Lake Maraetai defines Mangakino: the town lies on its shore, and the lake forms the centre of Mangakino Village. Visitors can swim in the lake; Mangakino is also considered a wakeboarding destination on Lake Maraetai. Swimming and wakeboarding offer two specific ways to include the lake in your travel plans.
The lakeshore and getting your bearings in town
Mangakino Recreation Reserve, also known as Mangakino Lakefront Reserve, is east of the town and close to the destination. It has a boat ramp, a jetty, play equipment, barbecue and picnic tables, and public toilets. The starting point of the Maraetai section is next to the car park at Mangakino Lakefront Reserve. This location helps you get your bearings when planning to visit both the lakeshore and the trailhead. In the Taupo District, Mangakino Recreation Reserve offers free camping.
Trails: compare distances and grades
Two trail routes can be compared by their length and grade. The Waipapa Trail starts in Mangakino Village and leads to Waipapa Power Station. It is 19.6 kilometres long and graded Advanced. The Maraetai Trail runs from Whakamaru Dam to Mangakino; it is 12.3 kilometres long and graded Intermediate. This makes the Waipapa Trail the longer and more challenging option, while the Maraetai Trail offers a shorter distance.
The Mangakino Suspension Bridge is on the Maraetai Trail towards Mangakino. It is 70 metres long and hangs 12 metres above the river. Whakamaru Dam is also a five-minute drive from Mangakino; visitors can stand on top of the dam and look down. As trail conditions can change, check the latest track conditions when planning a specific trip.
Another activity in town
Mangakino also has a free, upgraded disc golf course with 18 baskets and two ways to play. This adds another specific activity to your plans alongside the lake and trails.
Local history and events
Mangakino was established in 1946 as a temporary settlement as part of the Waikato hydroelectric power scheme, which involved building dams on the Waikato River. The town’s origins connect its history to hydroelectric development along the river and add a historical perspective to today’s view of Mangakino on Lake Maraetai.
Events also reflect the area’s water and trail themes: Mangakino hosts the annual North Island Wakeboarding Championships. The Waikato River Trails Summer Sizzler running and walking event finishes on the shore of Lake Maraetai in Mangakino Village. If you’d like to plan your trip around an event, check the dates in advance.
Discover more destinations: Tokaanu, Oruanui, Mokai, Kuratau, Waihaha, Turangi, Iwitahi, Wairakei.
Back to the broader travel overview: Taupo District.
