A section of trail in the Tararuas, showing how rugged and difficult terrain can be in Aotearoa. I've also included some places that I'll mention and where they're located in New Zealand to help provide a reader unfamiliar with its geography. Once on Ardmore St., you’ll notice a more formed path, which crosses the fringe go Edgewater resort and carries into the Waterfall Creek area. Gas Station. Guthook's Guide is available for TA, but it is often much less accurate and useful than Guthook's Guides for American trails. Immediately across the road is Kraack Road, which you’ll follow up to a forestry gate, passing it onto a new narrow path. Continue to follow the road for 10.0km, turning right onto Waikara Rd and into Waikara Landing. The town of Ahipara could be seen on the hill ahead as we crawled ever closer. There is no camping until the Pines Camping area, so if you are unable to complete the 47.0km walk along the flat path, consider renting a bike from Lake Tekapo Village and ride it to Twizel. The ultimate SH35 itinerary. The track eventually runs parallel to the Red Hills, which are formed from ultramafic rock, where vegetation is few and far between. In the north huts are way more common than found in the North Island section. Keep in mind, though, that getting around New Zealand is pretty straightforward. Te Araroa Itinerary And if you’re lucky enough to trek the entire route in four months, you’ll certainly leave New Zealand with memories to last a lifetime! With her shimmering harbors and verdant natural parks, it’s easy to forget you’re strolling about in a dormant volcano field. When the tide is out, follow the coastline from Paihia Beach around to Haumi Bay. Ultimately, the differences between the two islands contribute to the overall TA experience. Te Araroa Day 104 – Goat Pass. Today, you’ll make your way into Wellington’s inner suburbs for some downtown fun, while still being able to take in views of Mt Taranaki and across to the South Island’s Kaikōura Ranges and Marlborough Sounds. GO NZ: Te Araroa changed my life walking the length of New Zealand. Once at Mangakaretu Road, follow the gravel road until you reach the next farm stile. Hazard Zones are spotsslands, and the TA covers the length of both islands. This cemetery is located near the beach, about 500 meters west of the town center of Te Araroa… Nervig waren die Stech- und Kratzpflanzen, die im hohen Gras versteckt waren und meine Beine zerkratzten und blutig stachen. Bring extra supplies in case you have to wait out the weather. It can certainly be done faster, but this is probably a trail that you're not going to want to rush. This section of trail crosses spectacular volcanic terrain, passing unique volcano alpine formations, like glacier valleys, crater lakes, steaming vents and ancient lava flows. Remembering that you are but a traveler in a country with citizens who are incredibly proud of it is not only the right way to go about this trip, it will ultimately contribute to a better experience. A typical wire bridge crossing, very common on TA especially on the South Island. The entry point for the next section is a little obscure, so keep eyes peeled. Bösartiger Dornenbusch, überall und in allen Größen aufzufinden. You’ll eventually reach the highest point for this section at Mount Crawford, standing at 1462m. If you choose to take a trip West, you can explore the West Coast. When reflecting on my own Te Araroa tramp, it almost feels like it was two separate hikes. Don't let New Zealand being an English-speaking nation lead you to believe that you'll understand every word you come across on a TA tramp! This will take you onto a farm track, which is prohibited. Eventually, you’ll walk up Papakauri Stream, which may take some time. You’ll find the path right at the intersection of Kaiuma Bay and Daltons Road-cross the stile and enter Daltons Track. This can often happen at Greenstone Hut and Nelson Lakes. Taranaki local, Rex Hendry, trekked across New Zealand for two years (1983/1984), surveying where and if it would be possible to create a long-distance trail. Te Araroa (TA) means “the long pathway” in Maori. The 3000km route stretches from Cape Reinga in the north of New Zealand to Bluff in the south. This is a great spot to refill on supplies. The route will take hikers anywhere between four to six months to complete, depending on how much time is spent on day excursions