Two tracks in Waikato’s popular Hakarimata Ranges are in line for upgrades starting in February.
The work will require temporary closures of the Southern Hakarimata-Waingaro Link on the Hakarimata Walkway and the Waterworks Walk, which leads into the much-loved Hakarimata Summit Track.
The Waterworks Walk will close briefly for two days on February 11-12 to enable major track restoration work to be done. Leading into the Hakarimata Summit Track, famous locally for its 1349 steps, it will be closed so work to repair and stabilise part of the track. Because the track will only be closed between the hours of 7am and 4.30pm on those two days, users can still get their early morning or evening fitness fix and enjoy the glorious sunrise and sunset views from the summit.
“A good alternative daytime walk or run is the Kauri Loop Track, accessed from Parker Road,” says Glyn Morgan, DOC senior ranger at the Department of Conservation, Waikato.
“A partnership between DOC, the Waikato District Council, the Waikato Regional Council and the District Alliance is responsible for this work,” says Glyn. “It will make it easier and safer for track users. 309 metres of the track will be resealed, and the retaining wall will have work done to stabilise it so that the track can be reinstated and widened in its narrowest area”.
“This track has had more than 200,00 visitors in the past year, so it will be wonderful to see it in top condition as a result of all our organisations working together,” he says.
Glyn commended “huge contribution” to track maintenance by several community and conservation-minded people who carry gravel bags up the track, getting a tougher workout in the process. “The track above the section being re-sealed still needs gravel, so feel free to keep on taking it up there!”
From February 1, work on the Southern Hakarimata-Waingaro Link track will see the closure of the whole southern section of the Hakarimata Walkway for 12 weeks between the Rail Trail and the Hakarimata Summit Track.
“The work, due to start February 1 will make this section of the Hakarimata Walkway more accessible to track users,” says Glyn. “It will bring it up to the same standards as the rest of the Walkway. Steps will be installed and the track will be improved to enhance the visitor experience in this beautiful forest.”
The work will require as many as 25 helicopter flights into the area on Friday, February 5, or Tuesday, February 9, depending on the weather, for contractors to fly in timber and equipment.
