Te Puru offers several distinct nature and outdoor experiences: the steep Te Puru Track, the giant pōhutukawa “The Mother Tree” in Te Puru Domain, as well as pools, boating and coastal habitats.
Hiking the Te Puru Track
The Te Puru Track begins at Te Puru Creek Road in Te Puru and climbs steeply from there to the upper ridge. The route includes several stream crossings and can also get quite muddy. Keep these features in mind when assessing the hike: it’s not just about the distance, but also the steep climb and crossings.
The Te Puru Track connects with the Tapu Summit to Crosbies Hut Track and continues to Crosbies Hut. The route from the Te Puru Track to the hut is listed as 8.9 kilometres and a five-hour walk. These figures refer to the destination of Crosbies Hut, not just the climb to the upper ridge. Do not walk the track after heavy rain. Check the Department of Conservation’s current conditions before setting out.
“The Mother Tree” in Te Puru Domain
A giant pōhutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) stands in Te Puru Domain and is known as “The Mother Tree”. Its average canopy width is 58.50 metres. The tree offers a tangible connection with nature alongside the area’s hiking and water activities.
Pools and waterways
At the end of Te Puru Creek Road is a large pool with a family area. A path from this pool area leads to further smaller pools where you can cool off. If you’re planning to swim, check conditions beforehand; track and water conditions can vary.
Boating and the coast
The Te Puru Boat Ramp is designed for boats and trailers with a maximum length of 7 metres. Mussel farms can be reached by boat from the ramp in 15 minutes. These two details answer different planning questions: the length limit applies to boats and trailers, while the time estimate refers to the trip to the mussel farms.
The waters off Te Puru are habitats for snapper, kahawai and kingfish. The Puru Boat Club Inc. holds fishing competitions every year in late December and on Easter Sunday. If you’d like to plan a stay around a competition, check the specific dates in advance.
In the wider Thames-Coromandel District destination
In the wider Thames-Coromandel District destination, the 160-kilometre Hauraki Rail Trail passes through the Thames-Coromandel, Hauraki and Matamata-Piako districts. The 34-kilometre section from Thames to Paeroa runs through lush farmland. The two distances refer to different scales: 160 kilometres for the trail as a whole, and 34 kilometres for this section. Check current trail information when planning a specific ride.
Also in the Thames-Coromandel District, the Thames School of Mines complex is located in Thames. It is considered a rare and well-preserved example of its kind nationwide. The site has spiritual, cultural and archaeological significance and is especially important to Ngati Maru.
Discover more destinations: Thames, Hikuai, Pauanui, Whitianga, Hahei, Cooks Beach, Coromandel, Hikutaia
For the wider travel overview: Thames-Coromandel District.
