360 degree views

On a clear day you can get 360 degree views across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty from the summit of Mount Te Aroha.  You might also be lucky and see Mts Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Taranaki.  I think these views alone are reward enough for sweating and puffing your way the 939 meters mountain surrounded in native bush. 

This walk is one of my favourites.  I walk it when I need free head space to let my mind wonder and have a good work-out.  There is something very special about walking in the bush – it seems to restore my soul (if there is such a thing) and bring a sense of peacefulness to both body and mind.  

Where to start?

You start the walk in the Te Aroha Domain next to the Mokena Geyser.  They (DOC, Department of Conservation) suggest 45 minutes to the Whakapipi Lookout which offers views over the Hauraki Plans.  This lookout is a great opportunity to stop, catch your breath, quench your thirst, and take in the views before the real climbing begins. DOC suggest is it another couple of hours or less to the summit.  After the lookout the track becomes quite steep and the surface is described as “rough”.

This track ascends almost 1 km. Not always on a smooth structured track; you are often walking over tree roots; scrambling over large boulders or slogging your way up steps made from the half round post. But by letting your mind wonder, or being mindful these obstacles seem trivial. (Yeh right!!)

The Summit

You can return to Te Aroha via the same track (most direct route). There are other route options displayed at the summit. I used to walk down the road and across the ridges back to The Domain before I got new knees, but now I go slowly down the most direct route. It takes me as long to go down and it does to climb up!! Better to be safe than quick is my theory.

If you are feeling tired and need a little pampering why not have a soak in either of the hot tubs or slipper baths at Te Aroha Mineral Spas .

When’s a good time to walk to the summit?

Any time of the year, but may I suggest you do this walk when there has been several days of fine weather, otherwise under foot is inclined to be slippery!  We don’t want any injuries.

Be aware you may experience alpine conditions on the summit. Ensure you take the appropriate clothing as it can be extremely windy, wet and cold.

Remember to take plenty of water and food; a good excuse to stop for a snack, to catch your breath and enjoy the bush.

There are a number of other walks based around the base of Mt Te Aroha, check out the Department of Conservation website: other walks.

Your feedback: How do you restore your well being? Where is your special place or what is your favourite activity? I’d love to hear your story.

Be safe out there and enjoy our natural environment. Until next time, Goldcard gal! 🙂