Is there a playground at Bishops Lane Reserve?
The TronCity guide
No, there's no playground or sports field here. It's a simple layout of paths and tree cover, so it suits a quiet walk rather than play.
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Is there a drinking fountain or tap anywhere in the reserve, or do you need to bring water?
Is there parking at Parana Park in Hamilton East?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Parana Park has parking on site, so you can drive to the playground and riverside walkways.
How busy does Parana Park get on weekends and school holidays?
What equipment does the Bolmuir Park playground have?
The TronCity guide
Timber balance beams, stepping logs and climbing poles surround a central Pohutukawa tree. There are also swings, slides, overhead bars, a climbing net and a scaling wall.
Are there any public toilets close to the playground at Bolmuir Park?
How much parking is there at Gower Park?
The TronCity guide
There are two parking lots with 120 spaces in total. You can get into the park from Alison Road, Sandleigh Road, Hibiscus Avenue, Ohaupo Road and the Thermal Expressway.
Is there any water play at Gower Park, or somewhere kids can get wet in summer?
Can you see glowworms at Hammond Park?
The TronCity guide
You might spot glowworms around dusk along one section of the path.
How shady is the boardwalk loop in the afternoon on a hot day?
Which streets can I enter Jansen Park from?
The TronCity guide
You can get into Jansen Park off Morris Road, Morrinsville Road and Regent Street.
Is there a drinking fountain or tap near the playground, or should I bring water?
What is there to see at the top of Beerescourt Park hill?
The TronCity guide
The top of the hill has a trig station and great views over the surrounding residential area.
Is there much shade on the hill in the afternoon, or is it pretty exposed?
Do the fields get waterlogged after heavy rain?
The TronCity guide
They can. Some regulars find the fields get waterlogged after heavy rain, which affects how well you can play on them.
Is the playground okay for toddlers, or better for older kids?
Where can I park when visiting Kahikatea Park?
The TronCity guide
Park on the street along Kahikatea Drive or Karen Crescent. The park has no dedicated off-street car park.
Is there a drinking fountain at Kahikatea Park, or should I bring my own water?
What time do the Porritt Stadium car park gates open in the morning?
The TronCity guide
The gates open at 6am daily. They lock at 8.30pm, and if you need to leave while they're locked you can phone and pay a late call-out fee.
How noisy does it get overnight with the neighbours and any late training or events?
Is there a shop near Enderley Park where I can grab snacks?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Mardon Food Market is close to the park and is handy for drinks and snacks.
Is the playground okay for toddlers or better for older kids?
Is there car parking at Tauhara Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there is car parking at Tauhara Park, along with toilets and a playground.
Is the playground fenced at all, or can kids wander off towards the fields?
How late are the floodlights on at Korikori Park's artificial turf?
The TronCity guide
The artificial turf field is floodlit for evening and winter use until 9.30pm.
Is there much shade around the playground and fields in the afternoon?
Is the Hamilton Lake walkway okay with a pushchair?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the 3.8 km walkway around Hamilton Lake is mostly flat, so it suits pushchairs. Expect about an hour for the full loop.
Is the playground fenced off from the lake edge?
Is there any shade at Steele Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there are shaded spots in the park, along with open grass that suits family gatherings and relaxed outings.
Does the playground work for toddlers, or is it more for bigger kids?
Is there a cafe near Hillcrest Stadium for a coffee or lunch?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there's a cafe nearby for lunch or coffee. Picnic tables are also at the playground if you'd rather bring your own food.
Are there any lights around the track after dark, or is it too dark to ride?
Does Crawshaw Park connect to other reserves for a longer walk?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Crawshaw Park is part of a green space link between Bishops Lane Reserve and Dominion Park, so you can link up with those reserves from it.
Are there any toilets close to the playground, or is it a dash home?
Does Swarbrick Landing share parking with Days Park next door?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the car park on River Road also works as overflow parking for neighbouring Days Park, so it can get busier when events or sport are on there.
