Last Updated: 11th Mar 2025
Ōtātara Pā Historic Reserve
Submitted by Kate Southern
Last Updated: 11th Mar 2025
Open
Grunt Factor: 5 ?
Gnarl Factor: 20 ?
3.5km
195m
195m
127m
Last Updated: 11th Mar 2025
Submitted by Kate Southern
Last Updated: 11th Mar 2025
Open
Grunt Factor: 5 ?
Gnarl Factor: 20 ?
3.5km
195m
195m
127m
Urban
Loop
Undulating, some big hills
Open tussock/grasslands
Easy Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +10.9%
Average Downhill Gradient: -11.6%
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0:40
Slow
0:30
Moderate
0:20
Fast
Enter the walkway from Churchill Dr, heading uphill. The trail starts off as dirt track but after climbing a stile to enter the reserve, you will be running on a wide mown path amongst the grass. Follow the the trail around to the right, and around the 'back side' of the hill. Follow the path which will take you down to the waharoa (pā gateway and carpark). Be sure to check out the modern reconstruction of the pallisades and info signs along the way.
Once you reach the carpark, head straight across (away from the road) and look for the sign that says "Maggies Way". It is quite overgrown but still in use. Climb the stile and follow the track back up the hill. The trail is much narrower and with long grass, take care with foot placement to avoid any ankle rolls. Head up the hill, climb the stile at the junction with the mown grass path you were running on previously, turn right, and return back towards Churchill drive using the same mown grass path.
Very easy to navigate around here. You won't get lost. Enjoy the view and don't forget your sunscreen!
Ōtātara Pā Historic Reserve is one of the largest and most ancient Māori pā sites in Hawke’s Bay. It comprises 58 ha, and incorporates two pā sites: Ōtātara Pā (on the lower portion of the hill) and Hikurangi Pā, 500 m higher up the ridge. It is administered by the Department of Conservation in partnership with the local hapū, Ngāti Pārau (one of the hapū within the Ahuriri Hapū) as kaitiaki (guardians) of the reserve. You will see restoration work including palisades and pouwhenua, and archaeological features such as tūāpapa, whare and rua kūmara. Enjoy the expansive views and reflect on why the site was chosen for its strategic position. Take time to read the story of Ōtātara Pā, depicted by the Turauwha Pou – part of the Te Ara o Nga Tipuna (Pathways of our Ancestors) project. Sites of battles, deaths or burials are considered wāhi tapu (sacred) by Māori. Feel free to wander and look but please treat the pā areas with respect. All archaeological and physical features of the pā are protected by law. Respect our cultural heritage: do not consume food on the pā, and keep to the track. Above all, remember “Toitū te whenua” – leave the land undisturbed.
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Park on Churchill Road
7 km
8 minutes
No
No
Easy.
Generally good.
Windproof jacket, First aid kit, Cellphone
None
Exposed to wind and sun.
Fences may be electrified for stock.
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Nice bit of hill work and well worth visiting. Bring the family and do a couple of loops whilst they walk at their own pace.
January 5, 2022
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