Karangahake Climb

Greetings Everyone - Who is up for a hike with a real climb? Lets get to the top of Mt Karangahake. Bottom to top the elevation gain is a little under 500m. It is also a longer trek than our normal hikes, at 17km.

I'm thinking we will do a long steady climb up and a shorter steeper descent back down.

We will start by walking up the valley on the Windows Walk, 4km. This involves going through two mining tunnels and some beautiful forest beside the Whaitawheta River. Eventually we cross a swing bridge over the river and turn right onto the Bubbo 96 track. This point marks the beginning of the real ascent to the top, a steady climb over about 6-7km under forest canopy.

Lunch will be at the summit before we descend via the Mt Karangahake Walk track. A much shorter route back down. Assuming the weather holds we should have expansive views from the top.

The distance, at about 17km, and elevation gain makes this hike tougher than our recent past hikes. For this hike you need to be able to walk at a medium to fast pace over a rugged forest track so we can complete the circuit in good time.

On the way back to Auckland we will stop in Paeroa at One3One for refreshments. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the giant L&P bottle.

Duration: About 5 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 17 km.
Difficulty: 3.5 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.
Sunset: 5pm
What the Grade means

Toilets: At the carpark
● Cost: $25 for New World Car Poolers

● PLEASE: No smoking, animals, children or guests.

● Post Hike Gathering (Optional): After our adventure, you're welcome to join us for some well deserved relaxation and camaraderie at One3One restaurant, cafe and Bar in Paeroa.

● First Timers & Regulars:
Welcome first timers to Auckland Global Trekkers, we look forward to meeting you. We ask everyone to bring a gold coin donation to help pay for the website and more safety equipment for the group, or donate online. Bank Account is: 12-3430-0791504-00 - Many thanks

● Important Notes:
Care must be taken walking. Make sure you have the appropriate footwear for hiking.

● Health and Safety Information:
All Auckland Global Trekkers organisers work on a strictly voluntary basis and hold NO responsibility or liability for any injury, or loss suffered during the events organised. Each person who participates accepts responsibility for making their own determinations and for their own safety, conduct and well being; recognising that there are hazards in attending group and outdoor activities and agrees to participate solely at their own risk.

● Preparation is the key to having a good day:

• Check the weather
• Do you have the correct clothing and shoes?
• Bring food for your lunch
• Do you know where the meeting places are?

● Meeting Places:

• New World Victoria Park - Scotland Street
• Karangahake Gorge main car park
• One3One - Restaurant, cafe and bar, 131 Normanby Road, Paeroa

● Carpooling:

• Carpooling will be arranged for everyone meeting at New World.
• Just ANSWER the RSVP question.

● Time Guideline: Times are Approx.
7:30 - Good time to arrive at New World
7:45 - Car pooling organised and leave
9:30 - All arrive at Karangahake Gorge main carpark
9:45 - Introductions and start the walk
13:00 - Lunch at Mt Karangahake summit
15:00 - Hiking finish
15:15 - One3One
18:30 - Arrive back at New World

● Maps and More Information:
Karangahake Gorge
Driving Instructions

● Bring:

• Suitable clothing for the conditions
• Torch for the tunnels
• Food for lunch
• Shoes suitable for track walking
• Sun and emergency rain protection
• First-aid items

● Additional Notes:

• Safety and togetherness are our priorities. We will make stops at all track junctions to ensure the group stays together.
• Punctuality is key, and we will depart on time, so please be prompt.

We can't wait to explore the great outdoors with you this Monday.