Rarakau Car Park

Fabulous but tough tramp over 62ks. The track needs work in places where the mud and tree roots make walking challenging. The contrast between the 1080 treated bush and trap only Bush was astonishing. I am completely converted to 1080 now to restore NZ bird life.

Tough route for intermediate level hikers/trampers.Wonderfully varied route taking in beaches, country road, rainforest and sub alpine.The lodges are fully equipped, super cozy, clean and a nice alternative to the great walks with no alternative to camping. Lighter pack (minus camping gear) makes the hike a lot more enjoyable.Pack plenty of deet/insect repellent, sandflies are intense, particularly on day 3. Also advise packing a waterproof camera as day 3 also provides opportunity to spot a the school of Hector Dolphins which hang out at one of the neighbouring beaches.Highly recommend this well run, highly underrated, walk in beautiful untouched part of NZ

Great demanding tramp, great huts, tracks are back country with the first day a big climb over many tree roots. Awesome views. Pack some massage cream for your feet and calves for the end of day 2 as the tram trail gives them hell.You must stay at The Cliffs Motel and Lodge" the night before the tramp and at the end

Good road in...lodging & small shop plus toilet.

Had a nice coffee at the hostel. Peaceful little place.

Lovely walk as far as the beach, track was quite muddy in places

This is a great track. Exceded my expectations but you have to be fit to really enjoy it. Long days and steep climbs.

Instead of sharing how much I like this track, I think the information below can be useful:If you travel solo, staying at Last Light Lodge before and after will make things easy. It also provides great food and coffee.Smartly packed and essentials carried.The map (the last picture) having time and distance of each section from the track office seemed a very good guidance;Train very hard on steep climb beforehand and it will make you enjoy hiking; (I am fit so the steep climb was easy for me, the time I actually took: the first day 6 hours, the second day 5 hours and the last day 6 hours, including plenty photos and videos stops)4 minutes shower time rather than 3, hot water was great, shampoo provided;Pack clean base layers for each day as you could be completely toasty.Waterproof socks (Brand: sealskinz) kept my feet always dry; Make sure test the waterproof socks ahead, the warm weather and soft touch socks were as comfy as merino socks. Gaiters were useful for muddy terrain;Sandflies net was plenty used;Around Okaka lodge and the summit can be very cold and windy, down jacket/warm hat recommended.Drinking water at least 1.5 L per day.

safe carparkthe lodge next to it is a very lovely and nice place. The owners welcomed us very warm and place itself is a nice little retreat from stress, noise and the fast society