Zion Hill to Pararaha Valley

On Saturday we will walk the Zion Hill Loop Track and also Pararaha Valley where we can stop for a break. Likely an early lunch.

Set in the wild beauty of the Waitākere Ranges, the recently re-opened Zion Hill Track Loop is a rewarding adventure for walkers looking for a challenging day out. This loop combines Zion Hill Track with sections of the historic tramway route through the sand dunes, climbing through coastal forest before descending to the dramatic west coast landscape.

Expect steep climbs, soft sand, and changing terrain as you make your way through regenerating bush, nīkau-filled gullies, wetlands, and coastal dunes. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Karekare Beach, the surrounding headlands, wetlands, and the Tasman Sea. Historic tramway remnants can still be spotted across the landscape, offering a glimpse into the area’s past.

The walk begins with a short five-minute walk from the Karekare car park (our meeting point) to Pōhutukawa Glade, where Zion Hill Track climbs steadily through coastal forest toward Mount Zion. After taking in the views, the track descends through lush gullies toward Pararaha Valley where we will have a look around and have an early lunch break. Thereafter we connect with the sandy tracks that lead to Tunnel Point and the coast. The route then follows sections of the historic tramway and Karekare Beach before returning through the dunes to complete the loop.

If the group finishes early, we could climb a small hill that over looks the river and waterfall near the car park.

This is a physically demanding track with steep climbs and extended sandy sections, best suited to walkers with a good level of fitness. As this is an exposed track, in the event of forecast high wind we may need to postpone to an alternative date.

9.50am Low tide 1.1m.
4.06pm High tide 3.5m.
I don’t foresee any issue with sea/tides walking the beach.

• Time: Approx. 4 - 4.5 hours
• Distance: 8.5 km loop plus Pararaha Valley explore
• Elevation gain: 347m (AllTrails)
• Difficulty: Intermediate tramping track – steep climbs and descents on steps and stairs.
• Terrain: Grass track, VERY WELL formed metal path, and soft & firm sand
• Grade: 3.0 - 4.5+ hours

LOCATIONS
Karekare Beach Car Park

https://maps.app.goo.gl/QHfpvoPZ7tqxQTjFA?g_st=ic

There is a toilet available at the car park.

Refreshments (optional)
Workshop Bar, Kelston
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3p1zYuaNyJapHQn58?g_st=ic

SCHEDULE
8.45am last time to arrive
8.50am introductions
9.00am Hike Start
9.50am low tide 1.1m
Early break at Pararaha Valley having had a look around the area
1.30+pm approximate arrival back to Karekare Beach car park
2.00 +/- refreshments at Workshop Bar, Kelston (optional)
3.00 +/- depart for Auckland
4.06pm high tide

I have the Hike Start at 9.00am as the car park fills up, making it more difficult to get a park.

The cost for this hike is $5. Please pay online Moa Outdoors new bank details or pay the host cash on the day.
Noel Keenan
12-3238-0727203-01

If you have enjoyed previous Moa events, please feel free to invite others to attend via Meetup.

RSVP QUESTION
Have you read the description and are you confident you can hike the steep climb and soft sand beach hike in the time prescribed?

HOUSEKEEPING
CAR POOLING:
We suggest passengers pay drivers $25 return for this one.

BRING:

• At least 2L drinking water.
• Lunch or snack food.
• Suitable footwear for surfaces described. Most of the track is great. Well groomed metal, board wall, stairs and steps. However we may have a look up a stream that is slippery and where you could get your feet wet!
  +Sun & rain protection.
  +Bags for wet and dirty footwear & clothing.
• Appropriate clothing for the season and forecasted/possible conditions.
• First-aid items (at least for cuts and scratches).

PREPARATION:
It is important to be well prepared.
Before we meet

• Know how to get to all meeting places.
• Study hike details.
• Prepare everything you need to bring.
• If you are the driver, have car refueled or recharged ready to go.
• Find and confirm your driver(passengers) whether they go to the pub or going home directly after the event.

HEALTH & SAFETY:
Our hiking activities come with some hazard & risks; our organizers are volunteers. By RSVP'ing you accept full responsibilities for your own safety and that you have read the description and are you confident you can complete the steep climb and soft sand beach hike in the time prescribed?

Looking forward to a great day outdoors.

Regards

Moa Outdoors