Last updated November 2026
The Mangaone Caves Track follows a poled route over private farmland near Nuhaka to the open-access Mangaone Caves, where limestone features include stalactites, stalagmites and calcite wall coverings.
DOC grades it Easy to intermediate and gives 25 min one way, but notes the first steep hill needs a good level of fitness, and you should allow extra time to explore the cave.
The track starts from a signposted grassy roadside area 6 km up the narrow, unsealed Mangaone Road, off SH2. It is about 69 km from Gisborne by road (DOC gives 40 km from Wairoa). DOC says the caves suit people without caving experience if they take care and carry the right gear.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Mangaone Caves Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Signposted grassy roadside parking, 6 km up Mangaone Road off SH2
- Distance from the city
- About 69 km from Gisborne by road
- Walking time
- 25 min one way (plus time in the cave)
- Track length
- 582 m one way
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Gear
- Head torch per person, spare batteries, sturdy footwear; helmet recommended
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Mangaone Caves Track
The track is an unformed, poled route across open farmland that can be wet, muddy and slippery, with some narrow, rutted sections. Keep to the poles, leave gates as you find them and walk around any cattle or sheep.
After the first steep section there are views of the coast, and on a clear day DOC says you can see as far as Māhia.
The area has limestone bluffs and holes, and staying on the route keeps you clear of steep drop-offs. The cave entrance is narrow and slippery, and you step over a small hole to get in.
DOC notes the cave will not be suitable for all ages.
The Caves
Steps lead into the main cavern, which is about 40 m long. Its floor is very muddy and slippery, and a section is usually ankle-deep in water, rising during or after heavy rain.
Two side passages sit about 3 m above the main floor and are reached by ladders, and the side caves have tight squeezes. The roof is low in places.
Ngāti Rākaipaaka is the tribal affiliation to the caves, and DOC asks visitors to treat these taonga with respect. The formations took thousands of years to form and break easily, so don’t touch or remove them, and leave all living things and fossils in place.
Cave Safety
DOC says to carry a head torch for each person plus spare batteries: “Do not rely on your phone torch.” Wear sturdy footwear with good grip, and a helmet or hard hat is recommended.
DOC warns: “Take care getting from the ladders to the side caves, as there is a gap with a steep drop.” “Children must be supervised at all times”, and they need hands-on help at the ladders. Mangaone Road is narrow, winding and unsealed, and logging trucks use it. Check DOC before you go.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Mangaone Caves 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: Wairoa area: other DOC places around Wairoa and Nuhaka.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to reach Mangaone Caves?
DOC gives 25 min one way. Allow extra time to explore the cave.
How hard is the walk?
DOC grades it Easy to intermediate, but the first steep hill needs a good level of fitness and the route can be muddy.
What should I bring?
A head torch for each person, spare batteries, sturdy footwear with good grip, and ideally a helmet.
Can kids go in the caves?
Yes, with care. DOC says children must be supervised at all times and need hands-on help at the ladders.
Can I take my dog?
No dogs.
Where do I park?
On the signposted grassy area beside Mangaone Road, 6 km from SH2. The turnoff is about 4 km north of Nuhaka or 5 km south of Mōrere Springs.
Will I get wet?
DOC says to expect to get muddy and wet. Part of the main cavern is usually ankle-deep in water.
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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.