Howarth Memorial Wetlands Walk

Advertised as an hour walk I managed it with not too much trouble in thirty minutes but must admit, didn't stop and appreciate the views too much as I have done it many times before. It is a ramble through a lovely wildlife reserve- positioned around a very small man made lake. Oak trees edge some parts of the track.

The car park is situated right beside Kenwyn Rest home, on the Hamilton side of Te Aroha. One of the access leads off from here, but there are other easily accessed tracks around the whole loop which makes it an easy track for children.

The song of cicadas and the chattering of the ducks accompanied me on this very pleasant, easy walk.

Hakarimata Walkway

The Hakarimata walkway is a one way track but can be walked as a return trip to summit from either end. It can be accessed both from Ngarawahia and Huntly with the Ngarawahia track being a little more challenging. It is all stepped and I understand there are 1349 steps!!!! Haven't tried that side yet.  Huntly side can be accessed from Parker Road, and although this too is stepped,  it has some flat sections as well which are very pleasant. Allows the heart and  breathing rate to slow down.

It takes about thirty minutes through beautiful native bush: Rimu, Miro, Matai, Totara, Rata, Rewarewa,  Hangehange and Tawa. to reach the Kauri grove. From here another twenty minutes up steps and a clear track to reach the summit.

Beautiful views over Waikato farmland, Waikato River and Lake Waahi. Easy walk down Loop track.

 

This track is part of New Zealands Te Araroa Walkway stretching from

Cape Reinga to Bluff.

 

Omaru Hut

Saturday saw six of us tramping into the Oamaru DOC hut. This site is adjacent to Poronui Station off the Napier - Taupo Road. Beautiful Weather. Four hour walk in. Hiking food never gets any more enjoyable!! However sitting outside in the dusk, overlooking a most beautiful stream, is a wonderful reward for the hard work.