Exploring Hinehopu/Hongi's Track
Nestled within the Hinehopu Scenic Reserve, Hinehopu/Hongi's Track is a 2.2 km trail that provides a fascinating insight into New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage. This track connects Hinehopu on Lake Rotoiti with Te Pōhue Bay on Lake Rotoehu. A highlight of this walk is the pristine forest featuring ancient rimū, tawa, pukatea, and rewarewa trees. The reserve, a gift from the Ngāti Pikiao iwi to the people of Aotearoa in 1919, has never been logged, preserving its untouched beauty.
Historical Significance of Hinehopu
The track is rich in history, with part of its name referring to Hinehopu, who resided in the area around 1620. She had homes by both lakes. As an infant, Hinehopu was hidden beneath a sacred mataī tree by her mother to shield her from enemies. This significant tree is located approximately 1.7 km along the track and clearly marked beside State Highway 30. It is also the site where Hinehopu met her future husband, Pikiao, marking the origins of the Ngāti Pikiao people.
The Story of Hongi
The track's alternate name, Hongi, recalls the journey of the Ngāpuhi warrior and rangatira, Hongi, during the Musket Wars. In 1823, Hongi and his war party transported their canoes from Lake Rotoehu to Lake Rotoiti. They then paddled across Rotoiti and proceeded to Lake Rotorua to launch a surprise attack on the Arawa people on Mokoia Island. This historical event adds depth to the track's narrative.
How to Get There
To access Hinehopu/Hongi's Track from Rotorua, take State Highway 30 and drive to the east end of Lake Rotoiti. Turn off into Hinehopu on Tmatea Street and continue alongside the lake to the Hinehopu Scenic Reserve, where the track starts. The trail concludes at Te Pōhue Bay on Lake Rotoehu, also near State Highway 30. Another option is to continue on the highway to the sacred mataī tree. From there, you can also access the track from a short loop walk.
There are many other places to explore in the region. At the west end of Lake Rotoiti, you can discover the wonderful Okere Falls Walk, or take one of several loop tracks on the nearby Lake Okataina Road, including the Ngahopua Track and Te Auheke Track.
