Rapurapu Track

Tramping track

Time:  

1 hr 15 min one way

Distance:  

5 km

Getting there

On SH 29, about 4 km past the Kaimai Summit towards the Waikato side, a short gravel road on the left (not signposted) leads to a parking area where the track begins.  This area is an ecological reserve within the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park.

Description

The first 600 m are through a previously grazed area that is being revegetated using radiata pine and tree lucerne as nursery crops.  The track enters a terrace of tawa forest then drops down to the Rapurapu Stream which it then follows, before reaching a boardwalk at the base of the kauri trees.  The largest tree measures 180 cm in diameter and 14 m to the first branch.  A view of the three big trees may be obtained from the rocks in the middle of the stream, just before climbing the boardwalk steps. Kauri have a shallow root system which can easily be damaged. Please keep to the board walk to avoid trampling the sensitive roots.Return along the same track.

Plan and prepare

Caution! Multiple river crossings are required. These are not difficult during good weather but may become impassable after heavy rain.

Please consult a topographic map.

Mountain biking is not permitted.

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

 

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