Moanui, Nikau, Wairata Track
Track category
Route
Time:
8 - 10 hr
Description
As much of the track is via the river bed it is essential to check the local river conditions before setting out.
Moanui Valley Road End to Koranga Forks Hut
Time: 2 hr
From Moanui Valley Road, take the track to Koranga Forks Hut alongside the Koranga River. The hut is sited where the Koranga River and Kahunui Stream meet to form the headwaters of the Waioeka River.
Koranga Forks Hut to Nikau Flat Hut
Time: 3 - 4 hr
From Koranga Forks Hut, continue north along the bed of the Waioeka River until you reach Nikau Flat Hut.
Nikau Flat Hut to Kotepato Hut
Time: 2 - 3 hr
From Nikau Flat Hut, continue north along the Waioeka River. About 1.5 hours north of the hut there is a track to the east that takes you on a 1km detour up Te Pato Stream to Kotepato Hut. Note that this hut recieves minimal maintenance and may be in use by DOC contractors.
Kotepato Hut to Wairata Road end
Time: 1 - 2 hr
From Kotepato Hut return to the Waioeka River and head downstream. The track turns into a 4WD road and reaches Redpath Road after 4km.
Getting there
Travel halfway (42 km) through the Waioeka Scenic Gorge on SH2 from Opotiki. Turn into Wairata Road and travel for 2km before turning right and crossing a bridge onto Redpath Road.
Activities
Fishing
This challenging track cuts through dense bush and traces the headwaters of the Waioeka and its tributaries, offering excellent opportunities for trout fishing.
About the area
This challenging track traces the headwaters of the Waioeka and provides a link between the Waioeka Gorge and Waioeka Conservation Area.