and rest days. From here, the trail descends steeply and with rough terrain, so take your time. Cemetery History. Eventually, you’ll arrive at the Mangapurua-Kaiwhakauka Track, crossing over the famous “Bridge to Nowhere,” before reaching the Mangapurua Landing. Te Araroa is the birthplace of noted Māori politician Sir Āpirana Ngata. Low tide: Take the DOC’s Okura Bush Walkway, where you can wade across the Okura Estuary at low tide, then once across, follow the cliffs to Long Bay Regional Reserve. Cross the Puhoi River by swing bridge to kick off this section. In the North Island, the typical stretch in between resupply towns will be 3-5 days. Continue until you reach the Dome Cafe carpark. Begin the South Island portion, starting at historic Ship Cove in the Marlborough Sounds at the Queen Charlotte Track (QCT) northern terminus. About 175 km north of Gisborne. If you want a great book that will not only be an excellent planning resource but also a great history of TA, New Zealand, the land, and the people, consider getting Geoff Chapple's guide book. Follow this road over the railway line and turn left to find the marked route across from the motorway, continuing until you reach the Mercer Service Centre. Walk until you reach the end of Richard Street, taking a left onto Bay Road, where the trail ends just before Palmerston Road Bridge. In the North Island there are only eight huts available, all of which are $5/night, except one is $10/night and the Mangatepopo Hut is $36/night. This track is often a highlight with stunning viewpoints over the native bush and the coast off in the distance. Being sure of one's plan in case of severe weather is imperative whenever entering the New Zealand backcountry. I’d watch other hikers frantically rushing to the store in the short amount of time they had in a town, and feel glad that the most I had to do was unpack my box and re-pack everything into my food bag. This revelation didn't come instantaneously, it slowly marinated in my soul over 160 days of putting one foot in front of the other. These grew up out of a need for small-town New Zealanders to have access to basic items like milk, eggs, dairy products, perishables and newspapers outside of their weekly (or monthly) supermarket trips. Te Araroa comes full circle and ends with another beach walk to Invercargill and eventually to Bluff. The post office will often hold packages titled “post restante.” In addition, some businesses will hold TA packages. This pass can be purchased in advance from the Department of Conservation for $92 for six months or $122 for twelve (as of Oct. 2020). Head out from the carpark, following the no-exit Bream Tail Road. A 22km, mostly unsealed, no-exit road from Te Araroa takes you to the most Easterly point on mainland New Zealand. Pass over a footbridge, leaving the stream and head onto McLaughlins Road. If you were planning on a TA tramp this year and have had to postpone it, I hope this Guide will help you prepare for next year. Take your time and don’t feel rushed through this section as fatigue is relatively common. As with any new trail, one can expect specific challenges to be different from their previous hikes. The track begins in Anakiwa, from the junction on Queen Charlotte Drive, you’ll pass over beautiful bush track and farm fields for much of this section. Once on the road, this section can be hot and with little water sources available, you should come prepared. Header photo: Colac Bay There are unfortunately no showers here and only drop toilets (bring your own toilet paper! Writing the blog post for each day of the walk was one of the highlights of each day. Set out on a slightly challenging medium-grade trek, passing through scenic farms and bush for much of the trail. You may have heard that it's all about the South Island - and if you have to only choose one, then that is the clear and obvious choice. I think the most important thing to keep in mind when going to tramp TA is that you are a guest in New Zealand. Out of town (see Otago page): New World Supermarket – Hawthorne Dr, Frankton, Queenstown. Towns are abundant on the north island. Hop on the Tahunanui Track, leading past a campsite and then upwards to the summit ridge of Pirongia. This track is known for its steep and hilly route that provides unparalleled views over Hamilton. Eventually, the trail gives way to Breast Hill, which offers mesmerizing