Dalys Clearing Loop Track
Tramping track
Time:
4 hr return
Distance:
7.5 km
Getting there
Track starts from the end of Franklin Road, off Waitawheta Road from SH 2 near Waikino.
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
This track begins approximately 200 metres south of the Franklin Road carpark, heading south-west and uphill through farmland. This track climbs through farmland for 30 minutes to reach the park boundary. The track then follows a spur up through bush for about 30 minutes to meet up with the Mangakino Pack Track. A highlight along this track is the extensive groves of nikau nestled under tall tawa, kohekohe and pukatea forest. Follow this track south until you reach the junction with the Dalys Clearing Track. Dalys Clearing Hut is about 15 minutes along this track, above the Romanga Stream. After passing the hut the track drops gradually to meet the Waitawheta Valley Tramway. From here you can either head directly north back to Franklin Road or south for approximately 20 minutes for the turn off to the Kauri Loop Track. Add an hour to your day if you wish to walk the Kauri Loop Track.
Places to stay
This is a standard 16-bunk hut in the Tauranga area.
Plan and prepare
Caution is required when crossing the Waitawheta River. The water level may rise quickly after rain, making the river impassable.
No Mountain biking is permitted.
Please consult a topographic 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