Kuataika & Smyth - Anawhata
Details
PLEASE REGISTER AT MOA OUTDOORS
On Saturday we will walk Kuataika Track from Anawhata Road, through to Wainamu Junction then along Smyth Ridge Track to its Corner. This is a track junction and our turnaround point. The Trig, its views toward Bethells, and the elevation gain are the highlights of the day.
From Auckland Parks online
Recently re-opened, the Kuataika Track offers a rewarding west coast adventure through farmland, native bush, and sweeping coastal views. This is a back-country (?) experience and requires a good level of fitness, planning and preparation.
Trail details:
• Surface: very well groomed metal track with board walks and (relentless) stairs and well formed steps.
• Width: approx. 1 m with some narrow sections
• Gradient: steady climbs and descents, including (long) steep sections!!
• Features: steps, boardwalks, farm gates, and water table drains
🌿 What to expect
• 500 m walk through farmland from the car park
• Native bush tracks with stream crossings and a suspension bridge
• Steep ridge climbs with steps and rewarding views
• Final climb to Kuataika Trig
🌄 Highlight
Kuataika Trig offers expansive views over Te Henga (Bethells Beach) and the Tasman Sea - a perfect spot for a well-earned break.
🥾 Track options
Return from the trig for a solid 3-hour round trip or continue an extra 1 km to connect with Smyth Ridge Track. When done together as we are, this is for experienced hikers only.
THE DIRT -
• Time: Approx. 3 hours plus Smyth 1 hour - moderate to fast, NOT slow
• Distance: 15km out and back
• Elevation gain: 609m plus Smyth about 100m (total 709m that includes the 220m FINISHER climb out of Anawhata Stream Valley to finish.
• Difficulty: Auckland Council graded intermediate tramping track (Kuataika) there is a steep stepped climb out of Anawhata Stream Valley of around 220m. Smyth track graded for experienced only - regular hikers will be fine.
• Terrain: see above
• Grade: 3.25-3.5
LOCATIONS
Hike start and finish
Kuataika Track, Anawhata Road, past Craw Homestead.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Rtqvm3hkphmhB3XbA
There is no toilet available nearby.
REFRESHMENTS - optional
The Hangar, 104 Central Park Drive, Henderson
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hxa8qoiLkJwNdvSK9
SCHEDULE
7.22am sunrise
8.45am last time to arrive - 8k on gravel road so allow extra time
8.55am introductions
9.00am Hike Start
2.15-2.30pm Hike Finish
3.00pm refreshments at The Hangar, Henderson
4.00pm depart for Auckland
5.00pm arrive Auckland
5.19pm sunset
The cost for this hike is $5.
As we have Graded this as a 3.5, you will need to have hiked with us before. If not, best to skip this one and join us on one of our Grade 3.0 or lower events.