Titirangi - Arataki

Plenty of native forest and native bird habitats throughout. Arataki is the gateway to the Hilary Trail and the Waitakere Range; this course skirts the lower Nihotipu Dam.

Transport and parking:

An easy walk (or jog) from Titirangi village, where there is off-and-on- street parking available. The 195 bus from Britomart also runs to Titirangi.

Distance from Huia:

14 km

Driving time from Huia:

18 minutes

Dog friendly:

Unknown

Landowner permission required:

No

Navigation Rating:

Easy.

Navigation Tips:

This is a very simple course to navigate, it's signposted the whole way.

Cellphone Coverage:

Perfect throughout.

Suggested Gear List:

Windproof jacket, Whistle, First aid kit, Cellphone, Map

Availability of Water:

None that I'm aware of until Arataki, where there are taps.

Seasonality Issues:

The bush can be very dry during summer, and be wary of wasps. Sections of Slip Track, in particular, can be very muddy following rain. It's a clay track with little metal cover.

Hazards:

Slippery steps on the ascent to Arataki can be a hazard, and be mindful of the railway line running through the bush at the top of Slip Track as it is in (limited) use. You are not permitted to run along the train line.

Arataki Visitors Centre
Scenic Drive, Oratia
http://regionalparks.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/aratakivisitorcentre
A cafe on site, and a caravan next door that makes fantastic ice creams! And of course, it's right at the end of this course.

iTi
421 Titirangi Rd
http://www.weareiti.co.nz/
Good food and drinks in a lovely spot in the middle of Titirangi village

Stripe Cafe
521 Sth Titirangi Rd
http://www.stripecafe.co.nz
Great food and coffee, and a very kid-friendly environment. Perfect for post-run brunch.