Is there a playground nearby, or is it mostly just grass and the river for kids?
Are there toilets at Seddon Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Seddon Park has toilets on site. The ground also has a clubroom, changing rooms and a grandstand.
Is Seddon Park easy to get around in a wheelchair, including getting to the seating?
Where can I leave my bike when I go to a game at FMG Stadium?
The TronCity guide
Use the bike racks at Gates 2 and 4. The stadium is about a 15 to 20 minute walk from the CBD, so it's an easy ride in too.
Are there drinking fountains or places to refill a water bottle inside the stadium?
Is there any shade along the riverside paths?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the route through Mangakotukutuku Gully has a mix of open river views and shaded sections, so you get both sun and shade along the way.
How long does a relaxed walk from Sandford Park along the river usually take?
Is there drinking water at Hare Puke Park Playground?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there is a drinking fountain at the playground. Toilets, picnic tables and park benches are also provided on site.
Is the playground fenced off from the road, or is it open all round?
Are there toilets at Roose Commerce Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the park. Parking is also available on site and on the street.
Is there a public BBQ near the river here, or do people bring their own?
Are there picnic tables at Ranfurly Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Ranfurly Park has picnic tables, along with a walkway, bike path and playground. Most of the park is native bush, with only a small grassed section.
Are there any public toilets close to the Ranfurly Park playground?
What time do the public toilets open and close at Hamilton Gardens?
The TronCity guide
The public toilets are open from 7.30am to 6pm. The carpark is open longer, from 6.15am to 9pm, so allow for that if you stay late.
Is the playground fenced, or is it open to the paths and lake?
Is there drinking water at Magical Bridge Playground in Claudelands Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the playground has drinking fountains, along with shade and seating.
Are there proper picnic tables close to the playground, or just benches?
Is there anything for older kids at Moonlight Drive Playground?
The TronCity guide
Yes, older kids get climbing nets and walls and monkey bars. Younger ones have their own junior area with a small slide and sand play.
Is there any water play here, or anywhere close by for kids to splash around?
Are there toilets or a playground near Claudelands Bush?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Claudelands Park next to the bush has a big playground and toilets, and the toilets are disability-friendly. The bush itself just has internal boardwalks.
Are there any picnic tables near the bush, or do people head into Claudelands Park?
Which streets can I enter Ashurst Park from?
The TronCity guide
You can get into the park off Church Road, Ashurst Avenue and Minnie Place. The playground and sports fields are all within the same park.
Is the playground fenced, or is it open to the road and car park?
Is there car parking at Bremworth Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there's an onsite car park with 25 spaces.
Is there a drinking fountain or tap near the playground for filling bottles?
Is there parking at Melville Park in Bader?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Melville Park has parking available at the park, so you can drive to the playground, skatepark and dog area.
Is the playground fenced off from the road and the dog area?
Is there parking near Kahikatea Park in Dinsdale?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there's on-street and nearby parking that serves most visitors. You can reach the park from either Kahikatea Drive or Karen Crescent.
Is there enough here to keep older kids busy, or is it mostly for the little ones?
Is there a drinking fountain at Te Inuwai Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there's a drinking fountain at the park, along with picnic areas, community gardens and bike and scooter tracks.
Is the playground fenced, or can kids get out to the pump track and street easily?
Is Dominion Park Playground suitable for toddlers as well as older kids?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the layout suits toddlers right through to older kids, with play that gets progressively more challenging and creative.
Is the playground fenced at all, or can kids get out towards Dominion Road easily?
Is there any shade at Carrs Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there is some tree shade. Three liquidambars line the northern boundary, and a cluster of liquidambar and kahikatea trees runs from the middle of the park to the southern end.
Is the playground fenced off from Carrs Road?
Is there any shade at Chedworth Park playground?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there are plenty of mature trees along the western boundary of the park, and young trees have been planted in groups around the park too.
Are there any picnic tables here, or just the park benches?
Is there much shade at Chartwell Park Playground?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the native gully setting is shady, a pleasant contrast to the open fields nearby.
