| Location: | Te Urewera, North Island, New Zealand |
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate to Hard |
| Duration: | 3-4 days |
| Walking Distance: | 46 km |
| Walk Type: | Loop |
| Elevation Gain: | 1,200 m |
| Suitable for: | Fit walkers, nature lovers |
| Terrain and Track Surface: | Expect a bit of everything – well-formed paths, boardwalks, and some muddy bits if it’s been raining. Good hiking boots are a must! |
| Toilets: | You’ll find toilets at campsites and huts along the way |
| Dogs: | Sorry, no dogs allowed. |
Get ready for a visual feast – Lake Waikaremoana Track is packed with jaw-dropping views. You’ll trek through lush rainforests, stroll by crystal-clear lakes, and gaze at towering cliffs. Plus, the native birdlife will keep you entertained with their cheeky antics.
This place is rich with Māori history. The track winds through the ancestral lands of the Tūhoe people. So, while you’re soaking up the natural beauty, you’re also walking through stories that have been passed down through generations.
You can park at either Onepoto Bay or Hopuruahine Landing, depending on where you start your hike. Since it’s a loop, you’ll end up back where you started, making things nice and easy.
By Car:
By Public Transport: Public transport options are limited, so driving or arranging a shuttle is your best bet.
Expect a bit of everything – well-formed paths, boardwalks, and some muddy bits if it’s been raining. Good hiking boots are a must!
Spring and autumn are perfect for a hike – not too hot, not too cold, and fewer crowds. Summer is great too but can get busy. Winter? Only if you’re up for a cold, wet challenge.
Sorry, no dogs allowed. The area is protected, and we need to keep it that way for the local wildlife.
This track isn’t suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, or those with limited mobility due to the rugged terrain.
Older kids who love a good adventure will have a blast. Younger ones might struggle with the long days and rough paths.
There are five huts and several campsites along the track. Make sure to book ahead, especially in peak season. Check out the DOC website for all the details.
Kick off from Onepoto Bay and head clockwise. The first day is a bit of a climb, but the views are worth it. Each day offers a new mix of forest, lake, and mountain scenery, with plenty of spots to rest and soak it all in.
Nope, leave the drones at home. It’s all about keeping the peace and quiet out here.
After your trek, head to Wairoa for some well-deserved grub. Try Eastend Cafe for a solid coffee and a good meal.
Visit the Wairoa i-SITE Visitor Information Centre. Check their website for more info: Wairoa i-SITE.
Use HDR mode for those tricky lighting conditions. Get wide-angle shots of the lake and close-ups of the unique plants.
Layer up! Bring a waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, and comfy walking clothes. A hat and sunscreen are also a good idea.
The track is well-marked with clear signs. Just follow the trail markers, and you’ll be sweet.
No entrance fees, but you’ll need to book and pay for huts and campsites. Check the DOC website for the latest details.
Nope, it’s a walking track only.
Pack light but bring the essentials – food, water, first aid kit, and a good map. Start early each day to make the most of the daylight.
You’re looking at 3 to 4 days to finish the track, depending on how fast you walk and how many breaks you take.
Absolutely. You need to book huts and campsites ahead of time, especially during the busy seasons. Bookings can be made on the Department of Conservation’s website.
Cell phone reception is pretty hit-or-miss along the track. It’s best to assume you’ll have little to no service and plan accordingly.
Nope, dogs aren’t allowed on the track. It’s a protected area, and we need to keep it safe for the local wildlife.
Spring and autumn are your best bets for good weather and fewer crowds. Summer is also great but can get a bit busy, while winter is colder and wetter, best left to experienced hikers.
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