Last updated November 2026
The Wairake Track is the shorter and less steep of the two routes to the summit of Mt Karioi, the old volcano south of Raglan. It starts at the end of Karioi Road, about 44 km from Hamilton, so it makes a full day trip.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an advanced tramping track, 2 to 3 hours one way. The first 40 minutes cross private farmland, where access is allowed only during daylight hours, before the track climbs through native coastal forest. Dogs are not allowed.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Wairake Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- End of Karioi Road, off Ruapuke Road
- Distance from the city
- About 44 km from Hamilton
- Walking time
- 2–3 hr one way
- Track length
- About 3.3 km (calculated from DOC’s track line)
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Track type
- Tramping track
- Access
- Daylight hours only (crosses private farmland)
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Wairake Track
There are two tracks to the top of Karioi: this one and the Karioi Track. DOC says the Wairake Track is the shortest route to the summit and not as steep as parts of the Karioi Track, though it does not have the same views.
The walk begins with about 40 minutes across private farmland to the bush edge. Respect the access privilege, which only applies in daylight.
From the bush edge the track climbs steadily through coastal forest of kohekohe, māhoe, rewarewa and kāmahi, with a variety of ferns and shrubs, all the way to the summit.
You can return the same way, or cross the mountain by combining it with the Karioi Track. For a crossing, arrange transport from the other side.
Track Conditions and Safety
The high-level tracks on Karioi follow steep-sided ridges, and water is hard to find, especially in summer, so carry plenty. Plan to be off the farmland section before dark. Check DOC before you go, use Plan My Walk, and tell someone your plans.
Getting There
From Raglan, follow State Highway 23 and turn right onto Te Mata Road after 5.4 km. After 7.6 km turn right onto Ruapuke Road, then after 7 km turn right onto Karioi Road.
The track starts at the end of the road, 650 m on. From Hamilton, turn left onto Te Mata Road from State Highway 23 and follow the same directions.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Wairake Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Plan My Walk (NZ Mountain Safety Council): plan your trip, check gear and share your intentions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Wairake Track take?
DOC gives 2 to 3 hours one way to the summit.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track, though it is less steep than parts of the Karioi Track.
Wairake or Karioi Track?
DOC says Wairake is shorter and less steep; the Karioi Track is steeper but more scenic.
Can I walk it at any time?
No. The track crosses private farmland, and access is only allowed during daylight hours.
Can I take my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed.
Where does it start?
At the end of Karioi Road, off Ruapuke Road south of Raglan.
Is there water on the track?
DOC says water is difficult to find, especially in summer, so carry enough.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
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.