Are the gully paths flat and firm enough for a pram, or is it steep and muddy?
Is the riverbed at Wellington Street Beach sandy or muddy?
The TronCity guide
It's sandy. The riverbed is pumice sand, and there's a nice sandy beach along the shore, with introduced trees lining the riverbanks.
Are there lifeguards on duty at Wellington Street Beach in summer?
Is there a path through Caernarvon Park to Caernarvon Street?
The TronCity guide
Yes, a path from Dunvegan Place runs down the western side of the park to Caernarvon Street, so you can walk through on foot.
Is the playground fenced off from the steep bank, or can kids wander near the edge?
Are there picnic tables at Hayes Paddock?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there are picnic tables and park benches at Hayes Paddock. There's also a cafe nearby if you'd rather not bring your own food.
Is the river edge near the playground okay for little kids to paddle in?
Which side of the Waikato River is Braithwaite Park on?
The TronCity guide
Braithwaite Park is on the western bank of the Waikato River, in the Pukete suburb of Hamilton.
Is the path in from Totara Drive okay for a pram?
Where is Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park, and is it near anything else?
The TronCity guide
It's on the northwest outskirts of Hamilton, directly across the road from Hamilton Zoo. The park covers 60 hectares, so it's easy to combine with a zoo visit.
Is there much shade on the tracks, or is it pretty exposed in the afternoon?
Which side of the Waikato River has the continuous path in Hamilton?
The TronCity guide
The western (city) side. The path runs the length of the city from Cobham Bridge to Horotiu Bridge. The eastern side isn't continuous, but links to the bridges, parks and Hamilton Gardens.
Is there anywhere to shelter along the river if the rain comes in while you're walking?
How long is the Te Awa River Ride that the riverside path connects to?
The TronCity guide
The Te Awa River Ride is 65km, running from Ngaruawahia to Lake Karapiro beside the Waikato River. It's the longest concrete path in the country.
Is the riverside walk good for young kids, or do they get bored on it?
Is there water play at the Minogue Park playground?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the playground has sand and water play. It also has two flying foxes, in-ground trampolines and a scooter track.
Do toddlers manage the playground okay, or is it better for older kids?
Where can I park when visiting Hamilton Lake Domain?
The TronCity guide
There's parking off Ruakiwi Road and at Innes Common, which is handy if you're heading to the sports fields.
Is the main playground okay for toddlers, or is it mostly for bigger kids?
How long is the Nikau Walk return from the car park?
The TronCity guide
The Nikau Walk is 7 km and takes about 2 hr 30 min return from the Kaniwhaniwha car park. It's an easy to intermediate track.
How quiet is the campsite at night, and does it fill up with groups at weekends?
What can you see from the viewing platform at Pukemokemoke?
The TronCity guide
The summit loop track ends at a viewing platform with views of Mt Te Aroha, Mt Pirongia and the Hakarimatas.
Do primary school age kids manage the climb up to the lookout okay?
Where do I park for the Mangakotukutuku Gully Walk?
The TronCity guide
Park on the street near the entry points. Fitzroy Avenue, Malcolm Street and Donny Avenue in the Glenview-Melville area all give access to the walk.
How muddy does the gully track get after a few days of rain?
Is the Magical Bridge playground at Claudelands Park fenced?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the Magical Bridge Destination Playground is a fenced area of 8000m².
Is the playground okay for toddlers or better suited to older kids?
What kinds of native trees will I see along the paths at A J Seeley Gully?
The TronCity guide
Mature groves of kahikatea, rimu, kanuka, mahoe, nikau palms and tree ferns line the walkways. The gully was bare land before planting began in the 1960s.
How muddy or slippery do the paths get after a few days of rain?
How big is the Waikato University campus in Hamilton?
The TronCity guide
The Hamilton campus covers 65 hectares. It was built on what used to be farmland, and today it has gardens, lakes and sports grounds.
