Summit Track
Summit Track
Hakarimata Scenic Reserve, Ngaruawahia
Maps
Photos
Information
The Hakarimata Reserve now covers over 1800 hectares with kauri, rimu and tawa in the forest. This is the highest viewpoint around and beest done early or late, when the Waikato River glistens like a silver thread.
Access
There is a parking area at Brownlee Avenue, where there are also toilets.
Track
Follow the Water Works Walk and just before the dam head right.
There now begins the journey of a 1000 steps - more in fact - 1349 according to the DoC brochure. The steady climb is punctuated with occasional inspirational quotes. For example “sweat is just fat crying”.
Occasional peeps out are not as impressive as the summit. At 374m, it is not high, but commands extensive views over the Waikato to Maungatautari.
Polynesian History
The name Hakarimata was conferred when a huge feast was prepared for guests ‘hakari kai mata’.
The tomokanga was unveiled in 2016 as a joint venture between DoC, Waikato District Council, Ngaruawahia Community Board and Waikato Tainui. It was carved by Master Carver Inia Te Wiata and depicts important tribal stories and histories.
Details
Moderate walk
2 to 4 hours
DOC Managed
Walking track
Contact
Reviews
Rocket
Ranking: 7/10
Awesome views from the top but lots of stairs and many people.
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Lauren Freeman
Ranking: 10/10
requires good level of fitness but if you go just before sunset (take a headlight) on the way back down there’s sooo many glow worms it’s magic!!!
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N smith
Ranking: 8/10
nice walk, but more of a climb, a very large amount of steps, great lookout point at top, can look over the waikato, firth of thames, coromandel ranges, out to the westcoat and even see mt Ruapehu on a very clear crisp day
DOC Managed
Thanks to all the good people working for the NZ Department of Conservation - for all your hard work - making NZ more beautiful, accessable and healthy! Cheers 😍
Nick Morrison
Rankers owner
