karangahake gorge

JenD-NZ

Several options in the gorge - we enjoy the walks, particularly on the Paeroa end. The windows walk is lovely although unfortunately part of it is temporarily closed down due to unstable rock. The pumphouse was also closed off today. The water is pleasant for a cool dip. The main carpark is generally full, but the one on the west end by the rail tunnel has more space and isn't far off. A nice place for everybody.

beth756

I took my son for one of the walks through the tunnel and it was a hit!! Nice easy track , lots of information along the way and plenty of places to stop off and cool your feet!Easy to find the main car park - a very popular spot too! So many options to walk here too , will definitely be back to do the other tracks!

cazzas2015

Stopped and walked one of the tracks around the river. Stunning beauty and such interesting history,My one gripe is that more parking areas are needed.

justkeef

Well we decided to take the day off and go for a bike ride, even though it was a really hot day this was the perfect place to visit, with the tunnel, trees for shade or just the side of the mountain we were able to explore and not get to over heated, even dipped our feet in the river, there are so many different routes to explore, we even put the bikes away and did a little hike too, defiantly worth a visit.

TDKAY2014

We have taken visitors of all ages and abilities here for many years. The walks are suitable for anyone and the bike trails are such an asset to the area. Beautiful winery, cafes and restaurants too!

SootyCambridge

Great trail for young and old as it is flat. We were out for a walk but the trail was mostly being used by bikers. The trail is quite exposed so probably not the best place for people that suffer from the heat as there is not much shade. We did take a dip at the falls which was very refreshing however. I am not sure that there is enough at the Victoria Battery that warrants a special visit as there is not much left of the gold operations of the past. Be sure to stop at the Falls Retreat for lunch!

467christinei

This has to be the best and cheapest fun anyone could have.Easy for young and old. Walkers or cyclists. So pretty.

CPLOsborne

Great free walking tracks. Plenty of variety for all fitness types and also great for adults and children interested in cycling these tracks! Great way to spend a few hours and close by to waihi & waihi beach.

willieandtracey

Wow, how many times have I travelled through the Karangahake Gorge in my life, probably 100 times and never ventured past the public toilets at the car park. Today my family and I went on an hour bike ride in a loop through the tunnel, it was so beautiful and made me wonder what else we miss as we whizz by in the car. Highly recommend stopping next time you pass by, give yourself an extra hour to explore and break up the trip.

FrankRizz0

We cycled the Karangahake Gorge from Waikino to Karangahake and back again in January 2015 and loved it. It's a very easy cycle and was managed with ease by our 9 and 11 year old children. There are lovely views of the river as you go and some sections through bush just to keep things cool on a hot day. There is a 1km long tunnel you can cycle through on the way and I'd suggest bike lights as it's very dark. A lot of people got off and walked through this. Next time we go back we'll do some of the walks from the Karangahake end of the gorge as these looked spectacular.

RickM638

We had been told that this was a must see and were not put wrong. The gorge is a wonderful place, made even better seeing nature restore herself after being abused in the name of greed. Both the natural beauty and history appealed to all of us, the latter all the better having earlier visited the Waihi Gold museum which gave us some historical context. At times it was a bit of a squeeze between walkers and cyclists, but both would enjoy this area. It's free, fairly easy to get to (but beware crazy drivers!) and well worthwhile.

612jillr

There are historic relics from the early goldmine era, and a good family friendly walking track through spectacular scenery including an old railway tunnel. Beware of cyclists in some parts though. The cycleway has opened up a new world for many visitors, and is immensely popular. To walk from Karangahake to Waikino and back could take an hour or so, but shorter distances can be taken at leisure. The Owharoa Waterfall near Waikino offers a dip in the river for the brave. The beautiful Gorge is well worth a visit from locals as well as holiday folk. Even driving through is a scenic delight.

nzwestie

We rode bikes from the parking area in the Karangahake Gorge right through to Waihi train station and back again. Such a lovely day. Through the old railway tunnel, over bridges, past ruins. Lots of people walking, running, biking and no problems at all.

Rachieno

Spent most of the day exploring the tracks. Lots of neat things to see that are well sign posted and clear trails to follow. Was go good to be able to take my dog along who had a great time too. He's one of the family and too few places allow dogs. Fun day, with nice easy walk :)

576michellee

The gorge is spectacular with all levels of walking abilities pretty much covered. Cycling available for large parts of the gorge. Some areas you need to dismount for.Kids loved the 1 km (ish) tunnel. A torch is handy.