Is there much shade along the lake paths on a hot afternoon?
How close can my dog go to a playground or skatepark along the river path?
The TronCity guide
Dogs aren't allowed within 10 metres of any playground or skatepark in Hamilton, so keep well clear of them if you're walking the river path with your dog.
Is there much shade along the river path in the afternoon, or is it mostly open?
Is there a playground at Hamilton Gardens for the kids?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there's a playground at Hamilton Gardens, so it works well for families. You can also rent bikes to explore along the Waikato River.
Where are the toilets, and are they easy to get to from the far gardens?
Are there public toilets at Mangaiti Gully?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at Tauhara Park and Mangaiti Gully, along with a playground and car parking.
Is the playground worth a visit for older kids, or is it mostly for little ones?
Which car park is closest to the Blue Spring?
The TronCity guide
Leslie Road. The Blue Spring is closer to the Leslie Road entrance than to the Whites Road one, so it's the better pick if you want the shorter walk.
Can you get a pram along the track to the spring, or are there too many steps and stiles?
Is there parking at Taitua Arboretum?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there's ample parking on site at the arboretum, at 55 Taitua Road, Temple View.
Are the paths okay for a pram, or are they rough in places?
Does the waterfall still flow well in late summer, or does it get pretty weak?
Is there a car park at the start of the Hakarimata Summit Track?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there is parking at Brownlee Avenue, the main access for the Summit Track. There is also parking at the Parker Road and Waingaro Road entrances.
How much shade is there on the climb on a hot afternoon?
Are there toilets at Bridal Veil Falls?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there are long-drop toilets at the reserve, along with a car park.
Is the track to the top platform OK for a pram or does it get muddy after rain?
What are Glenview Library's opening hours on Saturday and Sunday?
The TronCity guide
Saturday is 9:30am to 1pm, and it's closed on Sunday. Monday to Friday it's open 9:30am to 5:30pm.
Is there a kids' area where little ones can play while you choose books?
How long does the Southern Enclosure walk at Sanctuary Mountain take?
The TronCity guide
The Southern Enclosure walk is about 5 km and takes 1 to 2 hours. It's graded easy, so it suits most ages and fitness levels.
Are there any picnic tables near the visitor centre or on the shorter tracks?
Can I get photocopying done at Dinsdale Library?
The TronCity guide
Yes, photocopying is available at Dinsdale Library. There are also community notice boards, and staff can help with general inquiries.
Is the library easy to get into with a wheelchair or pram? Any steps or tight spots inside?
Do I need a torch for the Kaniwhaniwha Caves walk?
The TronCity guide
Yes, bring a torch. The cave is wet underfoot, and you can walk through the 20 metre main cave except for a short hands-and-knees crawl.
Are there toilets at the car parks where the walks start?
Can I replace a lost library book instead of paying the admin fee?
The TronCity guide
Yes. If you replace a lost item with a copy in good condition, either the same edition or a newer one, you don't pay the $25 administration fee.
Is it easy to find parking close to the library on a weekday?
Are e-bikes allowed on the Waikato River Trails?
The TronCity guide
Yes, e-bikes are allowed and you can hire them through most bike-hire companies. Check your battery has enough charge for the day, and ask about recharging if you're staying locally.
Are there toilets along the Karapiro section, or is it best to plan ahead?
Is Chartwell Library open late on any night of the week?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Thursday, when it stays open until 8pm. Other weekdays it closes at 5.30pm, and on Saturday and Sunday it closes at 5pm. It opens at 9.30am every day.
What's the kids' area like for under fives, is there room to play and a good range of books?
Can I reserve books to pick up at the temporary Hillcrest Library?
The TronCity guide
Yes, you can place free holds on any item and pick them up at the temporary Hillcrest branch at Hamilton Gardens. The branch itself has a smaller collection.
How easy is it to find a park near the temporary library at Hamilton Gardens?
Is there drinking water on the Te Aroha Summit Track?
