Kid-friendly Adventures | Ngaruawahia

Perched beside the Hakarimata Scenic Reserve, Ngaruawahia has become a popular spot for fitness fanatics tackling the infamous Hakarimata Steps. However! there are more sedate adventures to be had with little ones.

Waterworks Walk

This historic 750,000 litre reservoir is tucked away at the base of the Reserve and is a fun spot to poke around. Meander along the well graded track beside the Mangarata Stream before arriving at the dam’s spillway. Bring a picnic and enjoy the serenity of the native forest. The path continues to the infamous Hakarimata Steps so watch out for people returning on their wobbly legs. The reservoir was built in 1922 and once supplied water to Ngaruawahia. Parking is on Brownlee Avenue. 

Time: Allow 45 to 60 min (1km) for a casual explore.
Accessibility: Well graded trail. Some steps. Only suitable for walking.
Dogs: No dogs.

Hakarimata Glowworms

This mini-adventure can easily be done at dusk for an explore of the forest banks. Bring the kids and a torch. This walk follows Mangarata Stream on the way to the infamous Hakarimata Steps. But before the main stairs there are damp forest banks teeming with glowworms. If you turn the torch off youngsters will be delighted by the hundreds of bright lights that appear in the dusk. Enjoy spotting the critters dangling their sticky lines hoping to catch dinner. Parking on Brownlee Avenue.

Time: Allow 15 min one way to the grotto.
Accessibility: Well graded paths with steps. Only suitable for walking.
Dogs: No dogs.

Kauri Loop Track

A well formed track through native bush and a serene grove of noble Kauri, including one of the biggest of its kind in the Waikato, on the way up to a scenic lookout with panoramic views of North Waikato. Parking at the end of Parker Road off Hakarimata Road.

Time: Allow 40 min to the Kauri Grove return.
Accessibility: Well graded paths with lots of steps. Only suitable for walking.
Dogs: No dogs.