Hiking

Karangahake Gorge Walks. Rivers, waterfalls, and steep, forested-sided ravines, plus old railway tunnels and gold-mining sites can all be explored on the walkways in Karangahake Gorge. The trails are well maintained by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and designed to showcase the best natural and heritage features. Recommended are Windows Walk (one hour), Rail Tunnel Loop (one hour), and Karangahake Historic Walkway (three hours). Some tracks are shared with bikers on the Hauraki Rail Trail, but there’s plenty of room. Look for the large riverside car park and DOC signs part way through the gorge, opposite Moresby Road (to tiny Karangahake village). Most tracks begin across a footbridge from here. DOC camping spots, and several good cafés, are also in the area. Pick up a DOC brochure at local i-SITE Visitor Information Centres. Karangahake, Waikato, 3674. www.doc.govt.nz.