The track starts from the Kaniwhaniwha car park. It passes through a recently planted area, then follows along the stream to a loop walk, lush with nikau palms and tree ferns.

There are opportunities for swimming and picnicking along the stream, and a picnic/campsite with toilets is a short distance off the track.

This walk can be combined with the Kaniwhaniwha Caves adding 30 minutes to the walking time.

Mountain biking

The track is ideal for family cycling but do follow directional signs around the loop track.

This is a shared-use track. Follow the mountain bikers code: respect others, respect the rules, respect the track.

Getting There 

The track is accessed from Limeworks Loop Road.

From Hamilton take SH23 to Whatawhata. Turn left onto Te Pahu Road after the bridge over the Waipa River. Limeworks Loop Road is about 10.6 km on the right.

Know Before You Go 

Pack a waterproof raincoat, warm clothes and spare food for your walk. Find a full packing list here: the day hike packing list.

Because of poorly drained soils, the tracks can be very muddy and slippery, especially after rain. We recommend sturdy shoes with good grip.

Check the Pirongia Mountain weather forecast – NIWA website 

All content and images courtesy of Department of Conversation.