The TronCity guide
No, there's no water anywhere on the track, so carry your own. Plan on 2 to 3 litres per person for the long climb.
Do you share the Te Aroha bike track with walkers, or is it mostly just riders?
Is Porritt Stadium open for freedom camping all year round?
The TronCity guide
Yes, freedom camping at Porritt Stadium is available 365 days a year, but only in certified self-contained vehicles in the designated part of the car park. No more than six vehicles can park there at once.
Does it feel safe staying the night at Porritt, and does anything wake you early?
Which road do I take to get to Mighty River Domain at Lake Karapiro?
The TronCity guide
Coming from the north, go through Cambridge and Leamington, then turn onto Maungatautari Road. The domain is about 5km from the Cambridge town belt.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around the lake, and do they have to be on a lead?
Do they run guided tours at the museum?
The TronCity guide
Yes, guided tours and workshops are offered. They give deeper context on the region's history and cultural stories.
How busy does it get on wet school holiday days, and is Exscite worth the extra cost?
Where is the Hamilton Operatic Society office, and what's the phone number?
The TronCity guide
The office is at 59 Clarence Street, upstairs from the Clarence St Theatre offices. You can phone on 07 839 3082.
Is the office staffed in the day, or do you need to ring before dropping in?
Where do I park when visiting St Andrews Library?
The TronCity guide
Car parking is accessed from Taylor Terrace and Sandwich Road. The library is on the corner of Taylor Terrace and Braid Road, among the Braid Road shops.
Does the kids' area get noisy after school, or is it still okay for studying?
Is there somewhere for little kids to play while I have a coffee?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the Jukebox Diner has a fenced-off children's area with rides. Younger kids can play while you relax over a meal or a coffee.
Is it all under cover? Thinking of going on a wet day with the kids.
What days and times do the miniature trains run at Minogue Park?
The TronCity guide
The trains run every Sunday, weather permitting. Sessions are 10:30am to 12:00pm and 12:30pm to 3:00pm, so there is a half hour gap in the middle of the day.
Is the ride suitable for under-fives, or is it better for older kids?
Is the old Founders site worth a stop with kids yet, or is it all fenced off?
Is there a light show at the library at night?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Central Library has a nightly light show called Drift, by local artist Luke McConnell. It is worth a stop in the central city after dark.
Is it easy to find a quiet desk to study on a weekday afternoon?
Is ArtsPost in Hamilton open on public holidays?
The TronCity guide
No, ArtsPost is closed on public holidays and on Easter and Anzac weekends. Otherwise it opens Monday to Saturday, and on Sunday only after an exhibition opening that week.
Does anyone offer guided tours of the ArtsPost building or the exhibitions?
What languages are the Hamilton Gardens audio guides available in?
The TronCity guide
The audio guide is available in English and Chinese.
Is parking easy to find near the entrance on a weekend?
Is there a bus stop near SkyCity Hamilton?
The TronCity guide
Yes, buses stop near the Hamilton Transport Centre, a short walk from the casino. Taxis and rideshares are also easy to find around the CBD.
Is Bowl and Social okay for young kids, or does it turn adults only at night?
Does Clarence Street Theatre have a hearing loop for people with hearing impairments?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the theatre has a loop system that improves the listening experience for patrons with hearing impairments.
Is there any shelter between the Pak'n'Save car park and the theatre door when it rains?
What's the address of the Hamilton Workingmen's Club?
The TronCity guide
It's at 45 Commerce Street, Frankton, Hamilton 3204. You can reach the club on 07 847 6476.
How busy does the club get on a Friday or Saturday night, and is parking easy then?
How long does each exhibition run at ArtsPost before it changes?
The TronCity guide
Exhibitions typically run five to six weeks, so there's usually something new to see. The shows feature a range of media and themes from Waikato and other New Zealand artists.
Is ArtsPost worth a visit with primary school aged kids, or is it more for adults?
How far is the Gallagher Academy from central Hamilton?
