Karamu Walkway

Tramping track

Getting there

Begins from the Four Brothers Scenic Reserve, on the Hamilton-Raglan highway (SH 23), or from Limeworks Loop Rd

Description

Ferns, Karamu Walkway

Track times

You can choose to do the whole walkway, one section of it, or simply wander up to enjoy the view then return to the carpark.

• SH 23 to Reserve Boundary 25 minutes
• SH 23 to Old Mountain Rd 1 hour
• Old Mountain Rd to Limeworks Loop Rd 2 hour 30 minutes - 3 hours

Superb 360 degree views and impressive limestone bluffs are features of this walk.

It provides an opportunity to walk over farmland with sheep, cattle and goats close at hand.

It is best to begin the walk at the Four Brothers Scenic Reserve carpark on the Hamilton-Raglan Highway (SH 23). A moderate climb through bush leads to the Reserve's southern boundary and open farmland. From this point you will be crossing privately owned land, so please respect the owner's rights and:

• Keep to the marked route.
• Do not disturb stock (note that bulls may be present).
• Do not take dogs on the walkway.
• Do not carry firearms.
• Use stiles, not gates.
• Avoid hay barns and other farm structures.
• Be careful with cigarette butts.
• Avoid using the walkway after dark.

Follow the white posts and orange walkway markers along the main ridge to Old Mountain Road. There are views of the Hakarimata Range in the north, Karioi and the coast in the west, Pirongia to the south and Hamilton to the east.

The next section of the walkway starts on the other side of Old Mountain Road. After an initial climb you cross gently rolling pasture studded with outcrops of limestone. The southern end of the track passes through a bush remnant then drops steeply down a farm road, crosses Kaniwhaniwha Stream and exits onto Limeworks Loop Road.

If you don't want to retrace your steps back along the track you will need to arrange transport from either Limeworks Loop Road or Old Mountain Road.

Plan and prepare

The walkway is closed each year during the lambing period 1 August to 30 September.

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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