23rd July 2018 - DETOUR 28th July to late 2019
Due to tree felling in the Kinleith Forest beside the Whakamaru Reserve there is a detour in place from the Whakamaru Dam.
This detour is approx 2.7km from the Whakamaru Dam, along Ongaroto Road and then heads back onto the trail.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Easily accessed from Whakamaru Dam this 23.5 km section is almost always in sight of the scenic and expansive Lake Whakamaru. The trail is moderately technical with some short steep areas and corners to navigate and is graded INTERMEDIATE. Almost directly across the lake at the Atiamuri start point is stunning Pohuturoa rock, a magnificent historically significant feature.
Pohuturoa rock & Lake Whakamaru
The Trail then hugs the Lake through pine forest native bush and adjacent to farmland. Half way through this section across the lake bluffs rise from the lake providing an amazing backdrop.
Top of the Ongaroto Bluffs staircase, Lake Whakamaru
Just 3km short of the Whakamaru Dam is the popular Lake Whakamaru Reserve, a popular summer camping destination. The reserve is dotted with magnificent pine trees.
Lake Whakamaru Reserve
Once at the Whakamaru Dam it's only a short ride to The Dam Café in the Whakamaru Village for a well deserved break.
Trail Grade Info
The Whakamaru section has been graded as 3 (Intermediate):
Grade 3 (Intermediate) - Off road trails can be narrow and may include hill climbs, steep drop offs and small river crossings. The trail surface is mostly firm, but may include muddy or loose sections. These may be obstacles to avoid.
Grade 3 (Intermediate) - Off road trails can be narrow and may include hill climbs, steep drop offs and small river crossings. The trail surface is mostly firm, but may include muddy or loose sections. These may be obstacles to avoid.