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GEOTHERMAL WONDERS, LAKESIDE TRAILS, AND REDWOOD GIANTS

Experience the raw beauty of Rotorua over three distinct days. From sleeping on the thermally heated sands of Hot Water Beach to tackling the endurance-testing Whakarewarewa Circuit, this weekend offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and physical challenge.

We will journey from Auckland to the heart of the Bay of Plenty for a multi-day adventure. This trip includes a unique overnight camping experience on the shores of Lake Tarawera, a relaxing Saturday evening in the Redwoods, and a serious endurance hike on Sunday to cap off the weekend.
Difficulty Note: This event is suitable for hikers with high fitness levels. While Friday and Saturday are moderate, Sunday’s hike is a 32km endurance challenge (Grade 4) requiring stamina and grit.

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ITINERARY FRIDAY, APRIL 17 – THE TARAWERA JOURNEY

  • 08:00 AM: Depart Auckland. We will coordinate carpooling at the meeting point.
  • 11:00 AM: Arrive in Rotorua. Short break for early lunch/coffee.
  • 12:30 PM: Start the Tarawera Trail.
  • Stats: 15 km | 476m elevation | 4.5-5 hours.
  • Late Afternoon: Arrive at Hot Water Beach. Set up camp.
  • Evening: Cook dinner at the campsite and soak in the thermal waters of the lake edge.
  • Accommodation: Camping at Hot Water Beach DOC Campsite. (Must be booked in advance).

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SATURDAY, APRIL 18 – LAKES & REDWOODS

  • Morning: Hike back from Hot Water Beach to the trailhead.
  • Stats: 15 km | ~4.5-5 hours.
  • Lunch: Regroup in Rotorua for a hearty lunch.
  • Afternoon: Scenic visit to the Blue Lake (Tikitapu) and Green Lake (Rotokakahi) viewpoints. Afterward, we will stretch our legs on the Redwoods Treewalk (free ground-level loop) to admire the giants.
  • Evening: Group dinner in town.
  • Optional: Redwoods Nightlights. For those interested, we can book the suspended tree-walk illuminated by David Trubridge lanterns.
  • Accommodation: Haka House Rotorua.

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SUNDAY, APRIL 19 – THE ENDURANCE TEST

  • 08:00 AM: Start the Whakarewarewa Circuit.
  • Stats: 32.2 km loop | 1068m elevation gain | ~8 hours | Difficulty Level 4.
  • Mid-Hike: Lunch on the trail with views over the lakes.
  • 04:00 PM (Approx): Finish hike. High fives and cold drinks.
  • Late Afternoon: Drive back to Auckland.
  • Evening: Arrive in Auckland (approx. 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM).

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ACCOMODATION
Important: You are responsible for booking your own accommodation. Please book ASAP as these spots fill up quickly.
1. Friday Night: Hot Water Beach Campsite (DOC)

  • Cost: Approx. $15 per person.
  • Note: You must bring your own tent, sleeping mat, and sleeping bag.
  • Book here: DOC Booking

2. Saturday Night: Haka House Rotorua

  • Cost: Dorm beds approx. $40 (prices vary). Private rooms available.
  • Location: Central Rotorua.
  • Book here: Haka House Website or via the Booking.com mobile app.

SAFETY AND RESPONSIBILITY
Your safety is your responsibility. While we organize the logistics and lead the group, outdoor activities involve inherent risks. By joining this event, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety, equipment, and well-being at all times. Please ensure you are physically fit for the difficulty level described (especially for Sunday's 32km hike) and have the correct gear. If you have any medical conditions, please inform the organizer in confidence prior to the event.

WHAT TO BRING

  • Hiking Gear: sturdy boots/trail shoes (broken in), 32L+ pack for Friday (needs to carry sleeping gear), day pack for Sunday.
  • Camping Gear: Lightweight tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, cooking stove/gas/utensils (can share in pairs).
  • Food: Dinner for Friday (camp meal), Breakfast x2, Lunch x3, Snacks/hydration. (Saturday dinner is at a restaurant).
  • Clothing: Thermal layers, rain jacket, swimwear for Hot Water Beach.
  • Misc: Headtorch (essential), trekking poles (recommended for Sunday), blister kit.

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CONTRIBUTION
To cover the organization and administration of this event, a small contribution is required from each participant.
Amount: $10.00 Pay to: Wakahi.com Limited Account Number: 02-0200-0260173-000 Reference: [Your Name] - Rotorua

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