The Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway follows the old Paeroa-Waihi railway line
through the gorge above the Ohinemuri River.It passes historical features associated with the
gold fields. Beside the walkway can be seen the remains of mine buildings and machinery,
including stamper batteries used to extract gold from quartz. The walkway gives a fascinating
glimpse of the history of a major gold producing area that operated from 1875 to 1952.

How to Get There

Karangahake Gorge is between Paeroa and
Waihi, with access via State Highway 2. There
are three points of entry to the walkway, at
Karangahake; Owharoa Falls, off Waitawheta
Road; and at the Waikino Historic Station and
Visitor Centre.


Attractions and Facilities

Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway

(Easy walking, 45mins to 3hrs return)
The walkway has three sections. From the
Waikino Visitor Centre, across a footbridge to
the Victoria Battery site, follow the old railway
line to the Owharoa Falls/Taieri Stream
confluence at Waitawheta Road (1hr return).
From the other end, start at Karangahake beside
the foundations of the Crown Battery, cross
the river and go through the 1100m former
rail tunnel, which is well lit. From a bridge at
the tunnel exit there is a choice of going on to
Owharoa Falls (3hrs return) or taking the loop
track back to Karangahake (45mins). The loop
track is unsuitable for wheelchairs.


Please Remember

Mine tunnels are dangerous. They may be hidden
by vegetation. Keep to official tracks and do
not enter tunnels unless they are clearly marked
for public access. Horses, vehicles (including
bicycles and motorbikes), fires, removal of plants
or animals, camping or hunting are not
permitted.