Description
Discover the Maungatapu Saddle – Your Next Adventure Awaits
Step into the wild beauty of Mount Richmond Forest Park, where the iconic Maungatapu Saddle opens the door to unforgettable hiking and running adventures. From rugged bush tracks to historic pathways, every step offers breathtaking scenery and a taste of New Zealand’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
For the storytellers, there’s even a darker side to uncover—tales of infamous 19th-century outlaws are woven into these hills. Curious? Dive into the history here.
Trail Options
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Start from Maungatapu Saddle and explore one of the many scenic walks before returning to your car at the Matai Caves Carpark.
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Arrange a custom group pickup for longer routes.
Some popular trails include:
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Saddle Hill Track (return via zigzag track)
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Dew Lakes and the historic Māori Argillite Quarry via the Rush Pools Track
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Maungatapu Saddle through to Mount Duppa (custom group pickup)
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Maungatapu Saddle through to Third House (custom group pickup)
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Maungatapu Saddle through to Fringed Hill (custom group pickup)
Shuttle Timetable
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8.30am – Depart Matai Caves Carpark → Maungatapu Saddle
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9.30am – Depart Maungatapu Saddle → Matai Caves Carpark
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10.30am – Depart Matai Caves Carpark → Maungatapu Saddle
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11.30am – Depart Maungatapu Saddle → Matai Caves Carpark
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12.30pm – Depart Matai Caves Carpark → Maungatapu Saddle
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1.30pm – Depart Maungatapu Saddle → Matai Caves Carpark
Custom Transport
Got a group? Want to head further afield? Contact us for afternoon custom transport prices and relocations back to your vehicle.









