Hapuakohe Range North to Point 403

On Saturday we will walk part of the northern section of Hapuakohe Range Walkway near Mangatarata. Starting at North Road, we head south to Point 403, the second lookout our turn around point.

The track starts on a gravel road and then joins a deforested area for a short time before entering the advanced tramping track. The track corridor is a little overgrown but easy enough to navigate if we stay together. The is a high number of orange markers.

DOC website has no alerts (25/4) and says;
There are two lookout points along the walkway:

• 1st lookout – 1 hour 30 minutes: 300 m above sea level the track leaves the bush onto a grassy clearing. (I did this in 1 hour).
• 2nd lookout – 3 hours: 400 m above sea level, with views which extend to the Huntly power station, Mt Te Aroha and the Hauraki Plains. The bush is comprised mostly of Kohekohe and large Puriri. (I did this in another 1 hour).

There is a nice open grass area for a (possibly extended, depending on the weather) break before we return to the cars on the same route.

THE DIRT
Out and back
• Time: Approx. 4.5 - 5 hours depending on speed of the group
• Distance: 11-12 km (Topo50)
• Elevation gain 320m (Topo50)
• Difficulty: advanced tramping track, limited corridor/vision - we need to stay connected to team members both in front and behind - this is everyone's responsibility
• Terrain: gravel road, deforested area, natural track
• Pace: medium+, this is not a slow hike
• Grade: 3.25+

LOCATIONS
Hike start and finish - 295 North Road, Mangatarata
https://maps.app.goo.gl/m6b8L64QXnDyqX8g8
Parking is pretty tight but with our small group should with full cars we should be ok. Do not block the gates!

There is a toilet available nearby at Native Tree Cafe at the start of North Road, at the exit of SH2. Suggest you make a purchase, if you intend to use. Lamb pies are impressive.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2xKfjegcFNmqwtFf9

REFRESHMENTS
Red Fox, Maramarua
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jXsvynyHJV5Vte8w5

SCHEDULE
6.56am sunrise
9.20am last time to arrive
9.25am introductions
9.30am Hike Start
2.45pm hike finish
3.05 refreshments at Red Fox, Maramarua
4.00 depart for home
5.52pm sunset

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 and leave a review.

RSVP QUESTION
Have you read the description and are you confident you can complete the hike in the time prescribed?

TURNAROUND
We don't intend to leave people behind. However, at any time on a hike if it is the opinion of the leader that you are struggling to keep with the group the leader may decide that you are unlikely to be able to complete the hike in the time prescribed. In this case, you may be asked to turn around and make your way back to the car. This decision will not be taken lightly but will be done with the principle of the entire group enjoying their day and everyone completing in a timely and safe manner.

HOUSEKEEPING
CAR POOLING:
We suggest passengers pay drivers $35 return for this one. Please comment if you can offer or need a ride. Filling up cars to comfortable level is better for petrol use and parking at the trail end.

Because Moa is a small and friendly group, it’s super easy to carpool with us. Our driver members are very happy to bring new people along. Post in the comment area below if you need a lift, include your area and a phone number. The willing driver member will contact you. As organisers, we will also monitor and help out. Please be organised and on time for collection, dont withdraw last minute. Please also don’t expect the driver to go out of their way to collect you. You might have to get to a nearby location on their route.

BRING:

• At least 2-3L drinking water.
• Lunch or snack food.
• Suitable footwear for surfaces described.
  +Sun & rain protection.
  +Bags for wet and dirty footwear & clothing.
• Appropriate clothing for the season and forecasted/possible conditions. Its exposed to wind.
• 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.
• Are you sufficiently hike fit to do this one?
• 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 hike (including downclimbs) in the time prescribed?

Looking forward to a great day outdoors.

Regards

Moa Outdoors