TRIP IDEAS
Day Trips
Mokoroa Falls
Hike time: 3hr return
Walk type: Walking track
Region: in between Muriwai and Waitākere
Grade/Difficulty: Easy
Drive time (from UoA):
Description: The Mokoroa Falls Track starts at Horsman Road. You pass the junction with the Goldie Bush Walkway (now closed) on your left after about 5 minutes. The track follows a gentle path along a ridge to a viewing platform where you can view the Mokoroa Falls. From the viewing platform, steep steps lead down to the Mokoroa Stream where you can view the falls from the bottom.
Te Henga Walkway - to summit
Hike time: 2.5hr return
Walk type: Day-walk
Grade: Easy
Region: Auckland
Drive time (from UoA): 40 mins
Description: Walk via the beach, or via the track from the car park by the bridge. Once at O’Neill beach, you can get on or off the track and walk 150m up the hill to the summit and a great view out to Whatipu.
Tunnel Point Campground
Hike time: 1hr one way
Walk type: Day-trip or Overnight
Region: Auckland
Grade/Difficulty: Easy
Drive time (from UoA): 45 mins
Description: Walk along the dramatic Karekare beach coast to an old loggers tunnel. There is a nice and secluded camping spot.
Mercer Bay loop walk
Hike time: 40 min loop
Walk type: Short Day walk
Region: Auckland
Grade/Difficulty: Easy
Drive time (from UoA): 45 mins
Description: Walk the track down to some very photogenic cliffs!
Mt. Te Aroha Summit track
Hike time: 6-7hr return
Walk type: Tramping track (bit steep in places)
Region: Waikato
Grade/Difficulty: Easy-medium
Drive time (from UoA): 1hr 43min
Description: Beginning at the Mokena Geyser in Te Aroha Domain, the well-defined track rises to the summit, which offers majestic 360 degree views across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty. On a good day, you can see as far as Mt Taranaki and Mt Ruapehu.
Rangitoto Summit Track
Hike time: 3hr-3.5 return if going to lava caves
Walk type: Walking track
Region: Auckland
Grade/Difficulty: Easy
Drive time (from UoA):
Description: An easy climb through pōhutukawa forest and lava fields gives way to panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf from the summit of this volcanic island. It also has the world’s largest pohutukawa forest! At the summit another track circles the rim of the crater. If you want to explore the tunnels and caves, bring a torch. Return to the Summit Track or Summit Road via the sign posted track.
Shakespeare regional park
Hike time: 1-3hr depending on chosen route
Walk type: Day walk
Region: Auckland
Grade/Difficulty: Easy
Drive time (from UoA): 50min
Description: Shakespear Regional Park is a bird sanctuary with magnificent views of the Hauraki Gulf. It is a working farm, so you’ll have the opportunity to walk around the sheep and cattle. The native birds you might see are the White-faced Herons, Stilts, Dotterels, Tui and our native Pigeons. Tracks can go through native bush, farmland or coastal.
Karangahake Gorge
Hike time: 1.5hr loop - 8 hr returning depending on route
Walk type: Easy
Region: Located on State Highway 2 between Paeroa and Waihi
Grade/Difficulty: Easy
Drive time (from UoA): 1.5hr
Description: The Karangahake Gorge historic walkway follows the old Paeroa to Waihi railway line with the remainder of the track following the banks of the Ohinemuri River. For those wishing to explore the entire trail, it can be done over three to five days, from Kaiaua through to Matamata.
Peach cove/Te Whara track
Hike time: 3hr return
Walk type: Walking track
Region: Whangarei
Grade/Difficulty: Easy - Intermediate
Drive time (from UoA):
Description: The 3-hour return walk along the Peach Cove Track requires skill and a reasonable level of fitness. The track has several steep climbs before it drops down to Peach Cove’s sandy beach. The track runs up one side of Bream Head Ridge and drops down the other side into Peach Cove, a pretty little sandy beach. You'll pass through attractive coastal broadleaf forest, and you can stay the night at the Peach Cove hut.
Te Whara track
Hike time: 5-6hr one way
Walk type: Great Walk/ Easier tramping track
Region: Whangarei
Grade/Difficulty: Intermediate
Drive time (from UoA): 2hr 45min
Description: The Te Whara track follows an ancient Māori trail from Ocean Beach to Urquharts Bay. The track passes through some of the best coastal forest in the North Island. At the Bream Head summit, towards the Ocean Beach end and not far from the ruins of a WWII radar station, enjoy a magnificent coastal panorama. Once you've climbed up onto the ridge, the track becomes undulating and relatively easy-going.
