Waima Main Range Track

Located in Waima & Mataraua Forests in the Northland region

This rugged and challenging track passes over some of Northland's highest points and offers occasional views over the surrounding forest and mountain range. Listen to Kokako around the Oraora Saddle.

The Waima Main Range Track follows the main ridgeline of the rugged and densely forested Waima Forest. The track passes over many peaks and over Northlands highest point, Te Raupua (781 m) eventually joining up with the historic Waoku Coach Road Track.

The closest hut is Framptons Hut − found near the northern end of the Waima Main Range Track. There are suitable camping sites along the track – near the junction of the Taita Bridle Track (E1649548, N6067067) and also near the eastern end of the track close to the junction with the Waoku Coach Road Track (E1653443, N6065745). Both have streams which can be used to collect water − water should be boiled.

Waima Main Range Track can be accessed from a number of tracks that connect to it. At the western end: Six Foot Track, Hauturu Highpoint Track and Taita Bridle Track; on the eastern end: Waoku Coach Road Track and Wekaweka Track.
  • The track is isolated and challenging − trampers need to be prepared and experienced in the backcountry.
  • Cellphone reception is limited especially towards the eastern end.

The vegetation is dominated by tawa, taraire, rimu, rata, and towai, and hosts to some of Northland's most rare and threatened plants.

The forest is also home to one of the few remaining populations of North Island kokako, which was discovered in 1996 and has been under sustained management since 2002.