The TronCity guide
It's about 5 to 6 km east of Hamilton city centre, on the University of Waikato campus. Public transport links the campus to central Hamilton.
Do the galleries have information panels or wall text explaining the artworks?
Is there parking at the Hamilton observatory?
The TronCity guide
Yes, you can park in the zoo carpark area off Brymer Road.
Is it easy to get around in a wheelchair on public nights?
Are there public toilets at Hamilton Lake Domain, and are any wheelchair accessible?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the domain has public toilets, including toilets with disabled access.
How busy does the loop get with walkers and prams on weekends, and is it easy to ride?
Where does the Edgecumbe Park Trail connect to other routes?
The TronCity guide
It links the Ferrybank river ride with the on-road cycle lanes on Ulster Street, so you can join it from either end.
Has anyone taken an e-bike along here? Is it fine on the path with walkers?
What was the Meteor building originally used for before it became a theatre?
The TronCity guide
It was built in 1900 as an aerated water bottling factory by C.L. Innes and Company of Waikato Breweries. Hamilton City Council bought it and turned it into a black box theatre in 1996.
Does anyone run tours of the building outside show times, or is it only open for events?
How long is the Te Awa River Ride that the Pukete loop links to?
The TronCity guide
The Te Awa River Ride is 65 km of concrete path, running from Ngaruawahia to Lake Karapiro along the Waikato River.
Is there anywhere to fill up a water bottle near the loop?
Is there somewhere near the path to pump up my bike tyres?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there's a service station nearby with a bike foot pump. It's available on request, so you'll need to ask at the counter.
Is the surface smooth all the way along, or are there rough or cracked patches?
Is there a tricky spot on Te Awa near Horotiu Bridge?
The TronCity guide
Yes. About 7.5 km in, Horotiu Bridge comes after a switchback with a 9% uphill, then a narrow left turn onto the narrow 50 m bridge. Take it slowly.
How easy is it to get a park at Hamilton Gardens on a weekend morning?
Are there toilets at Pukete Farm Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the park has toilets. There's also a drinking fountain and picnic tables, so it works fine for a longer ride or a picnic afterwards.
Has anyone ridden an e-bike round the loop? Any issues with the sand or clay bits?
Where does the Western Rail Trail start and finish?
The TronCity guide
It starts at Kahikatea Drive, runs around the west side of Lake Rotoroa and finishes at Ward Park and the central business district.
Is it easy to find parking near the Kahikatea Drive end of the trail?
How many public boat ramps are there on Lake Karāpiro?
The TronCity guide
There are five public boat ramps. The one at the mouth of the Little Waipa Stream is the pick, as it gives good access to the best fishing water in the upper lake.
Is the walk from the car to the water at Horahora Road easy, or is it a bit of a hike?
Where do I park for fishing at Forest Lake?
The TronCity guide
Use the large car park off Walsh Street, just south of the playground and the lake.
Are there toilets near the playground at Forest Lake, and are they open?
How big are the tench in Hamilton Lake?
The TronCity guide
Tench are common in Hamilton Lake and often reach 1 to 3 kg, so they are a popular target for bank anglers using coarse gear.
Are there public toilets near the lake, and are they usually open?
Are there any seats or benches near the bowl for parents to sit and watch?
Are there seats for parents to sit and watch the kids at Chedworth Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the park has benches, plus a playground, a mini skate bowl and walkways. Parents can sit and keep an eye on the kids.
Is there a pump track at Chedworth Park, or just the mini bowl?
Are there toilets at Lake Ngā Roto?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the reserve, along with rubbish bins and a free electric barbecue hotplate. There is no playground.
How far is the walk from the car park to a good spot on the bank for fishing?
Is there parking at Elliott Park?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Elliott Park has parking on site. You'll also find toilets, a playground, sports fields and the skatepark there.
Is there a working drinking tap near the skatepark, or do you need to bring your own water?
Is there drinking water at Fairfield Skatepark?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the skatepark refresh includes a new drinking fountain, along with more seating, a shade shelter and rubbish bins.