Wenderholm Regional Park
Hike time: Up to 2.5hrs
Walk type: Day walk
Region: Auckland/Orewa
Grade/Difficulty: Easy
Drive time (from UoA): 40 min
Description: Cradled by the Pūhoi and Waiwera Rivers, Wenderholm was the first Auckland regional park opened to visitors and remains one of the most beautiful. Its forested headland, rich in native birdlife is one of Auckland’s finest examples.There are ample sheltered grounds for picnics and games and the fine swimming beach draws the summer crowds.
Overnight Trips
Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (Pinnacles Walk)
This popular walk leads to Pinnacles Hut, and on to the summit of the Pinnacles with spectacular views of the Coromandel Peninsula. It can be completed as a day or overnight walk.
Description: Starting from the Kauaeranga road end, there are multiple routes to take up to Pinnacles Hut. Going via the Hydro camp via Webb Creek track takes you along the river side, with a gentle elevation gain as you walk along underneath the power lines, giving good views of the Pinnacles. Going via Billygoat walk starts with a punchy climb, with a great rest spot at Billygoat Basin Campsite. The track then continues on to the Hydro camp going through wonderful bush.
Once at Pinnacles Hut, the summit of the pinnacles is only a short walk away, which offers spectacular 360 degree views over the Coromandel ranges.
NOTE: Pinnacles hut must be booked online ahead of your trip
Timing:
Drive time from UoA clocktower - 2 hours
Pinnacles hut via Webb Creek Track - 3-4 hours
Pinnacles hut via Billygoat walk - 3.5-4.5 hours
Pinnacles from Pinnacles hut - 40 minutes each way
Crosbies Hut
This popular Hut, located in the Coromandel Ranges, offers a long day trip for those who want to test themselves, or an easier overnight to get into tramping overnight.
Track Details: There are multiple ways to get to Crosbies Hut. The main way up this from the Waiotahi Valley road end, following up the Waiomu valley track until you get to the Crosbies Main Ridge Tramping Track. This track is well formed and has a steady ascent.
Another way, starting at the Whangaiterenga Camp, the track rises steadily up the hill side, crossing the Whangaiterenga stream three times (Don’t attempt if heavy rain has occurred recently before your trip)
The most rugged option starts from the Karaka Road end in Thames, following along the Karaka stream, then joining up with the Waiotahi track after 1.5-2 hours.
Timing:
Drive time from UoA Clock tower: 1.5-2 hours
Crosbies Hut via Waiotahi Track - 4-5 hours
Crosbies Hut via Whangaiterenga - 4-5 hours
Crosbies Hut via Karaka Track - 5 hours
Tarawera Trail
Once devastated by the 1886 Tarawera eruption, the Tarawera Trail represents a return of the people to their land and the birthplace of tourism in New Zealand. Wonder your way through the bush and travel back in time with Mt Tawawera as a beautiful backdrop.
Track Details: The track begins at the Te Wairoa car park on Tarawera road, from there you walk alongside the banks of Lake Tarawera and cut through the bush until you get to Wairua Hut. Make sure to enjoy the naturally occurring hot water beach at Te Rata Bay.
Note:
-
Make sure to check out the Buried village and Wairere falls while you’re here to learn about the local history and the 1886 eruption.
-
There is a Water taxi you can book if you do not want to walk back along the Tarawera trail.
Timing:
Drive time from UoA Clock tower -3 hours
Wairua Hut via Tarawera trail - 4 hours 15km one way - 11km
Te Rata bay from Wairua hut - 30 minutes - 1 hour
Symes Hut
Perched on the top of Fanthams Peak high on the slopes of Mt Taranaki, Syme Hut is arguably Egmont National Park's best overnight spots. On fine days you can enjoy spectacular views of the Taranaki region followed by stunning sunsets.
Track Details: The quickest way up to Symes starts from the road end at Dawson Falls. This challenging tramp climbs through the forest to Hillary Seat. From here it continues uphill past Hooker Shelter (1140 m) and the turnoff to Kapuni Lodge before ascending a staircase to reach steep scoria slopes. Snow poles mark the route to Fanthams Peak/Panitahi (1,966 m) and Syme Hut.
Note:
-
This route is exposed and not recommended in ice and snow unless an experienced mountaineer - best do this in Summer!
-
Snow, high rainfall and storm damage can make tracks impassable – many rivers and streams are unbridged.
