Programme Overview
The Karakariki Scenic Reserve was originally set aside as a water conservation reserve. At one time the forest was dominated by kauri but this was milled out in the early 1900s.
Track overview:
Walking and tramping: 20 and 45 mins one way - Advanced tramping track.
Seasonal restrictions: This walkway is closed every year from 01 August to 30 September for farm management purposes.
Description:
- Carpark to waterfall: 20 mins one way
- Waterfall to fenceline: 45 mins one way
The first part of the track starts and ends with suspension bridges. After the first bridge head to the left and follow the stream through a small bush remnant and open grassy areas.
After the second bridge it doesn't take long to reach the small waterfall - a good spot for a family picnic and paddle in the stream (cross the ford on true right of the stream for a nice picnic spot).
You can explore upstream beyond the waterfall and look for fossils in the rocks and water.
On the true left, beyond the second suspension bridge and five minutes further along the track, you can cross the unbridged stream and follow a steep climb up to a bush-covered ridge, The track ends at the boundary fence - there is no view from this point; do not climb the fence.
A good track for children (though be aware it can be muddy, especially in winter), picnicking and looking for fossils in the stream below the waterfall. It is a good track for summer walking.
Getting there:
Turn off the Hamilton/Raglan Highway (SH 23) into Karakariki Road, then turn left onto Karakariki Valley Road to the car park at the road end.