Starting from the hamlet of Aranga Beach at the north end of Ripiro Beach, the Maunganui Bluff Track ascends the impressive 459-metre-high volcanic remnant of Maunganui Bluff. The narrow track climbs 100 metres around the front of the bluff, though a mix of coastal scrub and mature, mostly pohutukawa trees. The views of Ripiro Beach and the Taman Sea smashing into the bluff's base are superb.
The track then enters a coastal forest, with the floor strewn with rocks and boulders, and follows a steep gully up another 100 metres. After that, the climb is more gradual through the forest to the fenceline, which separates the reserve from farm paddocks. Follow the fence line for another 250 metres to the summit. From there, the view is superb on a fine day and a great spot for a picnic!
You can also walk north from the summit to Waitapu Saddle, then down to the beach at Waikarā Beach. There is a basic campsite by the beach.
The track access is well-signposted on Aranga Coast Road. Park on the roadside, and then it is 2.6 km to Maunganui Bluff summit and 5.3 km to Waikarā Beach, one way. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach the summit and 5 hours to reach Waikara Beach. You return the same way.
