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pirongia
Three extinct volcanos, now eroded
into steep broken hills, form an impressive backdrop to the lush
green farmlands of the Waikato basin.
These volcanos are poor cousins to the three snow-capped giants
of the Tongariro National Park. In past epochs they would have
stood exceedingly tall, roaring defiance and belching out pumice
and ash, but today they are a valuable resource for the ardent
tramper, bird-watcher, botanist, and photographer.
The Pirongia Forest Park is 30 km west of Hamilton. It is
accessed from a number of secondary roads, which lead to marked
farm routes over private property to the park boundary. The Mt
Pirongia block has an extensive track system leading to the
summit (959 metres). It links with Central Hut in the middle of
the block, a promontory called The Cone and several clearings and
campsites. This mountain is usually climbed from Corcoran Road on
the Hamilton side.
Mt Karioi block is located 12 km southwest of Raglan, from where
you can complete an interesting around-the-mountain drive in 2
hours. The Te Toto tramping track is very scenic, although
strenuous. It ascends steeply to a lookout point and then follows
an easier route to the summit. From the east side the Wairake
Track is a steep 2 hour hike to the summit, and it meets up with
the Te Toto Track.
Te Rauamoa block can be reached via Hauturu Road off S.H.31 and
you can also approach the forest from the southeast along Oamaru
Road. This area is less frequented than the others. The Te Kihi
Track runs from Hauturu Road through the forest to farmland in
the northeast.
Plant life is interesting as the park falls within a transition
zone where the southern limit of kauri meets the northern limit
of beech. Lacebark trees from northern areas merge with southern
rata and kamahi. Camping is allowed throughout the park with
three exceptions:- the Te Rauamoa block, Oparau Ecological Area
and the Maungamuka Stream Water Supply Catchment.
Mt Pirongia is visible from much of the Waikato region rising
abruptly out of the lowland forest. Explore its bush-clad slopes
and enjoy the expansive views.
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