Last updated October 2026
The King Hill Reserve Walking Track is an easy, family-friendly walk through native trees and plants in the Mamaku Scenic Reserve, in the township of Mamaku.
DOC describes it as a flat, well-defined track through tawa and rimu, linked to a historic mining site where old pipes are still visible. It can be reached from Karamu Street or Old State Mill Road, and both entrances are signposted.
DOC describes it as an easy short walk and allows 20 minutes. Mamaku is about 16 km from Rotorua, and DOC says the drive takes around 20 minutes.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for King Hill Reserve Walking Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Karamu Street or Old State Mill Road, Mamaku (both entrances signposted)
- Distance from the city
- about 16 km from Rotorua
- Walking time
- 20 min
- Track length
- 300 m one way
- Grade
- Easy
- Parking
- On the side of the road
- Facilities
- No picnic tables or toilets
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About King Hill Reserve Walking Track
This short walk is a pocket of native forest in Mamaku. The track is flat and well defined, winding through tawa and rimu trees, which makes it an easy family outing.
The track also connects to a historic mining site, and some of the old pipes are still visible today, adding a bit of history to a short forest stroll.
With a 20 minute walking time, it suits a quick stop on the way through Mamaku or a short family walk close to Rotorua.
Getting There
Mamaku is about a 20 minute drive from Rotorua via State Highway 5 and Dansey Road, which turns into Tarena Street in the township. Cross the railway line on Mauku Street or South Road and turn into Mamaku Street, where signposted entrances on Karamu Street and Old State Mill Road lead to the walk. Parking is on the roadside.
Track Conditions and Rules
DOC notes the track is known to be muddy after heavy rain, so wear suitable shoes. There are no picnic tables or toilets at the reserve. Motorbikes and bikes are not allowed, and you must not take any vegetation. Check the DOC page for alerts before you go.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: King Hill Reserve Walking Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Mokaihaha Ecological Area: the wider conservation area that includes King Hill Reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the King Hill Reserve Walking Track take?
DOC allows 20 minutes. The track is 300 m one way.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes. DOC describes it as an easy, family-friendly walk on a flat, well-defined track, and calls it an easy short walk.
Where does the walk start?
In Mamaku, from either Karamu Street or Old State Mill Road off Mamaku Street. Both entrances are signposted.
Is there parking or a toilet?
Park on the side of the road. DOC says there are no picnic tables or toilets at the reserve.
What history can I see?
The track connects to a historic mining site, and old pipes are still visible.
Can I bike the track?
No. DOC says bikes and motorbikes are not allowed.
Is the track open?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had no current alerts for this track. It can be muddy after heavy rain, so check the DOC page before you go.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.