Timing:
Drive time from UoA Clock tower: 5hr
Dawson Fall carpark to syme Hut: 2.5~3 hr
Return: 5-6hr round trip
Pirongia - Pahautea Hut
Get ready for the classic gruelling mud-drenched, boot consuming, root crawling and uphill slog that is Pirongia! Are you really part of AUTC if you haven’t gone through Pirongia?
Track Details: A good level of fitness is required for these tracks. The high level tracks on Pirongia follow steep-sided ridges. Water is difficult to find, especially in summer, so be sure to take sufficient drinking water with you. Because of poorly drained soils, the tracks can be very muddy, especially after rain.
Timing:
Drive time from UoA Clock tower: 1hr 40min
Pahautea Hut via Mahaukura Track: 4-6hr one way.
From Grey Road car park, follow the track to Wharauroa Lookout then on for another 30 min to Mahaukura. The track undulates over small peaks and is uneven underfoot. From Mahaukura, the track descends steeply before climbing again towards Pirongia summit viewing tower.
Pahautea Hut via Tirohanga Track: 3-5hr one way.
The track starts from Corcoran Road, climbs to Ruapane then traverses an undulating ridge on uneven ground before passing Tirohanga Bluff, a pinnacle of hard lava signifying its volcanic origins. The track then descends and climbs before reaching the Pirongia summit. On a clear day look for Mt Taranaki and Mt Ruapehu in the distance.
Tirohanga to Mahaukura round trip: 8-11hr return.
This is a popular round trip for people overnighting at Pahautea Hut. Cross from Grey Road car park to Ruapane via the Mangakara Nature Walk and Link Track then follow the Tirohanga Track to the summit viewing tower. Return via Mahaukura Track to Grey Road. This is the easier circuit rather than doing it the other way round via Mahaukura then Tirohanga.
Kaimanawas - Waipakihi Hut
Break out from the bush line to the exposed alpine ridge of Umukarikari and Mount Urchin. Enjoy fantastic views and access the Waipakihi valley and hut.Waipakihi Hut is popular with both hunters and trampers out to explore the southern end of the Kaimanawa Forest Park. Reach the hut through the river valley itself, or via the Urchin and Umukarikari tracks. This hut offers great views down the river valley, and out over the sparse, alpine environment of the Kaimanawa range tops (DOC, https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/central-north-island/places/kaimanawa-forest-park/things-to-do/huts/waipakihi-hut/) .
Track Details: There are several ways to reach this hut.
Umukarikari Track: 6-8hr one way
The track climbs steadily through beech forest to the treeline. From there it follows a poled route along the Umukarikari Range (summit 1561 m) before dropping down to Waipakihi Hut. It's popular with hunters as well as trampers. There is a stream to cross just before you reach the hut, which can be done via stepping stones - but be aware they are quite slippery!
Urchin Track to Waipakihi Valley: 3-4hr one way
The track climbs steadily up through beech forest and above the bush line to the Urchin Trig (1391 m) (3 - 4 hours). The upper section has an interesting array of alpine plants and a wide vista of Lake Taupō and the volcanoes of the Tongariro National Park.From here, the track travels for about 2 km across open tops before dropping sharply down to the mid reaches of Waipakihi River Valley. There are many great places to camp in the valley or you can continue upstream to Waipākihi Hut near the top of the valley (an additional 5 - 6 hours walk).
Waipakihi Road end to Waikpakihi Hut: 8-12hr
This valley is accessible from the Waipakihi Road end and provides relatively easy walking. There is no defined track and you should be prepared for frequent river crossings. There are many good campsites along the river. Some areas are private land and need permission to access. Check the DOC website for details.
Timing:
Drive time from UoA Clock tower: 4hr 20min
Kaimais- Waitawheta Hut
This is a serviced 26-bunk hut in the Tauranga area. Please note there is an alert: the Waipapa Track bridge is damaged. See the DOC website for details. Backcountry Hut Passes and Hut Tickets cannot be used at this hut. Camping is available.
Track Details:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Waitawheta Tramway: 8hr return
Follow an old tramline (1898 - 1928) on a relatively flat track through the spectacular Waitawheta Gorge. The start of the track is about 11 km from Waihi. Follow the Waitawheta Tramway until you reach a suspension bridge to the site of a replica logging bogie. Continue south along the tramline. The main track requires one river crossing but there is a bypass track that requires just a few small side stream crossings. The main track then leaves the river and through a campsite before reaching the toilet bowl waterfall, the Waitawheta Hut, and the site of the old logging mill. Return via the same track, or spend the night to explore more of the park. Beware of heavy rain swelling the streams.
