A walking track through river and forest country, reached off State Highway 4 at the walking tracks sign in Ōwhango, about 35 km from Whakapapa Village. The Ohinetonga Track runs past the Ohinetonga Lagoon and through beautiful forest, with picnic areas and good places to swim by the Whakapapa River. The Department of Conservation describes it as a good option with children. Dogs must be kept on a leash. The track crosses a bridge over the Whakapapa River, and the start of the 42 Traverse is just beyond it. Visitors say they have spotted whio, the native blue duck, on the river. The website marks a short section with a rockfall risk, signposted, and warns that the risk is highest during and after heavy rain. There are also steep drops to the river in places.
Reviewers describe the walk as tranquil, with lovely bush walks and river views, and say it feels completely immersed in nature. One calls it a good walk but not the best. It is a short drive from the highway, which suits a picnic or a half-day outing. Our pick in Ōwhango for a river walk with a chance of spotting whio.