Great Lake Trail - Waihaha Section

The track initially follows a stream

Transport and parking:

Parking is remote but quite safe, I did this as a point to point run as a group. We got dropped off at the start point after leaving vehicles in Kinloch and then at the finish used a water taxi to get back to our cars. The finish point is only accessible by water taxi - or you could run back out!

Distance from Taupo:

53 km

Driving time from Taupo:

37 minutes

Dog friendly:

Unknown

Landowner permission required:

No

Navigation Rating:

Easy.

Navigation Tips:

Follow the track

Cellphone Coverage:

Patchy.

Suggested Gear List:

Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Map.

Availability of Water:

Carry your own water

Seasonality Issues:

The final 5km has patches of mud. Boardwalks/bridges are common towards the end which would be very slippery when wet. Make sure you carry sufficient water and warm clothes as you are isolated and the temperatures can drop and be very low.

Hazards:

In the past there have been some slips on the track however, a maintenance crew regularly maintains the condition and water taxi staff would have update information.