Last updated November 2026
The Thomas Bush Track is a 5.4 km loop that leaves the Opouahi Walkway in Opouahi Scenic Reserve and climbs across farmland into Thomas Bush, about 41 km from Napier. DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track and allows 4 hours, including the Opouahi Walkway sections at each end.
The catch is that DOC says the track “is not actively managed”, so markers and the track itself may be hard to follow. It suits fit walkers who are confident finding their own way, rather than families after a lakeside stroll. Check DOC before you go, use Plan My Walk and tell someone your plans.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Thomas Bush Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Junction halfway round the Opouahi Walkway, Opouahi Scenic Reserve, Pohokura Road
- Distance from the city
- About 41 km from Napier
- Walking time
- 4 hr, including the Opouahi Walkway sections
- Track length
- 5.4 km loop
- Grade
- Advanced (DOC: advanced tramping track)
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Track type
- Tramping track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Thomas Bush Track
The walk starts on the Opouahi Walkway, the easy lake loop in Opouahi Scenic Reserve. At the far end of the lake, about halfway round, the Thomas Bush Track turns off at a junction and heads uphill.
The first climb crosses open farmland before the track enters Thomas Bush. It keeps climbing to the top, then loops around and drops back down, rejoining the inward track just before you leave the bush.
From there you retrace your steps down through the farmland to the junction and finish the lap of the lake on the Opouahi Walkway. DOC’s 4-hour estimate covers the whole outing, lake sections included.
What sets this walk apart from its neighbours is its condition. DOC says the track is not actively managed, and warns that marking and track visibility may not enable easy navigation. Expect to pick your way in places and to turn back if you lose the line.
If you want the lake without the navigation, the Opouahi Walkway on its own is the shorter option. Thomas Bush is the add-on for experienced trampers who want a longer climb into the bush.
Navigation and Track Conditions
Because the track is not actively managed, carry a map and the skills to use it, and allow extra time. Decide on a turnaround time before you leave the lake.
This is limestone country with unmarked caves, shafts and sinkholes off the track, and some may be unstable. Stay back from any you find and report them to DOC. Wasps and ongaonga (native stinging nettle) are found in the area: carry allergy medication and don’t touch the ongaonga.
The weather can be very hot in summer and can bring snow in winter, with wind, rain and cold at any time of year.
DOC’s outdoor advice applies in full: choose a trip that matches your skills, check the forecast, pack warm clothes and extra food, leave your intentions with a trusted contact and take a distress beacon. Plan My Walk is a good place to set this up.
Getting There
Start from the Opouahi Walkway in Opouahi Scenic Reserve, which is on Pohokura Road between Tūtira and Boundary Stream. The final section of the drive is on an unsealed road that is narrow, winding and steep in places, so stay left, keep your headlights on and drive to the conditions.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Thomas Bush Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Boundary Stream area: Opouahi Scenic Reserve and the other tracks around Boundary Stream.
Plan My Walk: plan your trip, check the forecast and share your intentions before you set out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Thomas Bush Track take?
DOC allows 4 hours, including the Opouahi Walkway sections at the start and finish.
Where does it start?
At a junction halfway round the Opouahi Walkway, at the far end of the lake in Opouahi Scenic Reserve.
Is the track well marked?
No. DOC says it is not actively managed and that marking and track visibility may not enable easy navigation.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track. It climbs across farmland and up through Thomas Bush, then back down.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Dogs are not allowed.
Is it suitable for children?
The Opouahi Walkway is the better choice for families. Thomas Bush suits experienced walkers who can navigate.
What should I take?
Warm and waterproof layers, sun protection, extra food, a map, allergy medication for wasp stings and a distress beacon. Tell someone your plans.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.