Last updated November 2026
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed Karamū Walkway North as closed: “The Karamu Walkway (both north and south ends) is closed until 31 October 2026 for the lambing season.” The reserve also closes from 1 August to 31 October every year for lambing, so check DOC before you go.
When open, the walkway crosses open farmland along a ridge from the Four Brothers Scenic Reserve on the Hamilton-Raglan road, about 20 km from Hamilton, to Old Mountain Road.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an intermediate tramping track, 2.7 km one way and 1 hr 30 min. It crosses private land and rewards walkers with panoramic views. Dogs are not allowed.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Karamū Walkway North on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- End of the Four Brothers Track, Four Brothers Scenic Reserve, State Highway 23
- Finish
- Old Mountain Road (partly gravel), 6 km from Waitetuna
- Distance from the city
- About 20 km from Hamilton
- Walking time
- 1 hr 30 min one way
- Track length
- 2.7 km one way
- Grade
- Intermediate tramping track
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Seasonal closure
- Closed 1 August to 31 October each year for lambing
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Closed when checked on 18 October 2026 (lambing season, until 31 October 2026). Check DOC for reopening.
About Karamū Walkway North
The walkway begins where the short Four Brothers Track ends, after a climb through bush from the State Highway 23 car park. From there you leave the trees and head across open farmland on private land.
White posts and orange markers lead along the main ridge to Old Mountain Road. DOC lists views of the Hakarimata Range to the north, Karioi and the coast to the west, Pirongia to the south and Hamilton city to the east, so on a clear day you can take in a wide sweep of the Waikato.
At Old Mountain Road, Karamū Walkway South starts on the other side of the road, so fit walkers can link the two into a longer day. Karamū Walkway South is part of Te Araroa.
The walk suits anyone comfortable on farm terrain and stiles who wants big views without a long drive from Hamilton. Since it is one way, plan to return the same way or arrange transport from Old Mountain Road.
Lambing Closure
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC’s alert read: “The Karamu Walkway (both north and south ends) is closed until 31 October 2026 for the lambing season.” DOC also notes the reserve closes from 1 August to 31 October every year, with dates subject to change, so check the DOC page before you go.
Walking on Farmland
Because the walkway crosses a working farm, DOC asks walkers to keep to the marked route, leave stock alone (bulls may be present), use stiles rather than gates, avoid hay barns and other farm structures, and be careful with cigarette butts. Do not take dogs or firearms, and avoid using the walkway after dark. Tell someone your plans.
Getting There
The northern end is reached from the Four Brothers Scenic Reserve on the Hamilton-Raglan highway (State Highway 23), which DOC places about 20 km from Hamilton and 25 km from Raglan. The southern end is on Old Mountain Road, 6 km from Waitetuna.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Karamū Walkway North open?
Not during lambing. When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC said the walkway was closed until 31 October 2026 for the lambing season, and it closes from 1 August to 31 October every year. Check DOC before you go.
How long does it take?
DOC gives 1 hr 30 min for the 2.7 km one-way walk.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an intermediate tramping track across open farmland.
Where does it start?
At the end of the Four Brothers Track, from the Four Brothers Scenic Reserve car park on State Highway 23.
Can I take my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed on the walkway.
What can I see?
The Hakarimata Range, Karioi and the coast, Pirongia, and Hamilton city.
Can I link it with other tracks?
Yes. Karamū Walkway South starts across Old Mountain Road.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Related links 2
- Department of Conservation: Karamū Walkway North: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
- Te Araroa Trail: the trail that continues south on Karamū Walkway South.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.