Is there a pump track at Fairfield Park, or just the skatepark?
Is there parking at Minogue Park near the BMX track?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Minogue Park has on-site parking, and there are toilets in the park as well. The BMX track is within the park, so you can park and walk across.
Are there any lights at the track if you ride after dark?
How can I check the river flow before fishing below Karāpiro Dam?
The TronCity guide
Ring 0800 820 082 for current Waikato River flows before you head down. It's worth checking first, as the Karāpiro Dam flows can change with power generation.
Where do people launch a boat to fish the stretch down to Cambridge?
Do I need a boat to fish the Waikato River in Hamilton?
The TronCity guide
No, the city reach can be fished from the bank. The stretches above Hamilton are the ones where you need a boat or a track to get access.
Is there parking close to the bank at Hammon Park or Ferrybank?
Can you bike to Malcolm Street Beach?
The TronCity guide
Yes. The beach is in Hammond Park, which is popular with bikers of all ages, so riding in is a normal way to get there.
Is it easy to find a park near the beach on a sunny weekend?
Is there a boat ramp at Manu Bay, and do people fish there?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Manu Bay has a boat ramp, and it's also a popular spot for fishing.
How easy is it to find a park at Manu Bay on a weekend when the surf is up?
Is there parking at Ngarunui Beach?
The TronCity guide
Yes. The main car park is sealed, and there is an upper car park with a staircase down to the beach as well.
Are there any showers to rinse off after a surf or swim?
Is there a walk I can do near Ruapuke Beach?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the Wairake Track to the summit of Mount Karioi starts at the end of Karioi Road, off Ruapuke Road. It's the shorter of the Karioi summit routes, so it pairs easily with a beach visit.
Is there room to park close to the beach at Ruapuke, or is it a bit of a walk in?
Where do I buy a boat ramp pass for Lake Puketirini?
The TronCity guide
A season pass is sold at the Huntly council office. Take your car and boat trailer registration numbers when you buy it.
Is there any shade near the water for a hot afternoon, or is it all open?
Is there a surf patrol near where the track reaches Ngarunui Beach?
The TronCity guide
Yes, the surf patrol operates about 200 m from where the track comes out onto the beach.
Does the car park fill up on sunny weekends, or is it easy to find a spot?
How do I find the way across the farmland past the top of Four Brothers Track?
The TronCity guide
Follow the white posts and orange markers along the main ridge to Old Mountain Road. That is the Karamū Walkway North, which starts where the Four Brothers Track ends.
Is the climb okay for young kids, or do they struggle with it?
Is the Karamū Walkway North a loop walk?
The TronCity guide
No, it's a point to point walk. You start along the Four Brothers Track, then follow the white posts and orange markers along the ridge across farmland to Old Mountain Road.
How muddy and slippery does the ridge get after rain?
Do I need to clean my shoes before walking the Hakarimata Rail Trail?
The TronCity guide
Yes. Scrub all soil off your shoes and gear, use the cleaning stations and always stay on the track, to help stop kauri disease spreading.
Is there much shade along the trail on a sunny afternoon?
Are there seats along the Mangakara Nature Walk?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there are seats located around the walk, so you can stop and rest along the way.
Is there a toilet at the Grey Road car park, or is it best to go before leaving?
Is there a shoe cleaning station at the start of the Waterworks Walk?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there's a cleaning station at the start of the track. Scrub all soil off your shoes and gear and stay on the track to help stop the spread of kauri dieback.
Does the waterfall run much better after a few days of rain?
Can I link Karamū Walkway South with other tracks for a longer walk?
The TronCity guide
Yes, it can be combined with Karamū Walkway North and the Four Brothers Track for one longer walk.
Is there much shade on the pasture sections, or is it fully exposed on a hot day?
Can I finish somewhere else instead of walking back the same way?
The TronCity guide
Yes. From the Ruapane Trig area you can take the Tirohanga Track to the Corcoran Road end instead of returning the way you came. That finishes away from the Waite Road car park.