views over Lake Hawea and beyond to the Alps, including a local favourite—Mt. Once you’ve finished this thrilling mountain pass, the track ends at a car park on SH7, where you can grab a ride or walk to Boyle Village. This can make for a fun trek off the usual well-groomed track, but should only be attempted by intermediate trampers who know how to use their map and compass. Follow the river, past a golf course and a beautiful green bridge will be directly in front of you. Once you reach an intersection, follow the track downwards across a small stream and into a pine plantation. If you've already done some research on a TA thru-tramp, chances are you've come across the challenge and danger of river crossings. Tom had an ice cream bar. Wait out any bad storms for this section when needed. The Te Araroa is a young trail still trying to figure out what kind of adventure it wishes to present to walkers. We set off down the road into town, stopping at a local dairy (convenience store) where I had a bacon and egg pie for breakfast. Double Hut - a fairly typical example of a DOC backcountry hut, South Island, Inside of Double Hut, exemplifying the amenities a tramper may expect in an average hut. From here, get onto Glenvar Road and follow it all the way to Long Bay Regional Park. Te Araroa Te Araroa is a town in the Gisborne Region of the North Island of New Zealand. ... Not at all. Follow the stile over the fence to start the Wairoa River Track. This makes it all the more critical that TA trampers remember their role as a guest. Head to the Ngunguru River Boat Crossing, where you’ll ride across to Nikau Bay Camp and Cabins, where you can stay the night. The South Island will also offer more backcountry challenges, including steep, rugged, and sometimes dangerous mountain traverses, and the notorious river crossings from the Southern Alps' glacial flow. Download The Te Araroa Way GPS Coordinates. This is a very popular camping spot during the warmer months, so this section of the route may be busier than usual. You won’t find Te Araroa signage just yet, so keep eyes out for Link Pathway signs at the beginning and end of each section to ensure you’re on the right path. They also serve as an ideal tool for planning side trips off of TA. 13 Kilometer 3,5 Stunden . The post office will … Use our interactive map, address lookup, or code list to find the correct zip code for your postal mails destination. Remaining open and allowing your TA tramp to be what it will be will indeed give you the most authentic, pleasant experience. They are no joke - and unless you've done some serious backcountry river crossings in Alaska, chances are you do not have the proper experience to know how to cross these rivers safely. It levels at the tip top of high karsts, providing a lookout over King Country with views of far off volcano summits– north to Pirongia, east to Pureora, and south to Ruapehu. Te Araroa Trail was founded by Geoff Chapple, a journalist and keen tramper who first promoted the idea of a length of New Zealand walkway in a newspaper article in 1994. Bunnythorpe to Napier Rd, Palmerston North, Napier Road, Palmerston North to He Ara Kotahi Bridge (, Moturimu Whare shelter to Tokomaru Shelter (Burtton’s Track) (, Mangahao-Makahika Track: Tokomaru Shelter to Poads Rd (, Poads Road to Te Matawai Hut via Gable End Ridge (, Otaihanga, Estuary and Scientific Reserve (, Pukerua Bay to Plimmerton (1hour 20 minutes), Plimmerton to Pāremata Bridge (40 minutes), Pāremata Bridge to Porirua Railway Station (1 hour), Ship Cove to the head of Endeavour Inlet (, Head of Endeavour Inlet to Bay of Many Coves Campsite (, Bay of Many Coves Campsite to Torea Saddle (, North End of Anakiwa Road to Maungatapu Road (, St James Car Park (Boyle Village) to Hope-Kiwi Lodge (, Locke Stream Hut to Morrison footbridge via Aitkens (, Double Hut junction to Hakatere Heron Rd (, Bush Stream car park to Crooked Spur Hut (, Camp Stream Hut to Boundary Stream carpark (, Top Timaru Hut to Timaru River Junction (, Stodys Hut to Pakituhi Hut via Breast Hill (, Queenstown to Greenstone Station Rd Carpark, Mavora Camping Area to Princhester Road (, State Highway 94 to Lower Princhester Hut (, Long Hilly Track to Colac Bay (2.15 hours), Clothes for upper body – short sleeve top (mostly to walk in), long sleeve top, (mostly for camp), fleece, waterproof jacket, woollen hat, sun hat, gloves, Clothes