Discover the Hakarimata Range
The Hakarimata Range, located just west of Ngāruawāhia and Taupiri in the Waikato region, offers stunning views of the confluence of the Waikato and Waipā Rivers. A highlight for visitors is the Hakarimata Walkway, which follows the ridgeline of the range and forms part of Te Aararoa. This area is particularly appealing for those interested in exploring native forests and enjoying panoramic vistas.
Exploring the Hakarimata Walkway
The Hakarimata Walkway can be accessed from several points, with one popular entry being the Kauri Loop Walk at the northern end of the range. The track offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, featuring a steep 240-metre vertical climb with numerous stairs over a distance of approximately 1.4 km. This ascent typically takes about 30 minutes and leads through a mix of regenerating and mature native forest.
Upon reaching the viewpoint at 260 metres, hikers are treated to expansive views over the Waikato River and the surrounding region. From this vantage point, you can continue along the Hakarimata Walkway to the Upper Lookout, located about 500 metres further along the trail. Alternatively, the Kauri Loop offers an additional 20 minutes of walking, enhancing the return journey with a scenic forest path through recovering kauri forest, but including a big ancient tree.
How to Get There
To reach the Hakarimata Walkway, drive along Riverview Road, which becomes Hakarimata Road, and then continue onto Parker Road to the car park and track access. Riverview Road runs along the western side of the Waikato River between Huntly and Ngāruawāhia.
While in the area, consider exploring nearby attractions such as Lake Hakanoa in Huntly and The Point in Ngāruawāhia, or scenic and historical Taupiri Mountain.
