Karangahake gorge
Karangahake gorge things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Karangahake Gorge, located near Waihi in New Zealand’s North Island, is a stunning natural and historical treasure that offers something for everyone. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a scenic spot to unwind, this gorge is a must-visit destination. The highlight of Karangahake Gorge is its beautiful walking tracks that wind through lush forests, alongside the Ohinemuri River. The Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway is particularly popular, offering a 7.5-kilometer track that not only provides breathtaking views but also takes visitors on a journey through the region’s gold mining history. Along the route, you'll encounter fascinating remnants of the past, including old mine shafts, tunnels, and buildings. One of the most exciting aspects of this track is walking through the old railway tunnels, adding an element of adventure to the hike. For those wanting a shorter, yet equally stunning experience, the Windows Walk offers incredible panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding landscapes, making it perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scenery. In addition to its rich history and scenic beauty, Karangahake Gorge is a great spot for birdwatching, picnicking, and even swimming during the summer months. The area’s diverse vegetation and crystal-clear river create a serene environment perfect for relaxation and exploration. Conveniently located just outside Waihi, Karangahake Gorge is an easy day trip for visitors staying in nearby towns like Waihi or Thames. Whether you’re looking to hike, learn about New Zealand’s gold mining history, or enjoy a peaceful day in nature, Karangahake Gorge is a must-see destination. Highly recommended!
Sino George
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I recently had the pleasure of embarking on this serene walk, and I must say, it was an absolute delight! The entire trail was beautifully shaded, providing a tranquil escape from the sun. The walk itself was increibly easy, well-maintained path made it accessible for walkers of all ages and abilities. The scenery was stunning, with lush greenery and flowing water surrounding me every step of the way. What truly made this walk stand out, however, was the sense of peace and calm that pervaded the entire experience. The shaded areas provided a cooling respite from the heat, and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze created a soothing melody that seemed to wash away all my worries. One tip for fellow walkers: consider bringing a flashlight. Some sections of the trail can get quite dark, and a flashlight will help you navigate safely. Whether you're a nature lover, a casual walker, or simply looking for a relaxing escape, this walk is an absolute must-do. So take a deep breath, lace up your walking shoes, and indulge in the serene beauty of this shaded oasis – you won't regret it!
Sarey (Artto)
00
Discover Karangahake Gorge: A Trekker’s Delight Karangahake Gorge is a beautiful trekking place for both young and old, offering plenty of parking. While it can get crowded during holidays, quick turnover makes it manageable. Embark on a family adventure with the tunnel trek, where you’ll be immersed in green, red, and orange hues and a mystical dim light. Once out of the tunnel, follow the path along the water beside the rock formations. Keep moving to avoid potential rockfalls, especially on rainy and windy days. The jagged rocks remind you of the Jurassic times, and the smaller wild waterfalls evoke the wild jungle scenes from The Jungle Book and Mowgli. This walk typically takes 1-2 hours, but take your time to enjoy the history and beauty. Bring snacks and drinks, make lasting memories, and let nature nurture your mind, heal your soul, inspire you, strengthen your being, and give hope to those in need. This natural wonder has stood for millions of years and will continue to do so for many more. Enjoy! 🌿 NHISH (Nurture - Heal - Inspire - Strengthen - Hope)
Isabell Stubbe
00
If you're looking for a stunning walk through the New Zealand bush, Karangahake Gorge is a must-visit spot. The natural beauty of the gorge is simply breathtaking, with towering trees, rocky cliffs, and sparkling streams that will leave you in awe. The walking tracks in the area are well-maintained and easy to navigate, with options for both beginners and more experienced hikers. Along the way, you'll encounter historic mining relics, including tunnels, bridges, and old mining machinery, adding an extra layer of interest to the experience. One of the real highlights of Karangahake Gorge is the fact that it's accessible year-round, making it a great option for visitors to the area no matter the season. Whether you're a local or a tourist, you won't want to miss the chance to explore this stunning natural wonder. Overall, I highly recommend a visit to Karangahake Gorge for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of New Zealand's bush. It's a truly breathtaking destination that you won't soon forget.
Liam Berghan
00
Haven't been in 10 years...still a great activity for all the family! Appears to have more facilites (parking, toilets, seating, shelter etc), than before. Swing bridge looks improved too? Not so narrow and 'swingy' as before. Not sure if that's a good thing or not, as.it was always exciting to traverse it as it swayed to and fro. Tracks appear wider in parts too. Very, very busy though -people taking photos etc. Noticed there were not so many people at the end of the day, around dinner time, as we left. Cycling through the tunnel was exhilarating! The cycle alongside the Ohinemuri river to Owharoa Falls was nice and easy too. Can't wait to go back and do the Train ride as well as a few of the walks. Would highly recommend this place as a day out for the family. Paeroa in one direction and Waihi in the other. There is so much to see and do here. Go early or later to avoid the crowds.
Danielle Campbell
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A great network of tracks around the gorge make it great for exploring and fun. Everything from an easy stroll to the gateway for multi day tramps. There are two must do tracks that both don't take too long. The main rail tunnel is the star of the show, only a short walk from the main carpark, and a long, dark, exciting remnant of the gold rail industry. The second is the windows walk, which isn't too long either (less than an hour return, with time for exploration and photos), and has a huge amount of tunnels and artifacts which are fantastic fun to explore through. There is also a path that heads back towards Waihi, going through Owharoa falls, and Waikino station. This trail is a good quality cycle trail, and as a result is very wide, flat, and unadventurous. We didn't find it very exciting for walking, but I'd imagine it'd be great for cycling. It also forms part of the Hauraki Cycle Trail.
Luca van Gorkom
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Nearby Attractions Of Karangahake gorge
Karangahake Windows Walk
The Crown Mines
Karangahake Tunnel

Karangahake Windows Walk
4.6
(115)
Click for details

The Crown Mines
4.8
(106)
Click for details

Karangahake Tunnel
4.9
(38)
Click for details
Basic Info
Address
State Highway 2, Karangahake 3674, New Zealand
Map
Website
thecoromandel.nz
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Reviews
Overview
4.7
(1.9K reviews)
Ratings & Description
outdoor
adventure
family friendly
Description
The Karangahake Gorge lies between the Coromandel and Kaimai ranges, at the southern end of the Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand's North Island. A sharply winding canyon, it was formed by the Ohinemuri River. State Highway 2 passes through this gorge between the towns of Paeroa, Waikino and Waihi.
attractions: Karangahake Windows Walk, The Crown Mines, Karangahake Tunnel, restaurants:

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