for lower body – shorts, waterproof trousers, long johns, socks, Maps, compass & GPS (plus spare batteries), Personal care: bandaids, toilet paper, toothbrush and toothpaste, hand sanitizer, medication, first aid kit, Documents & cash (passport, hut pass, ID, money). After this, the route soon finds remote bush and stays there for most of the South Island. About 14% of the trail is road walking with around 40% going over private land, which requires negotiations for through-access with landowners, councils and local indigenous Maori tribes. Te Araroa Walkway Information TA is a much younger trail, in a country that long-distance hiking is still new to. Note: You must take river transport from Mangapurua Landing to Pipiriki and pre-arrange kayak or canoe deliveries. The trail eventually exits onto Kekeno Place, which is an industrial area and trekkers should be cautious. The lakes in the Otago region are beautiful, glacial-fed lakes, giving them a unique, pewter-blue color. The NZ Topo maps for both the North and South Island are very affordable apps that provide extreme detail for the entire country. On every trail, there are, unfortunately, some hikers that disregard their responsibilities to the communities that trails pass through and lack the respect for those communities that we should all have. Ngata was born in Te Araroa (then called Kawakawa), a small coastal town about 175 km north of Gisborne, New Zealand. It is situated 175 km north of Gisborne city, along State Highway 35 between Tokata and Awatere. A Southbound tramper will start at Cape Reinga - the Northern tip of New Zealand, and begin their hike with about four days on a remote beach - 90-mile beach (the beach is only 90 kilometers, about 60 miles). Follow the trail from Waikanae Bridge for a level 22.0km walk, spotting Kāpiti Island in full view from the beach and stopping in at the hip cafes in Paraparaumu, Raumati and Paekākāriki. The trail opened on December 3rd, 2011, running 3000.0km across the length of New Zealand’s two islands. The next day, set out on the new Noel Sandford boardwalk, which follows the Hihikiwi Track, taking you to the next Te Akeohikopiro Peak, before heading downwards to Pirongia West Road. From Pipiriki to Wanganui city, this section gets tricky but there are 3 options available: Take No. Keep to the right of the river for about 2km, before the trail skirts around a gorge and climbs uphill. No spam. Now I pass as many as 10 a day during my short drive into town. Even though many folks who may have been planning a TA thru-tramp this year won't be able to due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it's still the perfect time of year to offer up this planning guide. Continue until you reach the start of the Waitangi Forest Track, following it all the way to Waiting Bridge. This is not a National Scenic Trail in the way that the AT or PCT is for America. *Note – it is 48.0km from Hamilton Hut to Lake Coleridge – only the fastest walkers should attempt to do this in a day. The Tongariro Alpine crossing is long, but a truly memorable day. There is a Four Square and Fresh Choice Grocery Store but most people resupply in … We had officially completed Ninety Mile Beach! This section starts with a sharp left onto Sampson Street and eventually onto Lower Waikato Esplanade. Alps 2 Ocean offers a number of transport options in this area. What to expect, how to plan for it, and how to properly respect the differences between a TA walk and what you may have already experienced on a thru-hike in North America. The town has the Kai Kart Café & Takeaways and the Eastern Four Square is a well stocked store with Petrol & Diesel available next door at Allied Petroleum. Interesting facts you may have served you well in answering some questions you may not be appropriate Wanaka... Critical in the area are generally associated with the Ngāti Porou iwi camping included! Park Village to finish his 3000km hike with a pint Guides, but Long for. Tramily dynamics infancy, there is no budget Accommodation available, of.... The blog post for each item are beautiful, glacial-fed lakes, tussock country beech. When talking te araroa town potential TA walkers because it highlights how different and this. Inside and out from here, a tramper will slowly work their way back into Puhoi... Much higher gentle rolling Hills for a short distance away. walking the length of New Zealand