Tucked away, Piggots Campground calls to adventurers seeking solace in the Hunua Ranges. This campsite offers basic facilities for those exploring the Hunua Ranges tramping tracks. Imagine pitching your tent after a long day of hiking.
Piggots Campground has a capacity for 20 people. It sits nestled between the Mangatawhiri and Mangatangi Reservoirs. Water is available from a nearby stream. Be sure to treat it before drinking. This precaution ensures your safety.
Auckland Council administers this area. Piggots Campground provides a perfect base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders. The Hunua Ranges offer many walking tracks. The tracks vary in difficulty and length.
Ernies Track is a popular option. It ends near Piggots Campground. This track follows the western edge of the Mangatawhiri Dam. It offers great views. Hikers can cross the Mangatawhiri River. Be aware that Ernies Track is suitable only for experienced hikers. They should be well equipped.
Another option is the Rata Ridge Track. It meets Ernies Track at Piggots Campsite. The Rata Ridge Track descends through the native forest. It leads to the head of the Mangatangi Dam. This track is a perfect add-on to Ernies Track. Especially if you are camping at Piggots Campsite.
The Hunua Ranges boast the KMA-Piggots biodiversity focus area. It covers 3430 hectares. Mount Kohukohunui lies within this area. It is the highest point in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. It rises to 688 meters.
The forest is a mosaic of tawa forest. Kohekohe trees are abundant. The vegetation near Mount Kohukohunui includes rimu-tōwai forest. It is unique in Tāmaki Makaurau. Submontane species thrive here. Mountain cabbage trees, mountain horopito and hutu are also present.
Animal pest control programs started in 1994. They protect the last pair of kōkako. Now over 100 kōkako breeding pairs thrive. Other native species benefit too. These include kākā, pepeketua and toutouwai. Also miromiro, pekapeka-tou-roa and korimako. Volunteers play a crucial role in this project.
Piggots Campground offers more than just a place to sleep. It provides access to an amazing landscape. The Hunua Falls are a short drive away. They cascade 30 meters. They form the Wairoa River.
Several walking tracks offer different views of the falls. The Hunua Falls Loop Track takes you through lush forest. It leads to a lookout point. The Cossey Massey Loop Track combines Cosseys Gorge Track. It combines Massey Track for an enjoyable walk.
Consider the Wairoa Loop Track. It offers superb views of the Wairoa Reservoir. The Suspension Bridge Track is another option. The Hunua Ranges have mountain biking trails too. The Mangatawhiri Challenge Track is for advanced riders. The Moumoukai Farm Track is a medium-grade trail. The Valley Loop Track is an easy grade.
So, come and experience the Hunua Ranges. Piggots Campground is your gateway to adventure. Enjoy the natural beauty. Respect the environment. Create lasting memories in this remarkable place.