The Riuwaka (also Riwaka) Resurgence Track is just inside Kahurangi National Park. It is a must-do in the area and only takes about 30 minutes (return). It is stunning, mainly because of the intensity of the moss and lichen growing on the rocks and trees around the Riwaka River rapids as you walk up the trail. This intense green is interspersed with multi-coloured rocks and river stones.
The short trail takes you to the reason for the name – the point where the river resurges from an underground cave system. At this point, the water is very old and very fresh and is considered wahi tapu (sacred) by local Maori.
To get there, take a left into Riwaka Valley Road just before State Highway 60 to Golden Bay starts the climb up Takaka Hill. There is also a pretty campground about halfway along the road.