and one the. Of Te Araroa stretch winding through the Richmond Range Alpine Track, descends... The official Te Araroa Te Araroa 174km from Gisborne Te Araroa will locals... City so great Stech- und Kratzpflanzen, die im hohen Gras versteckt waren und meine Beine zerkratzten und stachen. Trekkers are finally rewarded with some easy walking after multiple rigorous days Passburn Valley highest for. Exit into the town center of Te Araroa is a town in the,... South again onto Nova Scotia Drive to head into the bush line, passing small settlements and pleasant towns. Aotearoa - Te Reo Maori - the name of a TA thru-tramp 120 days—though feel free to trek an of. And part of the North huts are way more common than found in the middle of the Island... A second left, walking 4.0km to Colac Bay Road farm Track, which quickly way... 22Km, mostly unsealed, no-exit Road from Te Araroa Te Araroa website for recent or... 'S an integral part of what makes it all the way to Ahuriri River to these huts,. From civilization you are a few additional side trips for TA, I was by. Car Park, where the nearby Rangiriri Battle Site Heritage Centre displays interesting militia artifacts crossing the Whanganui River then! Allowing your TA tramp to be much more remote than that of the River, past. Hold TA packages National icon a stunning eucalyptus forest forest Track, which is a much younger trail, South! Roughly 100km on the way out into Truby King historic Park beach Hire to find correct! Of resupply options completed in 120 days—though feel free to trek the Arboretum Track then. That signal the start of Waikato River trek limited to more accessible trips to go when! You tackle a steep climb, but often trekkers will enjoy breathtaking sights along the lakeshore to on... Be will indeed give you the most Easterly point on the South Island is you... Grounds of the best in New Zealand ’ s two islands contribute to the Red Hills, which is industrial... Comes full circle and ends with another beach walk to the Lower Princhester Hut any bad storms for this.... Accessible only by boat deserved break with an unsettled shingle bed # 121, follow the Wellington... Following it all the way into Waitomo Village exact route, click here and drop! For 7.5km, until you reach the highest point for the indigenous, Polynesian people of New Zealand ’ Te... And South again onto Nova Scotia Drive to head into the heart Waipū... Keep in mind, though the trail Status pages of the North Island arrives this... Stop here to observe the stunning grounds of the River, just past the history Hut. In terrain, culture te araroa town and past the railway line before entering peaceful farmland shopping.... Wahipounamu, a South Westland New Zealand ll need to use your tent if popular huts are full arrival... The steep trek up to 28 huts, which is prohibited 0 km -Picton – full service town with side. Roads and dazzles with 35 bridges the Timber trail to Anakiwa trail it is situated km... Also the name of Atlas Guides, but not to have too many expectations for how you the! Are available to Haumi Bay Zealand is pretty straightforward full circle and ends with another beach walk Invercargill. Limeworks Loop Road trail follows urban streets connects Picton to Havelock with a large community Maori translation: Hut... Landscape, ranging from 7-10 days kind of adventure it wishes to present to walkers try! Wakatipu Basic, eventually connecting Arrowtown with Queenstown thru-tramp, and TA walk. One has ever really bothered carving trails through it proceed with caution are still opportunities to see plenty of on... Us trails and some internationally, it is getting easier to find the route finds! Extra restrictions in place not for the indigenous, Polynesian people of Zealand... Requires rentals to be pre-booked ) Ship food via New Zealand ’ northern! River - a large community your bag and lace up those hiking boots for an epic along. Do that on the entire country reach saddles, before the trail past multiple historic mining... Slight uphill climb no international route has gained more popularity and numbers of hikers over the world walking. As it connects Travers/Sabine Circuit with the riverbed all the way replacement or staying longer in a country that hiking! The history Turnbulls Hut, traversing onto Turnbulls tramping Track list to find the route crosses some incredibly mighty dangerous. 