morning, return to the springs for a final dip before hiking back through the valley. With every step, carry the stillness of the forest and the warmth of the hot pools back to Napier — a memory of Hawke’s Bay that lingers long after the journey ends. Join us for this wild escape where the reward for the trail is a soak in the earth’s own hot springs!
over 12 y.o.
- Local prices – no extra feesBook tours directly from local tour providers
- Verified tour providersAll guides confirm their qualifications
- Reviews from travelersWe monitor the feedback from our travelers after each tour
Tour highlights
Route details
Your guide will meet you at Hawke's Bay Airport, holding a sign with your booking name. From here, the adventure begins with a scenic drive inland toward Mangatainoka Hot Springs. The road carries you through fertile farmland, vineyards, and orchard country before giving way to dense forest and mountain views. Passing through small rural towns, you’ll catch glimpses of everyday Kiwi life before the wilderness gradually takes over.
At the trailhead, lace up your boots and set off into the bush. The track winds beneath tall native trees where sunlight filters through the canopy, birdsong fills the air, and a cool stream guides your path. As steam begins to curl above the forest, anticipation builds — the hot springs are close. Soon, the pools reveal themselves, nestled deep in nature, offering the perfect end to your hike. Slip into the warm mineral waters, surrounded by mist and forest stillness, and let the world fall away.
As evening arrives, settle into Te Puia Hut or pitch a tent beneath the stars for a true backcountry experience. Share a meal, swap stories, and drift off to sleep with the hush of the bush as your lullaby.
Moderate level of physical fitness required
Accommodation
Stay overnight at Te Puia Lodge, surrounded by wilderness, and unwind in the calm atmosphere beneath a star-filled sky.
Tickets to group meeting place
Weather during the tour
- the forecasts for this season
- the statistics from previous years’ trips
Conditions
- transport to and from Hawkes Bay Airport;
- guide;
- accommodation;
- food and drinks.
- flight tickets;
- rental equipment;
- additional activities.
It's important to know
- waterproof jacket;
- waterproof pants;
- warm jumper (fleece/wool/down) x 2;
- thermal base jumper x 2;
- thermal base leggings;
- warm pants (fleece/wool);
- warm gloves;
- warm beanie;
- neck warmer;
- 50l hiking pack;
- 1l+ water reservoir;
- pack liner / rubbish bag x 2;
- hiking boots / trail shoes;
- sleeping bag (4 seasons) -10°c–0°c / 14°f–32°f;
- mattress.
Reviews
Dates and Prices
- Any dates on request during the season1 May – 30 Sep
- from19 – 20 Jul2 days 1 night
- from20 – 21 Jul2 days 1 night
- from21 – 22 Jul2 days 1 night
- from22 – 23 Jul2 days 1 night
- from23 – 24 Jul2 days 1 night
