Located in Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park in the Bay of Plenty region
The North-South Track takes at least five days of serious tramping. The walk can be shortened by entering or exiting the Forest Park at a side track. This tramp involves many river crossings, steep and technical terrain, and includes remote areas which are challenging to maintain and may involve navigating around landslides and fallen trees.
The old North-South track along the crest of the main range from Mount Te Aroha through Pahiko and Wahine Rock is an unmaintained route, extremely muddy, and often overgrown. It is suitable for expert backcountry trampers only.
The recommended North-South track is via Waitawheta Hut, and the Waitawheta and Wharawhara valleys.
There are some huts that can be used during this tramp but camping is also necessary along the way.
These two huts are accessed by difficult routes and should only be attempted by experienced trampers.
This is because the distance between these two huts is not considered a reasonable day’s tramp, camping is unavoidable. It is, therefore, better to skip both huts and plan to camp once or twice near Thompson’s Track junction, along the Aongatete River, north of Wairere Falls Track junction, and/or at Ngamuwahine Shelter.
The following itinerary, over seven days, is a guide only:
The track starts from Karangahake Gorge, off SH2 at Karangahake. The track exits on to SH29 at the Kaimai Summit.
There is a river crossing on this track.
You must be well prepared when tramping. Ensure you have a tent, sleeping bag, topographic map, torch, strong boots, warm clothing, a good raincoat, first aid kit, ample food and drink, a hat, and sunscreen. Do not rely on mobile coverage, which is intermittent.
Take the right gear to keep yourself safe on your tramp.
Tell someone your plans using the Outdoors Intentions form including when to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.
Tauranga Office | |
Phone: | +64 7 578 7677 |
Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
Email: | taurangainfo@doc.govt.nz |
Address: |
253 Chadwick Road West Greerton West Tauranga 3112 |
Postal Address: |
PO Box 9003 Greerton West Tauranga 3142 |
Full office details |