Last updated June 2026
Mount Ngongotahā Scenic Reserve is a Department of Conservation reserve on the volcanic dome of Ngongotahā that overlooks Rotorua from the west. The reserve rises to 757 metres and features two main walking tracks that can be combined or done separately. The easy Mt Ngongotahā Nature Loop Track is a bush circuit through native forest, while the Mt Ngongotahā Jubilee Track climbs to the summit for views over Rotorua and the surrounding lakes. Both tracks start from the Violet Bonnington Reserve at the Rotorua end of Paradise Valley Road, about 15 minutes by car from the city centre. Entry is free and the tracks are open year-round for walking only.
Practical Information
| Location | Violet Bonnington Reserve, Paradise Valley Road — approximately 15 minutes from central Rotorua |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Nature Loop Track | Easy bush loop; begins and ends at Violet Bonnington Reserve; through native forest with interpretation panels |
| Jubilee Track | Moderate to challenging; only walking track to the 757 m summit; mountain biking not permitted |
| Entry | Free |
| Summit elevation | 757 metres above sea level |
| Access | 15-minute drive from Rotorua city centre; parking at Violet Bonnington Reserve |
About Mount Ngongotahā Scenic Reserve
Mount Ngongotahā is a volcanic dome formed from viscous rhyolite lava. Its rounded shape and bush-covered slopes give little indication of this origin from the forest floor. The reserve protects native forest close to Rotorua and provides accessible walking opportunities with good birdlife.
The Nature Loop Track is an easy bush loop that ascends gradually through native forest. Interpretation panels along the track provide information about the natural and cultural features of the area. Visitors can listen for native birds including tūī, korimako (bellbird) and kākā. A highlight is a 40-metre tall rātā tree with a viewing platform, one of the largest in the Bay of Plenty region.
The Jubilee Track continues from the Nature Loop to the summit. The first section follows an easy grade through unlogged native bush before becoming moderately steep. At the summit, telecommunications infrastructure occupies the site, but clear days offer wide views over Rotorua, Lake Rotorua, the central North Island volcanic plateau and the Tongariro peaks to the south.
The original Jubilee Track was cut on Jubilee Day, 29 January 1890. Forest and Bird later purchased adjacent land, and the Mount Ngongotahā Bush Restoration Trust developed the connecting track from Violet Bonnington Reserve. The reserve covers 527 hectares and is managed primarily for scenic and recreational values.
Walking Tracks and Visitor Experience
The Nature Loop Track is ideal for families or school groups and takes less time than the full summit walk. It begins and finishes at Violet Bonnington Reserve and offers a scenic lookout with views across Rotorua city and Mount Tarawera. The full round trip combining both tracks is a satisfying half-day outing through continuous native bush.
Walkers should be prepared with sturdy footwear, water, rain protection and sun protection. The upper sections of the Jubilee Track are steeper and more demanding. No mountain biking is permitted on either track. Dogs are not allowed in the reserve.
What Visitors Often Say
The Jubilee Track offers a rewarding half-day walk from Rotorua with native bush throughout, good birdlife and panoramic summit views on clear days. The large rātā tree near the start is a standout feature.
The Nature Loop is an easy, family-friendly option close to town with informative panels and pleasant forest scenery. The full summit walk provides a satisfying challenge and excellent views over the lakes district.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Mt Ngongotahā Jubilee Track: Official details on the track to the summit, access and preparation.
DOC — Mt Ngongotahā Nature Loop Track: Official information on the easy bush loop and features.
DOC — Mount Ngongotahā Scenic Reserve: Overview of the reserve and walking options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Mount Ngongotahā Scenic Reserve?
The tracks start from the Violet Bonnington Reserve at the Rotorua end of Paradise Valley Road, approximately 15 minutes by car from the Rotorua city centre.
How long does the Jubilee Track take?
The combined Nature Loop and Jubilee Track to the summit is a moderate to challenging walk that typically takes around two to three hours return depending on fitness and pace.
Is the walk free?
Yes, both tracks in Mount Ngongotahā Scenic Reserve are free DOC walks with no entry fee.
What native birds can I see?
Tūī, korimako (bellbird) and kākā are present in the native forest. The large rātā trees provide nectar that attracts birds during flowering.
What is notable about the rātā tree on the track?
A 40-metre tall rātā with a viewing platform is one of the largest in the Bay of Plenty region and is visible early on the walk from Violet Bonnington Reserve.
What are the views from the summit?
From the 757 m summit there are views over Rotorua and Lake Rotorua, the surrounding lake district and, on clear days, the Tongariro volcanic peaks to the south.
Can I mountain bike on the tracks?
No, mountain biking is not permitted on the Nature Loop Track or the Jubilee Track.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not allowed in Mount Ngongotahā Scenic Reserve.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
