Tatu to Te Rerepahupahu Falls track
Tramping track
Time:
3 - 4 hr
Getting there
The entrance to this route is on Waro Road off SH43 (in dry weather it is possible to drive the 5 km to the Tatu Mine).
About the area
Waitaanga Forest is unusual in that it contains the only remnant silver beech stand in Taranaki. In addition, poorly drained parts support a number of other regionally rare plants such as giant astelias, dracophyllum, (neinei) and swamp sedges. The forest is also home to the short tailed bat and the endangered dactylanthus taylori (wood rose).
Description
Follow the ridge uphill through regenerating kamahi forest.
After 1 hr the track reaches the main ridge and Tatu trig (606 m). The track then follows a ridge line above the Tangarakau River. Mature rimu rise above the tawa canopy.
Te Rerepahpahu Falls
The track enters an open beech forest before descending steeply to the junction of the Waitaanga Stream and Tangarakau River.
A swing bridge spans the Tangarakau River, the track follows the Waitaanga Stream to Te Rerepahupahu Falls. There is a clearing beside the falls which can be used for camping. There are no other facilities.
From the campsite you can return to Waro Road (4 hr), or with prior transport arrangements:
Plan and prepare
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
Location map
