Responsible Visiting Information for Mt Pirongia

To visit Mt Pirongia responsibly…

prepare for any weather, wear sturdy footwear, carry essentials like a first-aid kit and water, and tell someone your intentions. Always stay on marked tracks, as non-orange markers are for pest control. 

Before you go

• Check the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions with warm, waterproof clothing, a hat, and sunscreen.

• Tell someone: Inform a friend or family member of your plans, including your destination and expected return time.

• Pack essentials: Carry a first-aid kit, sufficient food and water, and insect repellent in warmer weather.

• Choose the right track: Select a walk that matches your group's fitness and skill level. 

On the mountain

• Follow the tracks: Stick to the designated orange-marked tracks. Do not follow any other markers, as they are for pest control.

• Stay on the path: Help protect native plants and prevent the spread of kauri disease by staying on the tracks and using the cleaning stations to scrub soil off your boots and gear.

• Be water-wise: Carry enough drinking water, especially for higher-level tracks where it can be difficult to find.

• Know the difficulty: Track times are estimates and can vary based on conditions. Be prepared for a more challenging hike on steeper routes. 

Safety and preparedness

• Wear proper footwear: Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes or boots.

• Bring a map: While tracks are marked, having a map is always a good idea, especially for longer or more challenging routes. You can obtain maps from visitor information centers.

• Be aware of your surroundings: Enjoy the majestic forests and birdlife, but always be mindful of the conditions and your own limits

REMEMBER

• Take water with you, few of the tracks have streams nearby.

• Always travel in a group and leave trip details with someone reliable. Let them know when you return.

• Pets are not allowed in the park. Hunting dogs are only allowed with a permit.

• Always carry a change of clothes, waterproofs and extra food in case of an emergency.

• Take all rubbish home with you.