The Mauao Summit Walk is a steep, 40-minute hike up to the highest point in Mount Maunganui. But the jaw-dropping 360° views over the Western Bay of Plenty make it worth your time and energy.

Track overview

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 2 km return

Time: 40 minutes one way

There are two main tracks to the summit, and both require a decent level of fitness. On your way up, you’ll pass plenty of locals who use the Mount as their daily workout. One day, I swear I’ll move here and join the ‘Mount cult’ myself! Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, Matakana Island, and Papamoa.

Mauao Summit Track is stunning at any time of day. But I'll rave about hiking up for sunrise to anyone who will listen. There’s something extra special about being up there to welcome the first light of a new day. If you plan to catch the sunrise, I recommend reaching the summit at least 30 minutes before it rises over the horizon. It’s a popular spot, so arriving early gives you the best views and a gorg place to sit and take it all in.

However, if the summit track sounds a little too intense, the Mauao Base Track is a fantastic alternative. It doesn't have the same views, but it is beautiful in its own right.