The Matemateaonga Track can be walked in four days, three nights but can also be completed in three days, two nights by an averagely fit person. This describes the three-day version. You must arrange your jet boat pick up before you start your tramp. Full transport to and from track and package deals of transport, jet boat, hut passes, car storage can be arranged at nugget2000@xtra.co.nz visits to both the Bridge to Somewhere and Bride to Nowhere can also be arranged as part of your trip.
Day One - be transported to the Kohi Saddle (Eastern Taranaki via Stratford). Kohi Saddle (275m) to Pouri Hut (685m) is 19km - 5-6 hours. The first section of track begins in regenerating bush but soon reaches thick native bush. At the 6km point you pass the Omaru Hut, a good morning tea stop. At about the 12km point there is a side trip (1.5hrs) to Mt Humphries summit. On a good day there is clear views of all North Island mountains, including Egmont, Ruapehu etc of course you will also see all three National Parks i.e. Egmont, Whanganui and Tongariro.
Day Two - Pouri Hut to Puketotara Hut (427m) 21kms allow 7 hours. Through this is the longest stretch the track continues to be an easy walk on a well-graded track. You will pass the Ngapurua Shelter, the only reliable source of water on this section of the track. Just beyond the hut there is a sweeping view over the Whanganui River below and Tongariro peaks to the east.
Day three - Hut to River (15m) The track now abruptly drops off the Matemateaonga range to the river. A sign marks the rendezvous point with the jet boat, which will take you to Pipiriki. A side trip to see the Bridge to Nowhere is also an added option.
The forest consists predominantly of tawa, honeysuckle and kamahi; stands of rimu and miro emerge through the dense canopy. Beyond 480m-altitude rimu disappear and kamahi and rata dominate.
There is an endless list of sub-canopy species. The birdlife consists of shining cuckoo, fantail, north island robin, tomtit, wood pigeon and kiwi.