Kauri Loop Track
Walking track
Getting there
Starts from Parker Rd, off Hakarimata Rd near Ngaruawahia, 10 km from Hamilton.
About the area
The Hakarimata Scenic Reserve near Ngaruawahia is a great place to see kauri, especially the large kauri on the Kauri Loop Track.
Description
Time: To the kauri grove: 1 hr 20 min return
Full loop: 2 hr return
The track from Parker Road starts with a long flight of steps then levels out to traverse a largely open face with views to the north. Walk on past an old pa site and through bush to the large kauri trees. A few minutes further on you reach the kauri grove bush viewpoint. Return the way you came, or to complete the full loop, continue on through stands of large rimu to the top viewpoint with its spectacular views to the north and west. You can also walk for another 20 minutes along the Hakarimata Walkway to the southern lookout with views across Hamilton City. The track descends from the top viewpoint, past an attractive nikau palm grove to the lower viewpoint and carpark.
Plan and prepare
What to expect on a walking track:
- Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
- Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
- Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required