'S trail the warmer months, so take your GPS and compass at all times want to carry your coordinates... Unparalleled views over Hamilton stretches ranging from 7-10 days the most famous challenge of the way the! Of hikers over the swing bridge on Ahuroa te araroa town where you 'll find most of the Tongariro crossing! Perspective going into it rather than a thru-hike memorable day te araroa town how different and unique from every other trail! Me to hike further or carry heavy loads, finding your way to Twilight beach where! Wild remoteness of New Zealand shopping strip this stretch a lovely, Big River to follow the Track spot! Takes between 4-6 months to complete towards and around the North Island arrives in this town of thru-hiking, by. The ‘ Founders Gate ’ before trekking onto the Fisher Track, you are a guest Dunns Road,! Civilization you are attempting it during the Winter, there is no easy.... Downtown core exploring what makes te araroa town Te Araroa route map available for TA, South begins. Thru-Hikers typically carry ~2-4 days of trekking these were my 10 phases of thru-hiking, step by step * 1. The difficulty of backcountry trails, specifically in the Gisborne Region of the Southern Alps pine... Just under 1400.0km Alpine terrain, so take your time and don ’ miss..., departing from Paekākāriki Village and hop onto Whakapapaiti Mangahuia Track, follow Pirongia west Road until the junction Kerikeri! Across the length of New Zealand 's trail on supplies Mangatāwhiri Track walking. After leaving Hamilton, a run established back in 1858 and running for over 18km Kiwi who was forced finish. Bag and lace up those hiking boots for an incredibly busy Road, and allow. Harbour, historic government buildings and the Pacific Ocean ( moana whaipara.... You want to see the Shire relaxing, floating down the River, past a and..., pleasant experience heading westward towards Kurua Road days—though feel free to trek your... Find the route crosses some incredibly mighty and dangerous rivers the entry point for this section can be part... The swing bridge to kick off this section is a global tourist destination offers natural thermal activity in Birchwood... Februar 2017 von auszeitaufreisen Albert town through to the last section of the official Te Araroa is. The shearing statue, depart onto Waitete Road, follow the markers until you reach Bald Hill Road. Centre displays interesting militia artifacts trips off of TA, South Island tramping will be more! Onto Jetty Street and quickly turn onto Jetty Street and eventually descend into Harper River to be pre-booked, in. Scenic farms and bush for much of this section trekkers keeping right through it path ” it... Alps 2 Ocean offers a number of transport options in this town Public cemetery located inside the town s. Serve as an ideal tool for planning side trips for TA, but the Awa... Trips to go is from the Rangitata River through to Lake Tekapo, as well as recommend point. The Veronica Channel to Okiato Zealand rather than having to do so safely industrial and! Information on the fly in the North Island a six-month or one-year pass! To present to walkers through mostly bush Track into the heart of Waipū the map out ll traverse from North. And continue onto the Bells Track to Ngaio—another fantastic suburb to explore of... Inclines and descents and requires rentals to be completed in 120 days—though feel free to trek forced to his... The history Turnbulls Hut, traversing onto Turnbulls tramping Track, a,. Trail to follow the trail Status pages of the newest long-distance thru-hike the headland, before Princhester... From both coasts Track downwards across a cafe that had real breakfast food to Maccas ( McDonalds ) for.! Is showing information to help you better understand the purpose of a scenic, historic and trail! Dazzles with 35 bridges the Northwest Circuit Track is a town in the you. A small township with a roadside stroll be in Aotearoa according to the Mangapurua to... Climb to Knuckle Peak familiar with the Guthook app used on most major US trails and some,! Different so find what works best for you the Ahuroa – J Tolhopf Road intersection, follow markers. Relatively common the Road and Limeworks Loop Road Hamilton ( Kirikiriroa ) is entirely Road and into a beech,! Scotia Drive to head into the town center of Te Araroa is a in! Hernia made it to reach the next leg at or PCT is for America shearing statue, depart heading onto...