Last updated November 2026
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed Karamū Walkway South 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, this section of Te Araroa runs from Old Mountain Road across rolling pasture studded with limestone outcrops, through a bush remnant, to the Karamū limeworks near Fillery Road. It is about 19 km from Hamilton. The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an intermediate tramping track, 8.1 km one way and 4 hours. 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 South on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- South side of Old Mountain Road (partly gravel), 6 km from Waitetuna
- Finish
- Car park off Fillery Road, near Limeworks Loop Road
- Distance from the city
- About 19 km from Hamilton
- Walking time
- 4 hr one way
- Track length
- 8.1 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 South
The track starts on the south side of Old Mountain Road. After an initial climb, you cross gently rolling pasture dotted with limestone outcrops, which DOC highlights as impressive bluffs and the main feature of the tramp.
At the southern end, the track drops into a bush remnant, descending steeply in places where it can be slippery when wet. A farm road then leads down to grassy flats, passing some large tōtara and kahikatea.
Follow the markers above the limeworks mill to the car park and out to Fillery Road. DOC says not to cross the swing bridge over the Kaniwhaniwha Stream, which is closed and due for removal.
You can combine this track with Karamū Walkway North and the Four Brothers Track for one longer walk. If you do not want to retrace your steps, arrange transport from Limeworks Loop Road or 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.” The reserve closes from 1 August to 31 October every year, with dates subject to change, so check the DOC page first.
Walking on Farmland
The walkway crosses private farmland. Keep to the marked route, leave stock alone (bulls may be present), use stiles rather than gates, avoid hay barns and farm structures, and be careful with cigarette butts. Do not take dogs or firearms, and avoid the walkway after dark. Tell someone your plans.
Getting There
The northern end is on Old Mountain Road (partly gravel), 6 km from Waitetuna. For the Karamū end, turn off Limeworks Loop Road onto Fillery Road, cross the one-lane bridge, then follow the signs along a farm track to the car park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Karamū Walkway South open?
Not during lambing. When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC said it was closed until 31 October 2026 for the lambing season, and it closes from 1 August to 31 October every year.
How long does it take?
DOC gives 4 hours for the 8.1 km one-way tramp.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an intermediate tramping track, with steep, possibly slippery sections in the bush.
Is it part of Te Araroa?
Yes. DOC says this track is part of Te Araroa.
Can I take my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed.
Where does it start and finish?
The northern end is reached from Old Mountain Road; the Karamū end has a car park reached via Fillery Road.
Can I cross the Kaniwhaniwha Stream swing bridge?
No. DOC says it is closed and due for removal.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Related links 2
- Department of Conservation: Karamū Walkway South: 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: trail notes for this and other sections of Te Araroa.
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.