Waikato Wairere Stream crash site

A moderate to fit loop tramp of 5 to 9 hours depending on how far you go or the weather or conditions allow with the short loop only 11km. This is a high altitude tramp and adverse conditions can exist in any season. There are many bluffs after about 2 hours and good visibility is essential. The tramp starts on the tourist track towards Tama Lakes from the Chateau then heads SSE following the Wairere Stream on a rough track which is unclear at times. About an hour or so out there is a series of waterfalls and impressive whaleback ridges and pinnacles. There is a “grunty” ascent up through bluffs at about 2 hours on to a gently to moderately sloping area – this ascent can be impossible in snow and ice. From here a sidle due south is done heading straight at Te Heuheu peak. At some point the Wairere Stream line is crossed and the route then loops back towards Whakapapa on the Whakapapa Ridge. This walk can be attempted in wintertime but is better as a summer outing.

Last updated June 2010

Start Point: Easting 1819306 Northing 5657814