Can I go to... Mangatutu Hot Springs in Hawke’s Bay?

Hawke's Bay's popular Mangatutu Hot Springs are sourced from a natural hot waterfall. Photo / DoC

The Mangatutu Hot Springs in Kaweka Forest Park was spared the full destruction of Cyclone Gabrielle, and is the ideal spot for a hot soak this summer.

Department of Conservation (DoC) acting operations manager Kathy Houkamau said there had been small changes to the configuration of the access road due to the carnage, but the hotspot is open.

About 90km northwest of Napier, the springs and campsite are a popular and largely natural attraction in Hawke’s Bay and one of the few places left to enjoy thermal pools for free.

DoC warned visitors last year to not engage in drunken revelry after acts of vandalism had them contemplating closing it.

You can access the area through Makahu Road.

When travelling the route, Hawke’s Bay DoC said to apply extra caution to the river ford in particular, as conditions have changed since Cyclone Gabrielle.

River levels are also subject to change, so check for closure on Hastings District Council’s roadworks updates.

Extra caution is also needed when driving due to the narrow and windy nature of the gravel road and a 4WD with good ground clearance is recommended.

As you reach the end of Makahu Rd, 500m from the springs and camping area, is “The Gums” parking area and shelter.

A short, steep track descends from the campsite to the hot springs.

These man-made tiered hot pools are fed by thermal springs. The water trickles down a riverside bluff where it is channelled into two pools.

The campsite near the pools is open this summer and the public are welcome to visit. DoC says as of December 18 a total fire ban is in effect, and with the upcoming dry season, this is something for locals and prospective campers to take seriously.

Dogs for the purpose of hunting, when accompanied by a hunting permit and kiwi aversion certificate, are permitted within the Kaweka Forest Park so long as they are under control at all times. All other pets need to remain at home.

Hawke’s Bay Today is running a series of articles called ‘Can I go to...’ to help people decide whether they should go to popular summer spots after the cyclone. If you have a place you would like to be featured, email us at news@hbtoday.co.nz.