Waharau Regional Park Loop

Waharau Regional Park Loop is a moderately challenging hike located in Hunua Ranges Regional Park. This trail travels through dense forest and along Waharau Ridge. This loop is 7.4 miles long and gains 1,692 feet of elevation.This hike starts from the Waharau Regional Park parking area off of E Coast Rd. There are bathrooms available at the trailhead. Begin hiking southwest on a gravel road for 0.2 miles. Here, you will turn right and take Waharau Bush Path. This trail travels amongst lush forest. After 0.8 miles, you will reach a junction and turn right onto Waharau Ridge Track. You will now be hiking uphill. 0.8 miles down this trail, you will pass a spur trail to a scenic overlook. This trail is less than a tenth of a mile and is worth the added mileage. The overlook provides views of the Fifth of Thames, Coromandel Peninsula, and Hunua Ranges. There are a few other overlooks along the trail.If you choose to skip this overlook, continue on Waharau Ridge Track. You will now enjoy a brief section of downhill and flat trekking before continuing uphill. After 1.3 miles, you will reach a junction and continue on Waharau Ridge Track. This is also the highest point of the hike. Travel along the ridge for 1 mile. This section of the trail is relatively flat. You will then reach a junction. Turn left to take Puriri Grove Track.You will now be traveling downhill. Stay on this trail for 2.7 before coming to a campground with toilets. Continue hiking east. This trial will bring you back to the parking area.Hunua Ranges Regional Park is open for hiking year-round. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.