By Outdoor Next Editorial standards
On this page
Location & access
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route. Check the official route directions before travel.
Official location informationLocation source
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route.
Reference point: -37.13647, 175.68016. WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
DOC Maps walking and tramping reference point (WGS84), exact official-page GUID / Department of Conservation. Checked 2026-10-12.
Key facts
- Distance
- 7.2 km return via same track
- Walking time
- 6 hr return
- Track grade
- Advanced
- Location
- Coromandel Forest Park
- Dog access
- No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
This track takes you to one of the distinctive peaks of the Coromandel ranges.
This DOC directory entry covers Kaitarakihi Summit Track in Waikato, within Coromandel Forest Park. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: 7.2 km return via same track
- Walking time: 6 hr return
- DOC grade: Advanced
Access and alerts
Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.
Dog access
No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
This undulating track crosses rugged terrain, culminating in a steep climb to Kaitarakihi summit (852 m). There are chains in place for the final ascent. The views from the top offer incredible vistas.
Getting there
About 15 km from Kopu along SH25A. The track is signposted and parking is opposite the track or further down the road at a rest area.
Know before you go
There is no track beyond the summit
The track ends at the summit – there is no track to the Kauaeranga Valley. The track that used to continue from the summit is closed to protect kauri from kauri dieback disease.
This track is recommended for experienced trampers only
It is a rough and challenging tramping track. There are lots of tree roots, muddy/boggy parts, steep sections and places where you need to climb rather than walk. There are many ups and downs throughout the track, so good fitness is needed.
It gets extremely slippery after rain, so you need study boots with good grip.
There are steep drops and climbing needed
There is a rocky climb near the summit with steep drop-offs. Chains are in place to help trampers but it is still a very difficult and technical section. Go slowly and take great care, turn back if you aren’t confident.
Sources and reuse
Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.
The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.
