The Hakarimata walkway is a one way track but can be walked as a return trip to summit from either end. It can be accessed both from Ngarawahia and Huntly with the Ngarawahia track being a little more challenging. It is all stepped and I understand there are 1349 steps!!!! Haven’t tried that side yet. Huntly side can be accessed from Parker Road, and although this too is stepped, it has some flat sections as well which are very pleasant. Allows the heart and breathing rate to slow down.

It takes about thirty minutes through beautiful native bush: Rimu, Miro, Matai, Totara, Rata, Rewarewa, Hangehange and Tawa. to reach the Kauri grove. From here another twenty minutes up steps and a clear track to reach the summit.

Beautiful views over Waikato farmland, Waikato River and Lake Waahi. Easy walk down Loop track.

This track is part of New Zealands Te Araroa Walkway stretching from
Cape Reinga to Bluff.