How busy does the Waite Road car park get on weekends?
Do I need to clean my shoes before doing the Te Kauri Park walk?
The TronCity guide
Yes. Scrub all soil off your shoes and gear, use the cleaning stations, and always stay on the track to help protect the kauri from dieback.
How muddy does the track get after a few days of rain?
Where do I park for the Tirohanga Track?
The TronCity guide
Park at the end of Corcoran Road, which turns off Te Pahu Road about 5.6 km from the State Highway 39 turn-off, signposted for Pirongia Forest Park. The track starts from the Corcoran Road car park.
Is the Tirohanga Track shady on the way up or pretty exposed?
Is there a hut near the summit of Mount Pirongia?
The TronCity guide
Yes, Pāhautea Hut is where people overnight on the popular 17 km Tirohanga and Mahaukura round trip to the summit viewing tower. The loop takes 8 to 11 hours.
Are there toilets at the Grey Road car park?
How do I get to the Te Tapui track start from Morrinsville?
The TronCity guide
Piakonui Road is off Paratu Road, which leaves Morrinsville-Walton Road. The track is reached from the west side of the reserve on Piakonui Road.
Are there toilets at the car park on Piakonui Road?
Can I drink the tap water at Pāhautea Hut without treating it?
The TronCity guide
No, boil it first. The tap water at the hut isn't treated. Water is also hard to find on the high-level tracks, especially in summer, so carry enough drinking water with you.
Is it safe to leave a car overnight at the Kaniwhaniwha car park?
How far is Pāhautea Hut from Hihikiwi Lookout?
The TronCity guide
The hut is 800 m past the lookout, on an elevated boardwalk and steps the whole way. The summit is another 30 minutes on from the hut.
Is there much room to park at the start, or does it fill up on weekends?
Is Kakepuku a loop track or do you return the same way?
The TronCity guide
It's not a loop. You go up and come back down the same track, 7.2 km return.
Has anyone tried a pram on the old farm road part, or is it too rough?
Is there drinking water on the Karioi Track or should I bring my own?
The TronCity guide
Bring your own. Water is hard to find on the high-level tracks, especially in summer, so carry plenty of drinking water.
Does the car park at the start fill up on weekends?
Is the Wairake Track a loop or an out and back?
The TronCity guide
It's not a loop. You can walk back the same way, or cross the mountain by combining it with the Karioi Track, but you'll need to arrange transport from the other side.
Any really steep or slippery bits in the bush on the way up to the summit?
Is the Hapuakohe Walkway a loop, or do I need two cars?
The TronCity guide
No, it's a one way track of 23 km, with North Road at one end and Mangapiko Valley Road at the other. You'll need to arrange a drop-off and pick-up, especially at Ohinewai Road.
Are there any toilets at the North Road end or along the track?
How easy is the wharf and walkway with a wheelchair or pushchair?
Can I walk across the river from Huntly West to the town centre?
The TronCity guide
Yes. A footpath runs over the river beside the rail bridge, linking Huntly West near Parry Street with Venna Fry Lane and Main Street in the town centre.
How easy is the walk from the car to the water at the Waahi Stream outlet?
Where do I park when fishing at The Point in Ngāruawāhia?
The TronCity guide
Cars park along the riverbank on the Waipā side of Ngāruawāhia Domain. The grass banks where people fish are in the same domain.
How firm is the grass near the water for a wheelchair or pushchair?
Are there toilets at Jones' Landing on Lake Arapuni?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there's a toilet block at Jones' Landing. There's also a boat ramp, a jetty and a playground there.
Is there room to park close to the Arapuni bridge when fishing off it?
Are there toilets near the Kaniwhaniwha Stream?
The TronCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the picnic and campsite a short distance off the Nikau Walk track, which starts at the Kaniwhaniwha car park and follows the stream.
Is the stream bank near the road manageable for someone in a wheelchair?
Nothing here right now.