Dome Forest car park to Govan Wilson Rd, Matakana
Track category
Tramping track
Time:
7 hr one way
Distance:
14 km to Govan Wilson Road
Description
The track begins at the Dome carpark, and takes you first to the lookout and Dome summit, then to the Waiwhiu kauri grove (see links to descriptions above).
The track continues from the Waiwhiu kauri grove along the ridgeline through attractive forest with glimpses of the surrounding countryside and coast then descends through pines to a 4WD clay road. Turn left down the road to meet Waiwhiu Valley Rd (a private forest road). Here you turn right and take the road for 200 m to a sign pointing left to the Waiwhiu Stream crossing.
Once over the stream, follow the bush track along the river to the right for 1.6 km to reach the Totara Peak Scenic Reserve. The track here climbs steeply up to a ridge with enjoyable views. At the junction of Conical Peak Rd (clay 4WD track), turn right and follow this road northwards until it meets Govan Wilson Rd.
The track to Totara Peak Scenic Reserve crosses private land in the Waiwhiu Valley so please keep to the track or forest road.
Getting there
The walk starts at the Waiwhiu kauri grove to get here you must first complete the Dome Forest car park to lookout short walk and then the Waiwhiu kauri grove tramping track.
Plan and prepare
- Dogs are not permitted on the tracks because of the threat they pose to stock and wildlife. Exceptions include certified guide dogs and permitted hunting dogs.
- The Waiwhiu Stream may be unsafe to cross after heavy rain.