Kauaeranga Valley tramping tracks
Located in Coromandel Forest Park and Kauaeranga Valley in the Coromandel region
Introduction
Find out about the tramping tracks in the Kauaeranga Valley area.Topographic map warning
Topo50 maps show tracks that have been permanently closed to prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease.
Walking and tramping
Advanced: Tramping trackDog access
There are a number of tramping tracks in the Valley to choose from.
Piraunui Track
Time: 2 hr one way
This track starts near the Kauaeranga Visitor Centre after crossing the Kauaeranga River (unbridged). Follow the markers across private farmland to the forest park boundary. Once in the forest, the track climbs up the western side of the valley to the Kopu-Hikuai Road. The Piraunui Valley contains forested river flats, stands of regenerating kauri and unusual rock formations.
Tarawaere Dam Track
Time: 2-3 hr loop
Just past the Totara Flat Campsite, cross the Kauaeranga River (there is no bridge) and follow the Tarawaere Stream, crossing it many times, to the remnants of a rafter flume dam (on which the model dam near the visitor centre is based). At the intersection above the dam the left fork continues the loop back to the Kauaeranga River. The other fork connects with the Billygoat Walk.
Tarawaere Dam - Billygoat circuit
Time: 4 hr
No dogs permitted
Beyond Tarawaere Dam the track follows an old packhorse trail and climbs to a ridge at 500 metres. This track is steep in places and can be slippery in wet conditions. It joins the Billygoat Walk near the remains of the Long Trestle. Follow the track back past the short trestles to the Kauaeranga River to complete a circuit.
Kauaeranga Road end to Moss Creek
Time: 3 hr one way
From the car park, go past the Webb Creek junction following the river. Cross the river on the suspension bridge and then climb steeply to the Moss Creek campsite.
No dogs permitted on this track.
Pinnacles Hut to Rangihau Road end
Time: 6 hr one way
No dogs permitted
The track descends steadily for about an hour to a river crossing (no bridge), then climbs steeply through scrubland. After crossing a side stream the track drops steadily through scrubland towards Rangihau Road. There is a further 3-4 hours of walking along a rough 4WD road to Coroglen unless arrangements have been made for a vehicle pick up.
Broken Hills via the Hihi
More extensive tramping from the Kauaeranga Valley through to Broken Hills is possible but should be attempted by experienced trampers only. For information on this track contact the Kauaeranga Visitor Centre.
Whangaiterenga to Crosbies Hut
Time: 4-6 hr one way
The track rises steadily from the Valley to Orange Peel Corner, crossing the Whangaiterenga stream three times. There are no bridges so not recommended after heavy rain.
The Kauaeranga Valley is east of Thames on the Coromandel Peninsula.
No heavy vehicles over 6,000 kg (class 2) can travel beyond Hotoritori Campsite on the Kauaeranga Valley Road due to road damage.
Thefts from vehicles
Isolated carparks are prone to theft. Don't leave any valuables in your vehicle. A bag storage facility is available at the Kauaeranga Visitor Centre.
Your safety is your responsibility
- 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.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Safety Code.
Stop kauri disease and protect kauri
- Scrub all soil off shoes and gear.
- Use cleaning stations.
- Always stay on the track.
Contacts
| Kauaeranga Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 7 867 9080 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | kauaerangavc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
995C Kauaeranga Valley Road Thames 3577 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 343 Thames 3540 |
| Full office details | |