Last updated July 2026
Located just a short drive from New Plymouth, Lake Mangamahoe is a man-made reservoir offering scenic walks, mountain biking and panoramic views of Taranaki Maunga. The lake serves as a key water supply for the district while providing public recreation in the surrounding plantation forest. Visitors enjoy a well-signposted 6 km circuit walk with lookouts and pockets of native bush, plus extensive mountain bike trails. Swimming and boating are prohibited to protect water quality.
Practical Information
| Location | 10-minute drive south of New Plymouth on SH3 |
| Access | Junction Road, Plantation Road, Lake Mangamahoe Road |
| Walking | 6 km circuit, medium/hard grade |
| Mountain biking | Over 30 km of trails, all skill levels |
| Swimming | Prohibited (water supply catchment) |
| Facilities | Free parking, toilets, picnic areas, bike wash stations |
| Horse riding | 5 km dedicated bridle trail |
| Management | New Plymouth District Council |
About Lake Mangamahoe
Lake Mangamahoe was formed in 1931 when a concrete-cored earth dam was completed across the Mangamahoe Stream valley. The project submerged approximately 79 acres (32 hectares) to create a reliable reservoir for New Plymouth’s water supply and to support the Mangorei Power Station. Water is drawn from both the Mangamahoe Stream and the Waiwhakaiho River.
The lake remains an active water catchment managed by the New Plymouth District Council. Surrounding plantation forestry helps reduce erosion and maintain water quality. Recent upgrades to the water intake system, including work in 2026, continue to ensure reliable supply to around 26,000 properties.
Public access for recreation has been available since the 1990s. The area balances conservation with day-use activities such as walking, mountain biking and horse riding. Gates may close at certain times, and visitors should check current conditions on the council website.
Lake Mangamahoe Loop Walk
The Lake Mangamahoe Circuit Walk is a 6 km loop suitable for most ages, though some steep undulating sections require moderate fitness. The track passes through production forest, mature ornamental plantings and pockets of regenerating native bush. Two main route options exist: an upper ridge track with elevated lookouts and a lower lakeside path closer to the water.
Key viewpoints include the dam wall and several benches offering reflections of Taranaki Maunga on calm days. The walk typically takes 1.5–2 hours. After rain the surface can be slippery and muddy. Access is from Lake Mangamahoe Road.
Mountain Biking at Lake Mangamahoe
The Mangamahoe Mountain Bike Park contains over 30 km of singletrack ranging from beginner green trails to double-black advanced lines. Popular routes include family-friendly options such as Kiwi Kids and Sinclair’s, plus more challenging tracks like Track the Ripper and Highway to Hell. A sealed pump track is also available.
Trails are maintained by the New Plymouth Mountain Bike Club. Access is via Plantation Road, with bike wash stations provided. Helmets are mandatory and riders should yield to walkers on shared sections.
Swimming at Lake Mangamahoe
Swimming and boating are prohibited in Lake Mangamahoe. The lake is a protected drinking-water catchment, and restrictions exist for public health and safety reasons. Lake levels can also fluctuate without warning. Visitors seeking swimming opportunities should consider other locations in the New Plymouth district.
Scenic Views and Lookouts
Calm days often produce mirror-like reflections of Taranaki Maunga across the lake surface. Lookouts along the circuit walk and near the dam wall provide excellent photography spots. Picnic areas offer sheltered vantage points for relaxed viewing.
Facilities and Access
Free car parks are located at the main entrance opposite Kent Road and at the end of Plantation Road. A dedicated horse-trailer park accommodates up to 20 vehicles. Toilets and picnic areas with shelterbelts are available at the main entrance. Gates may close outside daylight hours.
Regulations and Conservation
The area is a designated wildlife refuge and water catchment. Mountain biking and horse riding are restricted to designated trails. Fishing from boats is not permitted; fly fishing from the shore requires a licence. Visitors must follow New Plymouth District Council bylaws to protect water quality and biodiversity.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers praise the well-marked 6 km circuit for its variety of forest and lakeside scenery plus frequent glimpses of Taranaki Maunga. Many note the moderate fitness required on steeper sections and recommend allowing extra time after rain.
Mountain bikers describe the park as one of Taranaki’s best, with trails suitable for all abilities and good facilities including bike washes. Reviewers appreciate the compact layout that packs many kilometres into a small area.
Where to Learn More
New Plymouth District Council: Official page with current access, trail details and regulations.
NPDC Water Projects: Updates on infrastructure work at the lake.
New Plymouth Mountain Bike Club: Trail maps and maintenance information for the bike park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is swimming allowed in Lake Mangamahoe?
No. Swimming and boating are prohibited because the lake is a drinking-water catchment.
How long is the Lake Mangamahoe circuit walk?
The well-signposted loop is 6 km and rated medium to hard, with some steep sections.
How many mountain bike trails are there?
The park offers over 30 km of trails from beginner to advanced grades.
Can I take my horse to Lake Mangamahoe?
Yes. A 5 km dedicated bridle trail exists on the north side of the lake with a dedicated parking area.
Is fishing permitted?
Fly fishing from the shore is allowed with a licence; fishing from boats is not permitted.
Are there toilets and parking?
Free car parks, toilets and picnic areas are available at the main entrance.
Can I camp at Lake Mangamahoe?
No overnight camping is permitted; the area is for day use only.
Are guided tours available?
No regular guided tours operate; visitors explore the marked trails independently.
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