Mangatutu Hot Springs, New Zealand

What it is

Mangatutu Hot Springs are small natural hot pools beside the Mohaka River at Mangatutu Hot Springs Campsite in Kaweka Forest Park. DOC describes thermal water issuing from a deep hole in an undercut bank, trickling down a riverside bluff and being channelled into two pools. This is not a commercial hot pools venue. It’s a backcountry-adjacent soak with basic campsite facilities, no staff, and conditions that can change with weather and river levels.

What makes it distinct

The reward-to-effort ratio can be excellent. You can drive most of the way (no long tramp required), then do a short, steep descent to the pools. You get a real river valley setting, birdlife, and a soak that feels properly “out there” without committing to a multi-day trip. DOC also provides exact coordinates for the campsite location, which is helpful because cell coverage can be patchy and back roads can be confusing.

What to expect

Expect rustic. Two small pools, natural edges, slippery ground, and no lifeguards. If the river is high, the track down can feel sketchy and the pools may be affected. The best visits are unhurried and weather-aware.

Mangatutu Hot Springs Campsite is reached via Makahu Road, which DOC describes as involving about an hour of travel on unsealed gravel roads. DOC also notes a river ford on Makahu Road 7.5 km from the road end, and warns that heavy rain and snow melt can affect water level. The road is steep and narrow in places and may be slippery when wet, and DOC states it is not suitable for caravans or campervans. Plan accordingly, especially if you are driving a rental with low clearance.

From the campsite, a short, steep track descends to the hot springs. Treat it like a small hike: wear footwear with real grip, keep your hands free, and do not rush. After rain, assume mud and slick roots. Pack a towel, dry clothes, and a bag for wet gear. Bring drinking water and food, and do not rely on last-minute shops, you are well away from services.

Seasonality matters. In winter, expect ice on shaded road sections and colder air after soaking. In wet weather, the ford and side creeks are the decision points. If the ford looks unsafe, turn around. DOC also suggests checking for road closures with Hastings District Council, which is worth doing if the region has had heavy rain.

Use DOC’s posted latitude and longitude for navigation, and download offline maps before you leave reception range.

This is best for confident travellers who are comfortable driving remote gravel roads and handling a short steep track. It suits campers, anglers, and road-trippers who want a free soak and do not need facilities beyond toilets and a basic campsite setup. Families can visit, but only if adults are hands-on. Natural hot pools are not controlled environments, and the river setting adds extra risk.

For families, keep expectations practical. The track down is steep, the pool edges are natural, and the Mohaka River is close. Keep children within arm’s reach around the water and keep soak rounds short, kids often overheat and then get chilled once they get out into wind. Bring warm layers and a hot drink for after. If your group is not comfortable with the ford or the steep descent, this is the day to choose a paid venue closer to town instead.

Mobility realities are clear: this is not wheelchair accessible. Access involves remote road travel, then a short but steep track to natural pools with uneven edges. If someone needs step-free access, stable railings, or assisted entry, this site will be frustrating at best and unsafe at worst.

Expectations vs reality: you may arrive to find the pools busy with campers, or the track slippery after rain. Treat it as a weather-dependent outing. The best way to enjoy Mangatutu is to go early, move slowly, and keep a flexible plan for the return drive.

The risks here are the full backcountry mix: driving hazards, river hazards, slips, and heat stress. DOC warns about the river ford on Makahu Road and notes that rain and snow melt can raise water levels. If the ford is high, fast, or unclear, do not cross. Turning back is the correct safety move. Also drive for the road, not your ego, Makahu Road is steep, narrow, and can be slippery when wet, and DOC says it is not suitable for caravans or campervans.

At the springs, footing is the main immediate hazard. The track down is short and steep, and the pool edges are natural. Wear grippy footwear, keep your balance, and avoid carrying loose gear in your hands. Test water temperature before sitting, natural pools can have hotter pockets. Keep your head above water, do not swallow water, and do not soak for long stretches without breaks. If you feel dizzy, get out, cool down, and drink water.

River safety matters. The Mohaka can rise quickly and the banks can be undercut. Keep children away from the river edge and avoid soaking during or right after heavy rain when flow is higher. If the river is noisy, brown, or moving fast, treat it as a signal to keep the whole visit conservative.

Etiquette is simple but important at small pools. Share space, keep noise down, and do not “improve” the pools by digging, damming, or moving large rocks. That damages the site and can make footing worse. Pack out everything you bring in, including food scraps and bottles. Finally, do not use soap or shampoo in the pools. It’s a fragile riverside environment and the residue goes straight into the valley system.

Is there an entry fee?

No. DOC lists Mangatutu Hot Springs Campsite as free, with first-come, first-served camping. The soak itself has no ticketing or on-site payment.

How do I get there?

DOC directs visitors via Makahu Road, with about an hour on unsealed gravel roads and a river ford 7.5 km from the road end. The road is steep and narrow in places and not suitable for caravans or campervans.

How hard is the walk to the pools?

DOC describes a short, steep track from the campsite down to the springs. It’s brief, but it can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear grippy footwear.

Is it safe after heavy rain?

Be cautious. DOC notes that heavy rain and snow melt can raise the level at the river ford and affect access. If the ford or side creeks are high, do not cross and do not start the trip.

What should I bring?

Towel, dry clothes, warm layer for after, and drinking water and food. Download offline maps and use DOC’s coordinates, because reception can be unreliable. Bring a bag for wet gear and pack out all rubbish.