Lake Dive tracks

The picturesque Mangōraukawa / Lake Dive lies at the foot of the upper Beehive, a cumulo dome created when lava welled up and congealed before it could burst through.

There are two options to get to Mangōraukawa / Lake Dive – the upper and lower Lake Dive tracks. You can combine the tracks to make a 13 km loop track.

Upper Lake Dive Track

Distance 4.2 km
Time: 3-4 hr

From the road end at Dawson Falls the upper Lake Dive Track follows Fanthams Peak Track through forest to the junction with the Lower Lake Dive Track.

Here the track turns right and steadily climbs up steps, past the Hilary Seat, Hooker Shelter, and Kapuni Lodge Track to approximately 1500 m altitude. At the junction, the Lake Dive Track heads left to follow marker poles across exposed alpine tussock slopes before descending steeply down to the lake.

The upper section of this track is exposed to the weather and requires ice axe and crampons in winter conditions.

Lower Lake Dive Track

Distance: 6.2 km
Time: 3-4 hr

From Dawson Falls Road end, the Lower Lake Dive Track follows Fanthams Peak Track then branches left at the junction, passing Hastie’s Hill, undulating through forest and crossing many unbridged streams before arriving at the lake.

This track is more protected from the weather than the Upper Lake Dive Track, but it has unbridged stream crossings that can make it impassable in bad weather.

There used to be a Lake Dive Hut, but it burnt down in 2020.

Start this track from the Dawson Falls road end.

1. Starting in Stratford, turn off State Highway 23 into Celia Street, which becomes Opunake Road.
2. Follow this for 14 km, then turn right into Manaia Road.
3. Continue on this road for 9 km up the mountain to Dawson Falls Visitor Centre.

Be prepared for changeable weather

Weather on the mountain changes rapidly – you must be well prepared with suitable clothing and equipment for all weather and conditions.

Snow, high rainfall and storm damage can make tracks impassable – many rivers and streams are unbridged.

Check the Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki weather forecast before you go.

Expect challenging track conditions

The upper track is very exposed and not recommended in winter unless parties are equipped with ice axe and crampons. It is better to return on the lower track during this time of year.

Expect overgrown sections of track and some erosion in places.

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely