Kaiaraara Track and Kauri Dams
Alert/Important notice
Track is open, new work at the bottom may confuse some people. Temporary signage is in place to help with directions.
Walking track
Time:
3 hr one way
Getting there
The track begins from Forest Road past the Kaiaraara Hut. Access to Forest Road is from Aotea Road, Port Fitzroy.
About the area
Great Barrier Island is the largest island off New Zealand's North Island and lies 100 kilometres north-east of Auckland. More than 60 per cent of the island is managed by DOC.
Description
Remains of kauri dam, Great Barrier
Island
From the Kaiaraara Hut the track rises steadily up to the north east fork of the Kaiaraara Stream to the Coopers Castle Track junction. It then continues upstream to the side track leading to a preserved kauri dam (1 hr 30 min) and climbs steeply up wooden steps (that were built to protect the black petrel nesting grounds and sensitive ecosystem) to the summit of Hirakimata (Mt Hobson).
There are great views of the Hauraki Gulf on a fine day.
Places to stay
This is a 28-bunk serviced hut in the Great Barrier area.
Plan and prepare
- Beware steep drop offs.
- Take care when crossing streams.
- Prepare for colder changeable weather conditions at summit.
- During wet periods the steep track approaching the summit can be wet, muddy and slippery.
- Do not attempt to access the Kauri Dam. If you are going beyond the viewing platform you are putting yourself and others at serious risk and any rescue attempt would be delayed.
What to expect on a walking track:
- Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
- Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
- Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required