Timing:
Drive time from UoA Clock tower: 1hr 40min (to get to Karangahake gorge)
Multi-day Trips
Pouakai Circuit
Hike time: 2-3 days; 25km total
Walk type: Multiday
Region: Taranaki
Grade/Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Drive time (from UoA): 5 hrs
Short (and it can be short) description: this up and coming popular track has well maintained tracks with plenty of board walks. Enjoy the iconic view of the Pouakai tarns. Can be busier in the summer season. On good days, the track offers spectacular views of Mt Taranaki and the surrounding countryside. Passes through forest, alpine tussock fields and the unique Ahukawakawa Swamp.
Following the Holly Hut track, you’ll meander up through montane forest and subalpine scrub. Walk beneath cool lava columns and cross the Boomerang Slip - don’t stop! Once passing the Kokowai Track turnoff, the track will gradually descent to the Ahukawakawa Track Junction. On a clear day you can marvel at Taranaki’s proud form (if it decides to shed its shroud of clouds) and doing a 180 - get a nice overview of the track you’ve yet to cover. Turn left at the junction for a 5min walk to Holly Hut - but be aware the Minarapa Stream just prior to the hut can be impassable after heavy rain. If you have time, a 30-min side trip along the Bells Falls track takes you to an awesome 31m waterfall. After Holly, return to Ahukawakawa Track and follow the boardwalks across Ahukawakawa Swamp. After the swamp get ready for a bit of a punchy hill-climb as you ascend the ridge to the Poukai Track. If weather permits, check out the trig station (1.5hr return). On your third day return uphill to the Poukai Track and turn left to traverse open tussock lands, passing the instagram-worthy alpine tarns reflecting proud Taranaki. There’s a bit of a climb up Henry Peak before descending the track down into lowland forest. You can return via the road (quickets) or keep following the track to the Visitor Centre.
Suggested Route (can be reversed):
North Egmont VC to Holly Hut: 3-4hr, 7.5km
Holly Hut to Pouakai Hut: 2-3hr, 4.5km
Pouakai to North Egmont VC: 5-7hr, 13km
Tongariro Northern Circuit
Website: https://www.doc.govt.nz/tongarironortherncircuit
Hike time: 3-4 days
Distance: 43.1 km loop
Walk type: Multiday
Region: Tongariro National Park
Grade/Difficulty: Intermediate
Drive time (from UoA): 4.5 hours
Short (and it can be short) description: Enjoy the views of the tongariro crossing and the desert further on. This ‘great walk’ can be done cheaper outside of the GW season, however you have to be careful around the snow risk. You can walk the full circuit in either direction. Most people take 3 or 4 days, with 2 or 3 overnight stays. Very fit people can walk it in 2 days, but each day is at least 8 hours. Wander through desert fields and plunge into the forest. When heading to the Waihohonu Hut (a great walk hut) prepare for flat areas exposed to wind and rain.
Walking from Whakapapa to Mangatepopo is pretty straight forward and can be done in probably just over 2 hours. Get a decent dinner going and spend a moment stargazing - you’ll be sure to catch a few shooting stars in these skies! Your second day is probably a bit tough as you’ll be ascending Devil’s Staircase before hitting the Red Crater. Make sure the weather is favourable when tackling this section. Once you amble down past Emerald lakes, turn right at the junction and find yourself wandering through unusual jagged lava forms which give off a serious Skyrim-vibe. If you have time to spare, check out the waterfall by Oturere Hut! Once you’ve spent the night here, you’ll pass over a number of stream valleys and open gravel fields to get to Waihohonu Hut. This last day might be a bit challenging, as you can face strong winds up on Tama Saddle with little offerings of shelter.
Whakapapa Village to Mangatepopo Hut: 3hr, 8.5km
Mangatepopo Hut to Oturere Hut: 3hr, 8km
Oturere Hut to Whakapapa Village: 5hr, 14.3km
NB: Huts and campsites must be booked in advance in the Great Walks season. Outside the Great Walks season, it is first come, first served.
