Waitawheta River Walk - Saturday 14th May, 2022
The Crown Track and Windows Walk Track are closed during the whole of May for track maintenance, so we'll be starting our walk at Dickey Flat and walking upstream from there. For those wishing to join us for this fantastic river and forest experience next Saturday, 14th May, here are the details . . .
MEET at Dickey Flat DoC Campground at 10:30 a.m. (The day will have warmed up enough by then)
To get to Dickey Flat, head to the Karangahake Gorge to Waitawheta Road, about 800 meters North of the Waikino Hotel. Cross the one-lane bridge (you have right-of-way) and go about 1-1/2 Km to Kennedy Road on the right, then Dickey Flat Road on the right. Go to the end of the road.
The last part of Dickey Flat Road is rough gravel, so if you'd prefer not to take your car over that road, you can park at the Victoria Battery Carpark just across the Waitawheta Road one-way-bridge on the left and I can give you a ride from there at 10:15 a.m. Please COMMENT BELOW if you'd like that option.
This part of the North South Track is well formed and quite easy going, so will suit any fitness level so long as you can walk a reasonable distance. There is no hurry! It follows the East Bank of the Waitawheta River, undulating from river level to no more than about 60 feet above in 2 or 3 places, but mostly reasonably level. The track itself is uneven with stones and tree-roots in places, and well constructed metalled track and boardwalks in other spots.
After about 45 - 50 minutes we'll reach the river crossing. Here, you'll get your feet wet! The river is pebbles and larger smooth rocks so you can cross in bare feet, or you might find it more comfortable in crocs or dive boots. Once over the river, we'll carry on for another 30 minutes or so to a lunch spot before returning. There are several excellent swimming spots along the way if anyone is keen!
Expect to be back at Dickey Flat by around 2:30 p.m.
What to bring . . .
Some lunch
Water bottle
Insect repellent
Appropriate footwear - sneakers or hiking boots. Optional footwear for the river crossing.
A lightweight waterproof jacket if the weather looks like it could rain.
There's a write-up and a few pics of this walk here: https://www.haurakinaturally.nz/waitawheta
To all those who missed out, we're going to explore more of this area in the not-too-distant future - another flat easy walk with stunning views and historical sites. Don't miss out!