New Zealand — Ngaruawahia
Ascend the Hakarimata Summit Track, a moderate 8km walk in New Zealand's Waikato region. This steep, rewarding route winds through dense native forest, offering stunning panoramas of the Waikato River and distant ranges. Allow 3-4 hours for this popular, historic trail.
Distance: 8.0 km
Elevation Gain: 623 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3-4 hours
The Hakarimata Summit Track is a rewarding day walk located in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. This relatively short but steep trail offers a challenging climb to the summit of the Hakarimata Range, providing panoramic views over the surrounding landscape, including the Waikato River, Ngaruawahia, and the distant Kaimai and Pirongia ranges. Known for its dense native forest, historical significance, and the iconic Hakarimata Rail Trail, this track is a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking a vigorous outdoor experience close to urban centres.
The Hakarimata Summit Track is a testament to the power of elevation gain over a short distance. While the total length of the loop is only 8.0 kilometres, the ascent of 623 metres means that much of the walk is a sustained, steep climb. This challenging gradient ensures that even experienced walkers will feel the burn in their legs and lungs, making it a fantastic workout. The trail winds through beautiful native bush, offering a welcome respite from the open farmland and urban areas below. The air is fresh, and the sounds of the forest provide a natural soundtrack to your ascent.
The track is well-maintained, with a combination of formed paths, wooden steps, and boardwalks in wetter sections. As you climb, the vegetation changes, with larger trees giving way to more sub-alpine flora closer to the summit. The views that unfold as you gain altitude are a significant reward for the effort. From the summit, on a clear day, you can see for miles. The Waikato River snakes its way through the landscape, Ngaruawahia town is spread out below, and on a good day, the Kaimai Range to the east and Mount Pirongia to the west are visible. The summit itself is marked by a trig station, a perfect spot for photos and to soak in the expansive vistas.
A notable feature of the Hakarimata Range is the Hakarimata Rail Trail, a section of the old railway line that once ran through the area. While not part of the main summit track, it offers a flatter, more accessible walking option and a glimpse into the region's industrial past. The combination of challenging terrain, native bush, historical elements, and stunning views makes the Hakarimata Summit Track a highly recommended day walk for those looking for a substantial challenge and rewarding scenery.
The Hakarimata Range holds significant cultural and historical importance for the local iwi, particularly Waikato-Tainui. The name "Hakarimata" itself is derived from Māori language, with various interpretations suggesting connections to the land and its features. For centuries, Māori have used these lands for sustenance, shelter, and as strategic vantage points. The range's prominent position overlooking the Waikato River made it a significant area for observation and defence.
In more recent history, the Hakarimata Range played a role in the development of the region. The construction of the Hakarimata Rail Trail, which forms part of the walking network, dates back to the early 20th century. This railway line was crucial for transporting goods and materials, connecting communities and facilitating the growth of industries in the Waikato. The remnants of this railway, including cuttings and embankments, are still visible and offer a tangible link to the area's past.
The Hakarimata Summit Track itself, while not a historic Māori trail in the same vein as some of New Zealand's Great Walks, represents a modern effort to provide public access to the natural beauty and panoramic views of the range. The development and maintenance of the track by local authorities and volunteer groups ensure that this significant landscape remains accessible for recreation and appreciation, preserving its natural and historical heritage for future generations.
The Hakarimata Summit Track is accessible and enjoyable year-round, but the experience can vary significantly with the seasons.
Spring (September–November): This is a beautiful time to visit. The native bush comes alive with new growth, and the forest floor may be dotted with early wildflowers. The weather is generally mild, though occasional rain showers are common. Sandflies can start to become noticeable as temperatures rise.
Summer (December–February): Summer offers the warmest temperatures, making it ideal for a challenging climb. However, it can also be the busiest season, and the track can be exposed in sections, so sun protection is essential. Higher temperatures can increase the prevalence of sandflies, especially in shaded or damp areas. Afternoon thunderstorms are also a possibility, so it's wise to start your walk early.
Autumn (March–May): Autumn is often considered one of the best times to walk the Hakarimata Summit Track. The weather is typically stable and cooler, making the steep climb more comfortable. The foliage may begin to change colour, adding a different kind of beauty to the forest. Sandfly activity usually decreases significantly.
