Ohakune: Railway Heritage and Trails

Ohakune is the southern gateway to Tongariro National Park and offers a range of discoveries in both summer and winter. Railway history, trails and nearby activities give the town its own distinctive character. Whether you and your family prefer a short walk, a day on a longer route or a cultural visit, different interests come together in Ohakune without needing to form a single, set itinerary.

Railway History in Ohakune and Junction

In Ohakune Junction, Ohakune Railway Station and the signal box form the centre of the railway heritage precinct. The Ohakune Railway Museum is operated by the Main Trunk Rail Ohakune (MTRO) group and run by volunteers. Its exhibitions show everyday railway operations in New Zealand from 1900 through to the 1950s. The museum is housed in a converted railway shed from the 1930s, which was relocated to Ohakune in 1990. Other exhibitions explore the history of the railway and settlement in the region.

The history of the North Island Main Trunk Railway also connects different places: Ohakune, the small settlement of Rangataua and the army base at Waiouru are linked by this railway line, which was completed in 1907. If you are interested in the Railway Museum and the railway’s heritage, you can explore both exhibitions and the town’s tangible connection to its history. The signal box and station in Junction add a distinctive point of interest.

From Ohakune Railway Station, the route follows the footpath to the Mangawhero River Bridge and then continues for about 1.5 kilometres to Marshalls Road or the car park there. This distance refers to the section after the bridge. You can factor this part of the route into your day’s plans if you would like to explore the area on foot.

Trails for Different Outing Ideas

The Ohakune Old Coach Road is a 15-kilometre, Grade 3 route, classified as moderately difficult. It is part of the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono cycling and walking trails. Its length and moderate difficulty provide practical points of reference if you would like to include a longer outing in your trip. The first stage of Te Ara Mangawhero also includes a 12.95-kilometre loop that connects to the Old Coach Road.

Another option is the Ohakune Circuit, which links the Mangawhero River Walk and the Jubilee Walkway. These three trails run from the mountain to the town. If you would prefer an easier walk, the Rimu Walk in Tongariro National Park is close to the Ohakune community. This easy walking trail is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. This gives you the option of choosing a trail that suits the needs of your fellow travellers, without confusing it with the longer Old Coach Road.

Carrotland and Trips in the Surrounding Area

Carrot Park is a special place that reflects Ohakune’s history and values. Ohakune Carrotland Adventure Park features a giant carrot figure, 7.5 metres tall, which has stood in the same location since 1984. The park also has a flying fox and pump tracks designed for riders of all skill levels. Here, a notable piece of local history and active recreation come together at a named visitor destination.

A short drive from Ohakune, Turoa Ski Area offers tobogganing and scenic chairlift rides. Along with the trails and Carrotland, this gives you a choice of different activities rather than a trip focused on just one thing. When choosing a holiday apartment in Ohakune, you can first consider which of these experiences matter most for your stay: railway history in town, a particular type of trail or a trip to the nearby area.

More Places

Find more places in Raurimu, Raetihi, Matiere, Erua, Kakahi, Whakapapa Village, Taumarunui and Owhango.

For the wider travel overview: Ruapehu District.