Marios Gavalas
Author And Researcher
I'm Marios, delivering the best of Aotearoa's nature walks to your device.
I've personally walked hundreds of New Zealand's tracks and spent months in libraries uncovering interesting information on New Zealand/Aotearoa. And you'll find a slice of that research on this page - enjoy!
4 km return | 3 hours return (generous)
The Hakarimata Reserve now covers over 1800 hectares with kauri, rimu and tawa in the forest. This is the highest viewpoint around and beest done early or late, when the Waikato River glistens like a silver thread.
There is a parking area at Brownlee Avenue, where there are also toilets.
Follow the Water Works Walk and just before the dam head right.
There now begins the journey of a 1000 steps - more in fact - 1349 according to the DoC brochure. The steady climb is punctuated with occasional inspirational quotes. For example “sweat is just fat crying”.
Occasional peeps out are not as impressive as the summit. At 374m, it is not high, but commands extensive views over the Waikato to Maungatautari.
The name Hakarimata was conferred when a huge feast was prepared for guests ‘hakari kai mata’.
The tomokanga was unveiled in 2016 as a joint venture between DoC, Waikato District Council, Ngaruawahia Community Board and Waikato Tainui. It was carved by Master Carver Inia Te Wiata and depicts important tribal stories and histories.
Feature | Value | Info |
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Organisation |
DOC WaikatoCentral government organisation |
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Location |
North Island ▷ Waikato ▷ Huntly |
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Categories |
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Directions To Coordinates |
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Coordinates |