Hapauwhenua Viaducts (via Marshalls Road Carpark)
Tucked just outside Ohakune in Tongariro National Park, this walk takes you along a section of the historic Ohakune Old Coach Road—a trail rich in railway history, native bush, and wide-open countryside views.
Starting from Marshalls Road Carpark, the track leads you to the iconic Hapauwhenua Viaducts.
Track Details
- Distance: ~7.2 km return (4.5 miles)
- Time: ~2–2.5 hours return
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Track type: Out & back
- Best for: Walking, trail running, mountain biking
This is a well-formed track with gradual climbs, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
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| Photo grabbed from DOC |
Getting There
Drive to Marshalls Road Carpark, about 5–10 minutes from Ohakune town centre. Parking is free and easy to find.
What to Expect Along the Way
1. Rolling Farmland Views
The trail begins with open landscapes overlooking the Ohakune Basin—wide skies, grazing land, and a peaceful rural feel.
2. Native Bush & Forest
You’ll transition into lush native forest filled with rimu, mataī, kahikatea, and tree ferns.
3. Historic Coach Road
Keep an eye out for original cobblestones (called “setts”)—remnants of early 1900s road construction.
4. The Tunnel
A short detour takes you through the atmospheric Hapauwhenua Tunnel—dark and slightly eerie.
5. The Viaducts (Highlight!)
You’ll eventually reach the stunning Hapauwhenua Viaducts:
- The old steel viaduct (1908) – now a walking bridge
- The new concrete viaduct (1987) towering nearby
Walking across the old viaduct is the moment—views into the valley below are incredible.
Things to Know
- No dogs allowed.
- Track can be muddy or slippery after rain.
- Shared with mountain bikers—stay aware.
What to Bring
- Good walking shoes
- Water & snacks
- Light jacket
This walk is an underrated gem—less dramatic than alpine hikes, but rich in history. You’re not just walking a trail—you’re walking a piece of New Zealand’s railway past.
GALLERY
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