By Natalie Stewart, 20 June 2025
For Matariki weekend (22nd June 2025), we headed north to the Mangatutu Hot Springs a hidden gem tucked away in the Kaweka Forest Park. With tents packed and spirits high, we arrived at the campsite just in time to settle in for an evening under the stars. There’s nothing quite like soaking in steaming hot springs, surrounded by bush and mountains, with the night sky sparkling above.
The next morning, after a relaxed breakfast, we packed up and began the Te Puia Track along the Mohaka River. The track winds through native bush, following the river upstream, and after a couple of hours we stopped at Te Puia Hut for lunch. It’s a great rest spot, with plenty of space for groups and incredible views of the valley. 
From there, we carried on for another 45 minutes to Mangatainoka Campsite, a sandy clearing by the river. We pitched our tents just in time to dodge a light shower, then set out to explore. A few of the crew (Rewa and Lochie) trail-ran up to Makino Hut, while the rest of us focused on what we were really there for the hot pools. 
These pools are rustic, free to use, and completely surrounded by bush. Fiberglass tubs are fed by a hot waterfall through a pipe, meaning you can adjust the temperature yourself. It feels like a wild, natural spa peaceful, remote, and incredibly rewarding after a day’s hiking.
Dinner that night was mushroom risotto, eaten around camp as the air cooled and the warmth from the pools slowly faded. Of course, most of us ended up hopping back in for another soak before bed it’s too good not to!
The final morning was a slow and lazy one. We packed up camp, wandered back along the track, and returned to the Mangatutu carpark, where the first set of hot springs is just a short walk from the cars. From there, it was a long 6–7 hour drive back to Wellington, arriving home around 10pm tired but completely refreshed.
Final Thoughts
This was the perfect Matariki escape: a mix of hiking, camping, and relaxing in natural hot springs. The best part? You don’t even have to hike if you don’t want to—the Mangatutu springs by the carpark are just as magical. Whether you’re after a backcountry adventure or an easy soak under the stars, this spot is well worth adding to your list.
More photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/gScgh4a2qttKN1mj9