Waikato, naturally
From glow-worm caves to waterfalls and maunga, Waikato is wild about nature, writes Alan Granville.
From caves bejewelled with glowworms to majestic waterfalls and soaring mountains, Waikato is an adventure waiting to happen.
Waikato River
We have to start with the mighty Waikato, New Zealand’s longest river. At 425km the river meanders through the region offering leisure options from kayaking to multi-day cycle rides on its banks. It is also a cultural backbone and has a deep spiritual meaning. The Waikato River is taonga (treasure), and the mauri (life force) of Tainui Waka and Nga¯ ti
Tu¯ wharetoa.
Waitomo Caves
A list of Waikato’s best natural features has to include the labyrinth of caves, sinkholes and underground rivers that make up Waitomo, a must-do for any visitor. There are a host of ways to explore caves and their glow-worms, from boat rides to blackwater rafting.
Mangapohue Natural Bridge
Close to Waitomo village is a 17-metrehigh limestone arch that spans the Mangapohue Stream. The bridge is all that is left of an ancient cave system. The 700m loop is an easy stroll from the car park over boardwalks, and is pushchair and wheelchair accessible, until the staircase begins beside the arch.
If the conditions are right, those going later in the evening are treated to a free glow-worm light show.
Kawhia Hot Water Beach
The small beachside town of Kawhia harbours one of the region’s best-kept secrets. Those in the know head to Ocean Beach at low tide, with a spade handy ready to dig for an instant natural hotwater spa, to then sit back to enjoy this wild and rugged spot of coastline.
Marokopa Falls
Often called one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, the 35m Marokopa Falls is a must-visit on the way to Waitomo. The walk is an easy 20-minute return through native tawa and nı¯kau forest down to the viewing platform. One note of warning is that the lookout is permanently out of action now as it has been deemed unsafe to use.
Waire¯inga/Bridal Veil Falls
One of New Zealand’s most stunning waterfalls is also one of the country’s most accessible. From the car park, the 10-minute track through beautiful native forest to the top of the plunge falls is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies. You will be greeted with spectacular views of the 55-metre waterfall and surrounding countryside. There is another 10-minute walk down steep stairs to reach the base.
Mt Te Aroha The Blue Spring Wairere Falls
It takes effort to reach the North Island’s highest waterfall on the western side of the Kaimai-Mamaku Conservation Park near Te Aroha, but the 5km return walk is worth it. The Wairere Falls track weaves its way through nı¯kau, pu¯ riri and kohekohe, as well as over wooden bridges crossing river falls and cascades. Visitors arrive at the base of the 153m waterfall. Those with more energy can tackle the 90-minute steep climb to the top of the falls.
At 952 metres, Mt Te Aroha dominates the skyline as the highest point on the Kaimai Mamaku range. There are walking trails up to and around the summit, but a good level of fitness is required. Once at the top, trampers get stunning 360-degree views across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty, and views of Mt Taranaki and Mt Ruapehu if the weather is right.
Pirongia Forest Park
From climbing ancient volcanoes to getting up close to New Zealand’s tallest recorded native tree, Pirongia Forest Park is an outdoor lover’s dream. There are a host of walking trails where visitors can explore Mt Karioi, Mt Pirongia or the Ka¯ niwhaniwha Caves, all while strolling through ancient forests of large rimu, kahikatea, tawa, pukatea and kohekohe.
Some of the purest water in the world can be found under an hour’s drive from Hamilton. Fed from the Mamaku Plateau, the water in the Blue Spring on Te Waihou Walkway is old – it takes up to 100 years to filter through. Flowing at 42 cubic metres a minute, it runs into the Waihou River. The walkway to the spring is well-marked and is family-friendly.