Last updated June 2026
The Mokaihaha Ecological Area protects approximately 2,000 hectares of podocarp-tawa forest on the Mamaku Plateau, about 9.6 kilometres south-east of Mamaku township and roughly 30 kilometres from Rotorua. Managed by the Department of Conservation, the reserve preserves the largest remaining block of the native forest that once covered the plateau, with tall rimu, miro, matai, tawa and dense tree ferns. It supports a recovering population of the endangered North Island kōkako along with other native birds such as tūī, kererū, kākā and bellbirds, plus short-tailed bats. The area also holds rich Māori history, including historic trails between the Waikato and Rotorua.
Practical Information
| Location | South Road, Mamaku — 9.6 km south-east of Mamaku township; ~30 km from Rotorua |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Tracks | Mokaihaha Track options to Lake Rotohokahoka (20 minutes) and West Road (2 hours); moderate |
| Entry | Free |
| Prohibited | Dogs, horses, vehicles (including bikes and motorbikes), fires, removal of plants or animals; hunting requires a permit |
| Getting there | From Rotorua: SH5 north 1 km, left onto Dansey Road to Mamaku, left onto South Road by Mamaku School; track starts 9.6 km along South Road |
About Mokaihaha Ecological Area
Mokaihaha Ecological Area lies on the Mamaku Plateau and safeguards one of the best remaining examples of the extensive podocarp forest that once blanketed the region. Podocarp trees such as rimu, miro and matai rise above a canopy of tawa, while the forest floor supports healthy seedlings and a thick understorey of crown ferns and tree ferns. The reserve’s size and forest quality have allowed it to retain significant ecological values despite historical logging pressure on the plateau.
The area is rich in Māori history. Several trails once used for travel between the Waikato and Rotorua pass through the forest, adding cultural depth to the natural setting. Short-tailed bats also inhabit the reserve, contributing to its biodiversity alongside the birdlife.
Visitor experience centres on quiet immersion in mature native forest. Early morning visits increase the chance of hearing the distinctive calls of kōkako and other species. The terrain is generally gentle on the old tramway alignments, though roots and occasional wet sections require sturdy footwear and care.
The Mokaihaha Track
The Mokaihaha Track begins at the South Road car park and offers several options. Walkers can reach Lake Rotohokahoka in about 20 minutes, continue to West Road in roughly 2 hours, or take a signposted side loop that returns to South Road. The route follows historic alignments through some of the densest forest sections, passing large podocarps and providing good opportunities to listen for native birds. The track is not suitable for mountain biking.
Kōkako at Mokaihaha
Mokaihaha supports a kōkako population that survived without intensive management longer than most others in the country. Since around 2015 the Mokaihaha Kōkako Trust has worked with DOC to implement systematic predator control and monitoring, aiding population recovery. The birds are more often heard than seen; their organ-like calls carry through the forest, especially at dawn. Patient visitors may glimpse the distinctive blue wattles and grey plumage in the canopy.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers appreciate the mature podocarp forest and the chance to hear kōkako and other native birds in a relatively quiet setting. Many note the gentle grades on the old tramway routes and the sense of walking through a large, intact forest block.
Reviewers highlight the peaceful atmosphere and good birdlife, while cautioning that the track can be muddy after rain and that early starts improve wildlife encounters. The reserve is valued for its ecological significance rather than dramatic scenery.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation — Mokaihaha Ecological Area: official information on access, track descriptions, and conservation values.
Mokaihaha Kōkako Trust: community group updates on kōkako monitoring and pest control work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Mokaihaha Ecological Area?
On South Road, 9.6 km south-east of Mamaku township. From Rotorua take SH5 north for 1 km, turn left onto Dansey Road to Mamaku, then left onto South Road by Mamaku School.
How long is the Mokaihaha Track?
Options include 20 minutes to Lake Rotohokahoka or about 2 hours to West Road. The track follows historic routes through podocarp forest and is rated moderate.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Dogs, horses, vehicles including bikes and motorbikes, fires, and removal of plants or animals are prohibited. Hunting requires a permit.
Can I see kōkako at Mokaihaha?
Hearing the birds is more common than seeing them, especially on early morning visits. The population is actively managed by the Mokaihaha Kōkako Trust in partnership with DOC.
Is entry free?
Yes. The ecological area is free to visit.
What birds might I hear?
Expect tūī, kererū, bellbirds, fantails and kākā. The endangered kōkako may also be heard, along with occasional short-tailed bat activity at dusk.
Is the track suitable for mountain biking?
No. The Mokaihaha Track is not suitable for mountain biking.
Are there facilities at the track start?
There is a car park at the South Road entrance. No other facilities are provided; visitors should be prepared with water, food and appropriate clothing.
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