Around the Mountain Circuit - Taranaki
Hike time: 3-4 days
Walk type: Multiday
Region: Taranaki regional park
Grade/Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced
Bookings: None
Drive time (from UoA): 5 hours
The challenging Taranaki Around the Mountain Circuit (AMC) offers you spectacular bush and alpine scenery. It takes you through the remote north eastern part of Taranaki, through tussock fields and along river beds, all while giving spectacular views of Mt Taranaki
Track details:
Your first day will consist of walking up the Holly hut track alongside The Razorback, before you turn North-west, steadily working your way through the cut track on the mountain side, passing through Boomerang Slip before descending past the Holly Hut Track/Kokowai Track junction to Holly Hut. The second day is arguably the hardest as you work your way through the more rugged side of Taranaki. You’ll spend some time working your way down Stony River, before darting into the bush, crossing many streams along your way to Waiaua Gorge Hut. The third day will be your longest, as you either need to push for Waingongoro Hut, stay at Symes hut or camp outside of the recently burnt down Lake Dive Hut. Going on the high route rewards you with some great alpine views. On your last day you’ll be heading back to North Egmont, either passing Manganui Lodge or East Egmont
Note: Lake Dive Hut burnt down, so come prepared to tent or for a long day. DO NOT attempt during bad weather, as the water level many stream and river crossings can rise greatly, and prove fatal. There are many options on the AMC, either by taking high or low route options. Please consult your group and decide beforehand, and plan accordingly
Timing:
Drive time from UoA Clock tower: 5 Hours
North Egmont to Holly hut: 3-4 hours - 8km
Holly Hut to Waiaua Gorge Hut: 7-9 hours - 13km
Waiuau Gorge hut to Lake Dive Hut: 6-7 hours - 10km
Waiuau Gorge hut to Waingongoro Hut: 10-12 hours - 20km
Waiuau Gorge hut to Syme hut: 9-10 hours - 18km
Waingongoro Hut to North Egmont: 6-9 hours (route depending) 12-15km
Round the Mountain Track - Ruapehu
Hike time: 3-6 days depending on group
Distance: 66.2 km loop
Walk type: Multiday
Region: Tongariro National Park
Grade/Difficulty: Intermediate
Drive time (from UoA): 4.5 hour
The Round the Mountain Track showcases the varied volcanic landscapes, remaining bush, wonderful waterfalls, alpine wildlife and alpine vegetation on the flanks of the active volcano Mount Ruapehu. This track has something for everyone, and makes for a great start to longer trips.
Track details: This track can be walked in both clockwise and anti clockwise directions. For this write up, we are going to go clockwise.
Your first day you’ll be following the Taranaki Falls Track from Whakapapa village. From the falls you continue along the Tama Lakes track, passing by the Upper Tama Lakes Track (Which is a good side track if you have the time) and slowly descending through tussock fields to Waihohonu Hut. Your next day starts along the RTM track, passing Ohinepango Springs (try to spot some Whio here) before slowly raising up to a proper alpine environment. You meet with the Tukino access road, and continue on to Rangipo hut, the highest hut on this Track. The next day starts out with a big descent to the Wahianoa River, and rising up again as you loop around the mountain, going in and out of the bush before emerging on Mangaehuehu Hut. From there, you’ll walk out to the Ohakune Mountain Road, walking up it before joining back onto the track, walking down the side of a waterfall before Mangaturuturu Hut. You then ascend up past Lake Surprise, going through slightly overgrown bush before descending down a rock slope to Whakapapaiti Hut. The last bit of your journey takes you down the Whakapapaiti stream, through the bush and back to Whakapapa Village
Notes: Waihohonu MUST be booked in advance during the great walk season. You are exposed for a lot of the track, and if sunny, you are at great risk of being sunburnt.
Timing:
Whakapapa Village to Waihohonu Hut: 5 hours - 14.5 km
Waihohonu Hut to Rangipo Hut: 5 hours - 12.5 km
Rangipo Hut to Mangaehuehu Hut: 3-4 hours - 8.5 km
Mangaehuehu Hut to Mangaturuturu Hut: 4-5 hours - 12 km
Mangaturuturu Hut to Whakapapaiti Hut: 3-4 hours - 10.3 km
Whakapapaiti Hut to Whakapapa Village: 2.5 hours - 8.7 km
Te Urewera - Manuoha-Waikareiti Track
Hike time: 3 days, 32km one way
Walk type: Tramping
Region: East Coast
Grade/Difficulty: Advanced
Drive time (from UoA): 5hr 30 min
Description: The Manuoha-Waikareiti Track is a spectacular and challenging walk suited to reasonably experienced trampers. Walk along the ridge to catch a spectacular sunset from Manuoha hut, wander through fairy-tale like beech forests and chill at the shores of Lake Waikareiti.
Note: It’s important to respect local iwi (Ngai Tuhoe) as in September 2014, the Te Urewera Act of 2014 made significant changes to the framework for Te Urewera. Te Urewera Act was a key part of the Treaty of Waitangi settlement negotiated between Tūhoe and the Crown. The national park is now managed by local iwi and ask for respect of this ancient land.
