Fitness Journal October 2016

EXPLORE WAIKATO
Hakarimatas
In our month series, we check out some of the stunning
Waikato locations which are ideal for fitness training and
family outings. Take your workout routine outdoors with
the popular ‘hakas’ track.
Get in shape for summer and tackle
one of the region’s most popular
tracks among fitness buffs.
The Hakarimata range to the west of
Ngaruawahia in the north of the region
includes 1850 hectares of native forest
protected in the Hakarimata Scenic
Reserve and boasts several great walking
trails. However it is the summit track
which offers the infamous challenge of
1349 steps and rewards with an unforgettable
view.
Beginning on the Waterworks Track,
the Hakarimata summit track branches
off to the right and climbs steeply up a
well-constructed set of steps and stairs.
The steps look foreboding, but the view at
the top is well worth the effort. The tower
provides stunning 360 views out towards
the coast and across the Waikato basin
and down to Mt Ruapehu on a good day.
Having secured a following with local
fitness enthusiasts and visitors alike,
it isn’t unusual to see people timing
themselves on the track as part of their
training.
Highlights
• Along the track you will be rewarded
with babbling streams, picturesque
waterfalls and impressive views across the
surrounding countryside.
• Those looking for an even more tough
hike, keep an eye out for the sandbags
around the base of the track and carry to
the top with you – this will assist the Department
of Conservation with their track
maintenance efforts and give you an even
better workout.
• On any given day, you are likely to run
into local Ngaruawahia man Reg Hohaia,
58, who does the track nearly every day,
and has done for four years.
Trail lengths
• 2km return via same track – allow 2-3
hours as these steps are tough!
• The Hakarimata Summit Track is accessed
via the Waterworks Walk. The Waterworks
Walk starts on Brownlee Avenue,
off Hakarimata Road, approx. 1 km north
of Ngaruawahia.
Quick facts
• 1349 steps lead you from the base to the
top
• The summit is 374 metres above sea
level
• The track was completed four years
ago and has attracted more than 100,000
annual users
• The track is surrounded by 1850 hectares
of native bush
Good to know
• Track entrance via Brownlee Avenue, off
the Ngaruawahia end of Hakarimata Road
Bring plenty of water as those steps are
tiring work
• No dogs’ access on the Hakarimatas
• At the beginning of the track, veer left
onto the Waterworks Track along the
Mangarata Stream leading to an old dam.
• The track is an all-weather metalled
surface with an easy gradient, making it a
popular track for young families not keen
on the full Summit Track. •
For more information on the Hakarimatas
and other walking tracks around Hamilton
and the Waikato region visit http://www.
hamiltonwaikato.com/experiences/walkingand-hiking-trails/
Once you’ve tackled the Hakarimata Summit Track,
discover more great walks and spectacular scenery
in the Hamilton & Waikato region.
Sanctuary Mountain
Waiorongomai Valley
Marokopa Falls, Waitomo
TOP WAIKATO WALKS
Stroll along the banks of the Waikato River, wander
through ancient forests and past stunning waterfalls
or step it up with a hike to a mountain summit –
there’s something for all ages and abilities.
For more information on the Hamilton & Waikato
region’s best scenic walking trails visit:
www.hamiltonwaikato.com
22 FITNESS JOURNAL OCTOBER 2016
www.fitnessjournal.co.nz