Kaitoke Hot Springs Track to Mt Hobson (Hirakimata)
Located in Great Barrier Island/Aotea in the Auckland region
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Introduction
Kaitoke Hot Springs Track is a popular easy walk following the edge of the Kaitoke Swamp to sulphurous hot springs. Continue on the Peach Tree Track to Mt Hobson (Hirakimata).7.9 km
Dog access
Kaitoke Hot Springs Track
Time: 1 hr one way
Starting from Whangaparapara Road, the journey to the top begins flat and easy - very friendly for push-chairs. The path follows an ancient shoreline traversing the Kaitoke wetlands and regenerating kānuka forest. You may hear the call of a fernbird or spotless crake. Orchids and sun dews flower close to the track. Forty-five minutes later, the track reaches the hot pools, dammed at a fork in Kaitoke Creek and surrounded by the delicate umbrella fern
Peach Tree Track to Mt Hobson (Hirakimata)
Time: 5 hr one way
From the hot pools, after a brief, steep climb and descent, the track joins Tramline Track with reminders of loggers’ toil and journeys of 80 years ago. Soon after, Peach Tree Track appears on the left and the climb to the summit begins through regenerating forest.
Thirty to forty-five minutes from the summit, the track passes Mt Heale and Mt Heale Hut. Wake up to wide views from the northwest through to the south.
Start Kaitoke Hot Springs Track from Whangaparapara Road.
Take care as the stream water may be hot. Do not put your head under the water in the pools.
Nearing the summit, the track leads into mature forest where logging was too difficult and fires on the lower slopes did not reach. Remnants of an ancient and precious conifer forest, rimu, Kirk’s pine, pink pine and kauri, can be seen here.
Keep an eye out for black petrel. Once widespread on the North Island, breeding colonies of these large, burrow-nesting seabirds are now confined to Great Barrier Island Aotea and Hauturu / Little Barrier Island. The main colony on Great Barrier Island Aotea breeds on the slopes of Mt Hobson (Hirakimata) between October and May each year. Mature birds spend months at sea flying as far as South America and only return to the island to breed. Watch out for them on the road at night.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Take the right gear for your trip: Walking and tramping gear lists.
- Tell a trusted person your plans and when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned. Send them the information directly, or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.
Stop kauri disease and protect kauri
- Scrub all soil off shoes and gear.
- Use cleaning stations.
- Always stay on the track.
Check you are pest-free
Check, clean, and seal your gear to ensure you don't bring pests, soil, and seeds.
Contacts
| Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 9 379 6476 |
| Email: | aucklandvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
No physical address Contact via email or phone |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 32026 Devonport Auckland 0744 |
| Full office details | |