Further Note: a shuttle service may be required (or two cars)
Further further note: Route 38 is a pain in the ass to drive through - a long winding road of gravel, roaming livestock, landslides and potholes - grab a 4WD that can handle 100km of gravel road.
Manuoha to Waikareiti track: 6hr
Start from SH 38, about 100 m upstream from the Waiotukupuna Bridge. The first 1-2 hours is a steady, steep climb. The hut is on top of Mt Manuoha (1,392 m). On a clear day, the snow-clad peaks of the central North Island volcanic region can be seen to the south. Manuoha Hut is situated 5 minutes past the trig.
Manuoha to Sandy Bay Hut: 8hr
This is the longest and most strenuous part of the trip. From Manuoha to the shores of Lake Waikareiti it winds down through the 'Goblin Forest' (beech trees bearded by moss). You can view Lake Waikareiti and catch glimpses of Kaipo Lagoon along the route. About 5 hours from Manuoha Hut, the route veers to the right and descends to the Kaipo Lagoon. From the lagoon there is a well defined track down to Sandy Bay Hut. The sunsets and sunrises on calm water give pretty photos. Don’t leave food out - the possums are brave! (Or just don’t give a damn).
Sandy Bay to Aniwaniwa: 4 hr - 7hr
The last day rewards you with an easy, well marked track along the shores of Lake Waikareiti. From the shelter there is an easy downhill walk to the end of the track. If you’re looking to suffer some more, you can follow the alternative route via Lake Ruapani which adds another 3 hours to your day. Past the wetland the track drops down for another 45 minutes to its end, giving good views of Lake Waikaremoana and the Ngamoko Range along the way. At the end of the track turn right to reach the start of the Waikareiti Track on SH38. Organise a shuttle otherwise it’s a long walk back to the cars.
Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk
Website:
Hike time: 3-4 days - 46 km
Walk type: Tramping
Region: East Coast
Grade/Difficulty: Advanced
Drive time (from UoA): 5.5hr
Lake Waikaremoana is part of the Great Walk family. You’ll find this one more of a backcountry, off the beaten track experience. Be immersed into stunning natural wilderness and welcomed into the homeland of Ngai Tūhoe. Leave with a sense of connection, rejuvenation and hauora (wellness). This track gives picturisc views over Lake Waikaremoana, and beautiful goblin forests on Panekiri Range.
Track Details: This track can be walked in both clockwise and anti clockwise directions. For this write up, we are going to go anti clockwise.
Starting from Onepoto Bay, you immediately start to rise up in elevation up to Panekiri Bluff, which gives a wonderful photo opportunity over the lake. Continue along the ridge line through the old goblin forests, and just past the peak of Puketapu is Panekire hut. The next day, you descend down from the ridge through the bush to Waiopaoa Hut. The track then follows along the lakefront, passing the Korokoro Falls Track, which makes for a great side track. The track passes Marauiti Hut before cutting through the bush, rejoining the lake side, with Waiharuru Hut just a few kilometers away. From this hut, the track then cuts back into the bush, following a predator free fence before rejoining the lake side, following the Whanganui Inlet before Whanganui Hut, with the road end only an hour away. There are multiple campsites along the track too that can be used
Notes: The road into Onepoto from Te Whaiti is (a pain to drive on) as it’s a poorly maintained gravel road, so either bring a 4x4, or drive slowly along, being deliberate about your driving
Note: There is a water taxi that can be booked to take you from end to end of the lake. Book this in advanced, or organize a car shuffle with another group
Note: It’s important to respect local iwi (Ngai Tuhoe) as in September 2014, the Te Urewera Act of 2014 made significant changes to the framework for Te Urewera. Te Urewera Act was a key part of the Treaty of Waitangi settlement negotiated between Tūhoe and the Crown. The national park is now managed by local iwi and ask for respect of this ancient land.
Timing:
Onepoto to Panekire Hut: 4-6 hour - 8.8 km
Panekire Hut to Waiopaoa Hut: 3-4 hours - 7.6 km
Waiopaoa Hut to Marauiti Hut: 3-4 hours - 11 km
Marauiti Hut to Waiharuru Hut: 2 hours - 6.2 km
Waiharuru Hut to Whanganui Hut: 2-3 hours - 5.5 km
Whanganui Hut to Hopuruahine Landing/road end: 1-2 hours - 4.2 km