Get into the ngahere with a New Zealand-first digital bush walk experience
“Get into the Ngahere” turns a visitor's own phone into a personal tour guide along the popular Tui-Domain track on Mount Te Aroha.
This is New Zealand’s first digital guided walking experience on public conservation land. It brings together iwi-led storytelling, conservation science and location-based technology on a single track, ensuring local stories and cultural perspectives are accurately represented and shared with visitors.
Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust CEO, Louise Saunders, says the app helps deliver a richer and more complete understanding of Te Aroha's history.
“This experience has been carefully developed in partnership with Ngāti Tumutumu, and other experts, to share the full story of the town and maunga. Visitors will learn about the town through stories you can’t find anywhere else,” she says.
To access the app, simply scan a QR code at the start of the track, or open this link mpdc.nz/ngahere . Make sure to switch on location services. Those who'd rather save the walk for another day can download the free PickPath app, a New Zealand-owned platform, and search "Get into the Ngahere."
The experience was developed by Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust for Ngāti Tumutumu with funding from Matamata-Piako District Council and support from Department of Conservation staff.
Mayor Ash Tanner, says this experience aligns with Matamata-Piako District Council’s Parks and Open Space strategy.
"We have some of the best kept tracks and trails in the region, and now you can experience the Tui-Domain track in a completely unique way. Take a peek through the app, and you can learn more about our history, culture, and native protection work. It's a great activity for the young ones, and you might even see me up there!"
The Tui-Domain Track requires a reasonable level of fitness and is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs, with some hills and uneven ground along the way.
Why it's worth the trip
Completely free to use
An easy 50 minutes' drive from Hamilton or Tauranga, and under two hours from Auckland
Self-guided, explore at your own pace
Dogs welcome on lead (not permitted on the connected DOC tracks)
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