Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The best map for this tramp is NZTopo50 BH36 (Motutere).
HUTS & CAMPING
are first-come, first-served, equipped with a wood burner, and can be paid for with DOC
backcountry hut passes and hut tickets. Fuel is supplied but you are encouraged to use it
sparingly.
Campsites are located next to Waipakihi Hut, although there are also plenty of lovely
INFORMATION SOURCES
Turangi i-SITE (
Click here
)
is the local DOC agent, and can therefore supply information
and maps on the Kaimanawa Forest Park and other reserves in the area.
8
Getting to/from the Tramp
Most of the tracks in the Kaimanawa Forest Park are isolated and difficult to reach without a
vehicle. The Umukarikari-Urchin Circuit is the exception, being located not far off SH1,
15km south of Turangi.
From SH1, head east on Kaimanawa Rd. From the highway turn-off it's 6km to the
Umukarikari car park, and 8km to the Urchin car park. It's 6km from one trailhead to the
other.
Turangi-based Turangi Alpine Shuttles (
Click here
) offers track transport (return $45) as
well as secure vehicle storage.
Rd, but you have to clear it with the driver first and purchase the full fare for Turangi to
Waiouru.
The Tramp
Day 1: Umukarikari Car Park to Waipakihi Hut
6-8 HOURS, 14KM, 911M ASCENT, 500M DESCENT
Most of this day is spent tramping along the open ridges of the
Umukarikari Range
. Pay
homage to the weather gods - sacrifice a bag of scroggin if you have to - because if they
