Papamoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park
Nestled between Papamoa and Te Puke in the Bay of Plenty, the Papamoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park stands as a testament to our rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. This 182-hectare park, known in te reo Māori as Te Rae o Papamoa, offers visitors a unique blend of archaeological wonders, panoramic views, and diverse walking tracks.
A Glimpse into the Past
The park’s historical significance cannot be overstated. With over 2000 archaeological and cultural sites dating back to 1650 AD, it’s a veritable outdoor museum of Māori history. The area holds deep cultural importance for several iwi, including Ngaiterangi, Ngati Pukenga, and Waitaha A Hei. At least seven pā sites are scattered throughout the park, each telling its own story of strategic importance and early Māori life.
These hills were once a crucial vantage point, allowing control over the south-eastern access to Tauranga Moana and the coastal strip down to Maketu. Today, visitors can explore these ancient sites, walking in the footsteps of those who shaped our early history.
Natural Splendour
Rising to a summit of 224 metres above sea level, Papamoa Hills offers breathtaking 360-degree views that rival those of the popular Mauao (Mount Maunganui). From the top, you can gaze out over the Pacific Ocean, Papamoa Beach, and along the coastline from Coromandel Peninsula to East Cape.
The park’s landscape is a diverse tapestry of native bush, open farmland, and regenerating forest. Since its establishment in 2003, over 50,000 native plants have been introduced, enhancing the park’s biodiversity and natural beauty.
Walking Tracks for All
The park caters to a range of fitness levels and interests with its variety of walking tracks. The main track, a 45-minute steep climb from the carpark to the trig station, rewards hikers with those spectacular coastal views. For those seeking a gentler experience, several other tracks wind through the park, showcasing different pā sites and vistas.
Recent upgrades have made the park more accessible than ever. A new carpark and visitor gateway, opened in November 2023, provide improved facilities and access to lesser-used tracks. A short, flat 200-metre loop track around the new visitor area caters to those with limited mobility, while a new 1,500-metre pathway connects the new parking area to existing walkways.
Cultural Experience
The recent upgrades have significantly enhanced the visitor experience, particularly in terms of cultural education. New interpretation panels and a 3D map of the park help visitors understand the landscape’s rich history and significance. A visually stunning tomokanga (entryway) welcomes visitors, setting the tone for a journey through time and culture.
Practical Information
The park is open daily from 6:30 am until 7 pm in winter and 9 pm in summer. While most tracks are well-formed, good walking shoes and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended. Remember to bring water, as there’s no drinking water supply in the park.
It’s important to note that the park is also an operational farm. Visitors should respect this working landscape by leaving gates as they find them.
Conservation and Future
The Papamoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a living, breathing example of conservation in action. The Bay of Plenty Regional Council works in partnership with mana whenua to support the vision for the park, ensuring its cultural and ecological values are preserved for future generations.
As visitor numbers continue to grow – they quadrupled between 2006 and 2016 – the importance of responsible tourism becomes ever more crucial. By respecting the park’s rules, such as no dogs, camping, motorbikes, mountain biking, or fires, visitors play a part in preserving this taonga for years to come.
Papamoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with our past while enjoying the natural beauty of the Bay of Plenty. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful walk with stunning views, this park has something for everyone. It stands as a proud example of how we can honour our cultural heritage while providing a space for recreation and education in the heart of our stunning landscape.