The Hakarimata Kauri Loop is accessed from the north end of the Hakarimata Walkway (also a section of Te Araroa) in the Waikato. Access to the north end of the walkway is off Parker Road from Riverview Road. From the car park, walk uphill (many steps) 1.4 km past the first access to the loop to the second access.
The loop initially takes you through a recovering section of native forest on a winding downhill leg. You then arrive at a grove that includes some quite big kauri trees, well over 100 years old. From there, continue along the track through regenerating kauri forest with many rickers (baby trees) to the ancient tree. This is one of the oldest and largest in the Waikato, at 1,000 years old.
Hakarimata was originally covered with rimu and kauri trees, but these were largely cut down over 100 years ago. The big kauri is the only ancient survivor, and according to the panel, no one knows why it was left untouched. From there, continue to reconnect with the main track.
If you just want to see the giant kauri, it is only a 20 to 30-minute walk from the car park.
