Castle Rock

Castle Rock is a prominent peak in the Coromandel Range that lies 8.4 kilometres south-east of Coromandel town, north of a 532 metres (1,745 ft) peak also called Motutere and south of an unnamed 573 metres (1,880 ft) peak in the headwaters of the westward-flowing Pukewhau Stream.

The mountain is a volcanic plug made from remnants of solidified magma, the softer surrounding rock having been eroded away. Motutere means "floating island" a name bestowed by Ruamano, a descendent of Tama-te-kapua. Māori explorers of the area tended to travel along the hill ridges, so avoiding the thick vegetation in the sheltered valleys. Once dusk came they would seek shelter in order to avoid the patupaiarehe whom they believed inhabited these hills. The summit of Motutere would be eschewed after dark for this reason.

It is a very secluded run so parking has never been an issue.

13 km

17 minutes

Yes

No

Easy.

Patchy.

Thermal leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map

Take water with you and there is also the little shop at the turn around point that is happy to give you plenty of water if you need it.

Can be exposed to wind at the top on a cold day. Take extra layer if you feel the cold. On a hot day, best run earlier in the morning as it can be quite hot on the way home. But if you like the warm, you should be fine.

There can be larger stones in parts on the gravel road if they have been foresting. Do watch your footing in some places. The climb to the top of the rock is gnarly and wet and muddy in winter. This is an option off the main route.

Any of the cafes in coromandel