po box 9311

tauranga | new zealand 3142

07 543 1441

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bush walks

kiwi zone | no dogs | no mountain bikes

The Otanewainuku scenic reserve is located approx 20 kms south of Tauranga. Coming from Tauranga take Oropi Rd, left at Mountain Rd. Coming from Te Puke take No 2 Road then right at Mountain Rd.

Otanewainuku has never been logged so visitors are treated to some splendid examples of native flora including giant rimu. The forest is home to a variety of native birds and the inquisitive native robins are generally quick to check out walkers. Dogs are not permitted in the reserve due to the danger they pose to kiwi. There is a shelter, picnic area, information panels and toilets opposite the car park. Two walking tracks start from the picnic area: the tracks are well maintained.

rimu loop walk

45 min return | easy | 2km

The rimu loop walk starts on the carpark egde, on the opposite side of the road to the shelter. It is a gently graded walk that features some giant rimu trees, and finishes back at the road. Information panels are placed along the track to help identify native species. Ideal for school or family walks. Although a gentle walk, this track is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.

whataroa waterfall - off the rimu loop

2 hours return | moderate

Whataroa waterfall is a popular swimming hole and picnic spot.

For the slightly more agile, a well marked route branches off the rimu loop track after 15 minutes and undulates through the forest to the Whataroa Falls. Explore this lovely stream with cascades and pools before returning the same way. Beyond the waterfall this track goes north to the main ridge track which leads to Otawa Scenic Reserve. It is around 18.5 km or 9 hours to Upper Papamoa Road.  For a map and further details on this track contact the Tauranga Area DOC Office 07 578 7677

otanewainuku summit track

2 hours return | moderate

The loop track to the summit (an extinct volcano) is steep in parts. It starts behind the shelter and the view from the top is worth the climb. A tower constructed on the summit (645 metres) offers panoramic views from East Cape to Mount Tarawera and Rotorua, and across the Mamaku Plateau to Mount Ruapehu..