Pylon Peak Track

Greetings Everyone - If you love the reward of a fantastic view after completing a relentless climb then this is the hike for you!

Our track starts at the bottom of the Waiorongomai Valley and continues up to the Kaimai Ridgeway Track (formerly the North-South Track) that runs the length of the Kaimai Ranges.

Looking at the map our elevation gain is roughly 700m over a distance of 5km. It is a pretty relentless steady uphill climb through beautiful forest with a soft trail under foot. Although it does get trickier near the top as the track narrows and gets rocky, slippery and wet. Due to the physicality of the climb and the technical difficulty at the top I'm going to give this walk a grade 4.0 rating.

There is also a river that we have to cross right at the beginning and the end. You will get your feet wet, almost up to your knees, as there are not enough rocks to jump across on. If you are quick you can take your boots off, wade across, then put them back on.

There are extensive views of the Waikato from the junction of Pylon Peak Track and the Kaimai Ridgeway Track. The vegetation around this location is quite low, allowing for expansive views. You can continue along the trail to reach the summit of Pahiko, but unfortunately there are no easily accessible views from this rocky outcrop so I do not intend on going this far. We return to Waiorongomai Road following the same track back down.

There are still a few remains to be spotted of the steel power pylons which were used for the power line linking the Horahora hydro-electric power station with the Waihi gold mine and Victoria Battery in the Karangahake Gorge. Hence the naming of the track. But the biggest pylon you will see is actually across the valley to the pylon at the top of Te Aroha summit.

On our drive back to Auckland we will stop in at the Grand Tavern in Te Aroha for some well deserved refreshments.

If the weather forecast turns nasty this walk will be rescheduled as standing out in the open at the top of almost the highest point in the Kaimai Ranges holding a metal walking pole above your head during a storm, might not be the most sensible thing to do.

Duration: About 5-6 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 10-11 km.
Difficulty: 4.0 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.
Low tide: N/A
What the Grade means

Toilets: 1 minute up the trail from the car park (bring a torch, lol)

● 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 the Grand Tavern, Te Aroha.

● 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
• Waiorongomai Valley car park - the northern end of Waiorongomai Rd
• The Grand Tavern - 81 Whitaker St, Te Aroha

● Carpooling:

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

● Time Guideline: Times are Approx.
7:20 - Good time to arrive at New World
7:35 - Car pooling organised and leave
9:30 - All arrive at hike start
9:40 - Introductions and start the walk
12:30 - Lunch at the view point
15:30 - Hiking finish
15:45 - The Grand Tavern, Te Aroha
19:00 - Arrive back at New World

● Maps and More Information:
Driving Instructions

● Bring:

• Suitable clothing for the conditions
• Food for lunch
• Shoes suitable for a rough muddy track
• 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 weekend.