Winter (June–August): Winter can bring cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. The track can become muddy and slippery, especially on the steeper sections and wooden steps. However, on clear winter days, the views from the summit can be spectacular, with crisp air and often dramatic cloud formations. Frost is possible at higher elevations, and while snow is rare at the summit, it can occur during particularly cold snaps. Waterproof gear is essential during winter months.
Weather Considerations: Regardless of the season, the weather in the Hakarimata Range can change rapidly. It is crucial to check the local weather forecast before you go and be prepared for all conditions, including rain, wind, and cooler temperatures, especially at the summit. The steepness of the track means that even on a warm day, you can generate significant body heat, but the summit can be exposed and cooler.
Early Morning (Approx. 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Arrival and Preparation
Morning (Approx. 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Ascent to the Summit
Midday (Approx. 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Summit Experience
Afternoon (Approx. 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Descent and Return
Alternative Access (Brownlee Avenue, Huntly):
The Hakarimata Summit Track is a day walk, meaning no overnight accommodation is required. However, thorough preparation is still essential due to the track's challenging nature and the potential for rapidly changing weather conditions. The closest town for amenities and accommodation is Ngaruawahia, which is a short drive from the main trailhead. Larger centres like Hamilton are also within easy reach, offering a wider range of services.
Fitness: The track is rated as moderate to hard due to its steepness. A good level of cardiovascular fitness and leg strength is recommended. If you are not accustomed to steep climbs, consider building up your fitness beforehand. The 623 metres of elevation gain over a relatively short distance means sustained effort is required.
Logistics: The main access is via Hakarimata Road, which is well-signposted from State Highway 1. There is a car park at the base of the track. An alternative access point is from Brownlee Avenue in Huntly. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for potentially unsealed or gravel access roads, although the main car park is generally well-maintained.
Base Town/City Information:
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation.
No permits are required to walk the Hakarimata Summit Track. It is a public access area managed by the local council or Department of Conservation, and no entry fees or booking systems are in place for day walkers.
However, it is always advisable to check for any temporary track closures or alerts before your visit. These can be due to maintenance, weather events, or other safety concerns. Information is usually available through the local council's website or by contacting their parks and recreation department.
Important Considerations:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Hakarimata Summit Track (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Hakarimata Summit Track, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The Hakarimata Range and its surroundings offer several other activities for visitors:
Pre-Departure Checks:
Track Hazards:
General Safety Advice:
Hakarimata Summit Trig: The highest point of the track, marked by a trig station. This is the prime location for panoramic views. Take time to circumnavigate the summit area to appreciate the 360-degree vistas. On a clear day, you can see the Kaimai Range to the east, Mount Pirongia to the west, the Waikato River, and the towns of Ngaruawahia and Huntly.
Hakarimata Rail Trail: While not directly on the summit track, the historic Hakarimata Rail Trail is a significant point of interest in the range. This relatively flat track follows the path of the old railway line and offers a different perspective on the area's history and landscape. It can be accessed from various points, including near the main Hakarimata Road trailhead, and provides a gentler walking experience.
Native Bush and Flora: The track passes through beautiful native bush, including mature trees like tawa, rewarewa, and mahoe. Keep an eye out for the diverse undergrowth of ferns, mosses, and smaller shrubs. The changing vegetation as you ascend provides a natural indicator of elevation and microclimate.
Waikato River Views: As you climb, intermittent views of the Waikato River become visible. These become more expansive as you gain altitude, offering a sense of the river's importance to the region's geography and history.
Historical Remnants: Along the broader Hakarimata Range network, you may find remnants of past human activity, including old cuttings and embankments from the railway line. These serve as reminders of the area's development and the efforts to traverse this challenging terrain.
The Hakarimata Summit Track, like all natural areas, benefits greatly from visitors adhering to Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines help preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Hakarimata Range for everyone to enjoy.
Your responsibility as a walker:
By following these principles, you help ensure that the Hakarimata Summit Track remains a pristine and enjoyable destination for generations to come.
