Maungataniwha Range facts for kids

The Maungataniwha Range is a group of mountains in the Northland Region of New Zealand. These mountains were formed by volcanoes a very long time ago. Many local people and Northlanders call it "The Mangamukas." This name comes from the nearby settlement and the river on the southern side. The range acts like a natural barrier, separating the town of Kaitaia and the Aupouri Peninsula from the rest of Northland.

What Does Maungataniwha Mean?

The name Maungataniwha has a special meaning. The New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage explains that "Maunga" means mountain and "taniwha" refers to a mythical creature in Māori stories. So, the name means "taniwha mountain." Taniwha are powerful beings that can be guardians of places or sometimes dangerous.

Nature and Wildlife in the Range

The Maungataniwha Range is a natural treasure. It is home to many large kauri trees. Kauri trees are some of the biggest and oldest trees in New Zealand. Part of this mountain range is also protected as part of the Northland Forest Park. This park helps to look after the special plants and animals that live there.

Highest Point: Raetea

The tallest peak in the Maungataniwha Range is called Raetea. It stands very high at 744 meters (about 2,441 feet) above sea level. This makes it a significant landmark in the Northland region.

State Highway 1: A Winding Road

State Highway 1 is a very important road in New Zealand. It crosses right through the Maungataniwha Range. The road goes through a narrow part called the Mangamuka Gorge. At its highest point, the road reaches 383 meters (about 1,257 feet).

This section of State Highway 1 is famous for being very winding, twisty, and hilly. It was first built in the 1920s. Later, in 1961, the road was sealed with a smooth surface. This made it the best way to travel between Whangarei and Kaitaia.

The Railway That Wasn't Built

In the early 1900s, there was a big discussion about building a railway line. The idea was to connect Kaitaia and the Far North with the main national rail network. This would have linked them to the North Auckland Line or the Okaihau Branch line.

People debated whether the railway should go through the mountains or around them. However, after many talks, the plan never went ahead. In 1936, the decision was made not to extend the railway to Kaitaia. The part of the line that went from Okaihau to Rangiahua was even closed down.