Waitawheta Tramway
Tramping track
Time:
8 hrs return
Distance:
7.5 km one way
Getting there
The tracks 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
From the end of Franklin Road the track follows the Waitawheta River. Pass through private farm land before entering the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park. It soon meets up with the historic Waitawheta Tramline bed. The track is relatively flat but requires several river crossings. Continue along the tramline and the spectacular Waitawheta Gorge until reaching Waitawheta Hut.
Activities
Historic sites
Places to stay
This is a standard 16-bunk hut in the Tauranga area.
This is a serviced 26-bunk hut in the Tauranga area.
Plan and prepare
Caution! is required when crossing the Waitawheta River as it can become impassable during heavy rain. The water level rises very rapidly. This track requires multiple river crossings to reach the Waitawheta Hut.
No mountain biking is permitted.
Please consult a topographic map.
You must be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on longer day walks. Ensure you have strong, comfortable boots, warm clothing, a good raincoat, first aid kit, food and drink, a hat and sunscreen. It is also advisable that you leave your tramping intentions with a responsible person, in case you get lost.
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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