Tuahu To Wairere

Being a point to point run, two cars will be needed; park one at Wairere Falls car park and drive 10 minutes to Tuahu Track (otherwise a drop-off and pickup will be required).

The track can be run in either direction; these instructions are from north to south.

There’s a nice flat start along gravel for about 1 km followed by a steep climb into the bush which is soon rewarded with a view of the Waikato and Killarney Lakes. There are a few obstacles to get over and around on Tuahu Track but the navigation is easy. Turn right (south) at the North/South Track junction.

It’s slow going along the ridgeline climbing narrow sections with some stairs and ladders but the view is spectacular! Motutapere Hut is a nice little stop. The track opens out into grassy areas near the Thompsons Track junction which are a little difficult to navigate (use the Topo Map app to stay on track).

After the Kauritatahi Hut Track junction the North/South Track descends toward the Katikati side of the Kaimai’s with a few river crossings which feels quite remote. There are two track exits out to Aongatete and the track is well used, open and nicely pruned in this section.

The track gradually climbs towards Wairere and is a bit overgrown with cutty grass. Turn right at the Wairere Falls junction, stop and take in the view at the top of the waterfall and then backtrack a minute to the Goodwin Road sign and head down the busy Wairere Falls track to the carpark.