Piraunui Track - lunch at Kauaeranga River

Description:
On Saturday we will walk Piraunui Track (advanced tramping track) in Coromandel Forest Park.
We start at Kopu- Hikuai Road (SH25a) from the road side car park/helipad and head down to the Kauaeranga River (unbridged) where toilets will be available at the nearby Visitor Centre.

There is ford a little down stream where it may be possible to cross the river without getting wet feet. We can stop for lunch on the near river bank or at Kahikatea Campsite or nearby. We expect the descent to Kauaeranga Valley to take around 2 hours or perhaps a bit less depending on the speed of.he group. After lunch we will head back uphill to the cars along the same “out and back” route.

The Piraunui Valley contains forested river flats, stands of regenerating kauri and unusual rock formations. We may pass a waterfall and there is a possibility of some mud as we cross the farmland near the river having crossed Shag Stream.

• 12k - 6 out, 6 back
• 280m descent
• 280m ascent
• 4 hours
• grade 3.0 (4 hours)
• terrain - advanced tramping track with a mix of benched track, roots, mud, bog & water etc. Parts of the track may be slippery and some areas you may benefit from a hiking pole but this is not essential.

There is a swimming hole at the lunch spot. The water is cold.

DOC info on the track
https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/coromandel/places/coromandel-forest-park/things-to-do/piraunui-track/

The ample sized car park doubles as a helipad.

It is essential that all cars are parked appropriately around the perimeter so as not to disrupt helipad use in the event of an emergency. Try not to overshoot the car park entry - if you do you’ll pass over the newish Taparahi Bridge.

The SH is a windy 100kmh road with limited turn around or passing opportunities. Allow a little extra time in case you get stuck behind a line of slower moving traffic on SH25a. Meet for start of hike;

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wb5JRvEJe2osyWXP9?g_st=ic

Afterwards, we will adjourn to the Red Fox, Maramarua for well earned refreshments before returning to Auckland.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/CWVoWwnLZ6TtcX178?g_st=ic

Sunrise 7.24am

Sunset 7.31pm

9.45am good time to arrive
9.55am introductions
* 10.00 Hike start
* 2.30pm hike finish
3.15pm Red Fox
4.15pm depart for Auckland
Passengers please pay drivers $30.00.
Please pay David $2 online to cover Meetup Fees or a $2 coin to the Host.

Looking forward to see you.

Team Moa Social Hiking.