New Zealand > North Island > Coromandel & Waikato > Coromandel Peninsula Travel Guides > Natural Attractions

Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway

Be first to recommend
Sign In or Sign Up to
Be first to review
Sign In or Sign Up to

Best For

Sign In or Sign Up to

Contact Us

Between the towns of Paeroa and Waihi is Karangahake Gorge and Karangahake Historic Walkway. The walkway follows part of the old Paeroa to Waihi railway line, which closed in 1979, and is now managed by the Department of Conservation. Thousands of visitors are attracted to the historic Karangahake walkway each year. Karangahake Gorge is situated between the townships of Paeroa and Waihi, with access via State Highway 2.

Thousands of visitors are attracted to the historic Karangahake walkway each year. The three main trails pass by various important historical features associated with the Karangahake gold fields. Several massive stamper batteries can be explored along the length of each trail, relics of the 1890s gold rush.

There are many large pools in the Ohinemuri River, which provide good swimming in summer. Enjoy the various picnic sites and fishing for trout. The walkways are well graded and are accessible by wheelchair in parts.

PreviousNext

Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway
Owharoa Falls

Details

Further Information: There are three points of entry to the walkway, each with car parks. These are located at Karangahake (across the Ohinemuri River at the Crown Battery site); Owharoa Falls, off Waitawheta Road; and the Waikino Historic Station and Visitor Centre. The Visitor Centre has displays featuring the gold mining and timber history of the general area, as well as information on walks and other facilities in nearby parks and reserves.
Further Information: Waikino to Owharoa Falls - Length: 2km Duration: 30 minutes, one way. Departing from the Waikano car park, the trail passes under the highway, then over the Ohinemuri River on a footbridge. The trail follows the old railway beside the Ohinemuri River to the Taieri Stream - Owharoa Falls convergence, and arrives at the Victoria Battery site. Karangahake to Owharoa Falls - Length: 5km Duration: 90 minutes, one way. Departs from the lowest point at the foundation remains of the Crown Battery, beginning with a footbridge crossing the Ohinemuri River and HWY. It then leads to the 1100m long western portal of the former rail tunnel, the length of which is electrically lit. At the railways eastern portal, the trail crosses an old bridge where walkers can access the other two walkways.