Bluff Stream Kauri Loop Track
Tramping track
Time:
3 hr to complete loop
Distance:
4.5 km
Getting there
The track starts from the end of Franklin Road off Waitawheta Road, from SH 2, north of Tauranga.
About the area
Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park has a number of historic mining and kauri logging sites within its boundaries. The park also features several popular tramping tracks.
Description
Giant Kauri tree, through the Bluff
Stream Kauri Loop Track
From the end of Franklin Road the track follows the Waitawheta River with private farmland on either side where it soon meets up with the Waitawheta Tramline bed. The loop walk turns east off the Waitawheta tramway just past the entrance to the forest park, crossing the river at the marked point. Head up the spur eastwards to the Kauri Grove. The walk is pleasant with views over the open river and the approaching regenerating forest: young kauri, rimu, tanekaha, kahikatea and totara. Maungawhio Tapu ahead dominates the view; a dome shaped knoll whose rocky bluff indicates the northern extent of the gorge. The track rejoins the Waitawheta tramway, head back north to the end of Franklin Road.
Plan and prepare
Caution is requried when crossing the Waitawheta River as it can become impassable during heavy rain. The water level rises very rapidly. Cross only at marked points.
Multiple river crossings required.
No mountain biking permitted.
Please consult a topographical map.
What to expect on a tramping track:
- Challenging day or multi-day tramping/hiking
- Track is mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections
- Suitable for people with good fitness. Moderate to high level backcountry skills and experience, including navigation and survival skills required
- Track has markers, poles or rock cairns. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings
- Tramping/hiking boots required