Reviews of Hakarimata Summit Hiking Track. (Other) in Ngāruawāhia (Waikato).

Hakarimata Summit Hiking Track

1347 Reviews

407 Comments

Other

Hiking area

Tourist attraction

2 Brownlee Avenue, Ngāruawāhia 3720, New Zealand

Description

Information of Hakarimata Summit Hiking Track, Other in Ngāruawāhia (Waikato)

Here you can see the location, open hours, popular times, contact, photos and real reviews done by the users.

This place has good reviews, this means that they treat their customers well and you’ll feel great with their services, recommended 100%!

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Open hours of Hakarimata Summit Hiking Track

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Reviews of Hakarimata Summit Hiking Track

A. J.

Stairs to most of the hike. Classic ascend to get up and a easy descend. Don’t give up till you get up there. 1.5hr-2hr return with stops. Awesome quotes at stairs will keep you going.

M. p.

The infamous stairs. A small waterfall at the start of the track and spectacular views from the summit. Although most of the track offers shade, I do recommend taking water along on a sunny day. People with reasonable fitness will find this as a decent workout.

R. S.

It's a gruelling hike if you aren't an experienced hiker. Around 600 steps I seriously felt like giving up. I'm so glad I didn't though. The view from the top is beautiful. However, even more than that, the sense of achievement is truly worth it. The track is well maintained and feels safe. It took me 3.5 hours with a lot of breaks along the way. On a hot day walking under the trees is a welcome respite. The markers for each hundred steps and the inspirational quotes are a really nice touch. However, frustratingly, there is no tap on top to get a drink from. It is sorely needed, because a lot of people deplete their water on the way up. Although, I do understand that logistically that would probably be a difficult thing to set up. Kudos to the mums doing the climb with babies hanging in front. Left me awestruck 🤯

L. H.

There are total 1,349 steps Brownlee Avenue to the summit based on the description from DoC. Be sure you have enough water in sunny day.

K. S.

Awesome, amazing experience walking up to the summit and conquering 1349 steps one way. Highly recommended. I was so impressed with how clean the toilets were before the trail begins.

N. V.

A challenging hike perfect for challenging yourself this new year! Stairs and tracks were well-maintained, and absolutely appreciated the encouraging quotes as well. The summit offered great views, although I would definitely recommend coming a lot earlier so the sun isn't too harsh creating glares of the view. Nonetheless, really great! Would I do this again? Let's go!

K. D.

A fantastic walking track with a bit of everything. Lots of native birds present. Its not a track for the faint of heart if embarking from ngaruahia as it involves climbing over 1300 steps but it's worth the sense of accomplishment. Views are interesting if u know the area. Very well maintained. Make sure not to litter and wash shoes well to keep this lovely walk the way it is

M.

If you want to build that quads and glutes, look no further

A. R.

Not for the faint hearted, or the asthmatic without their inhaler! Can be pretty busy, but people are usually courteous, as the path/stairs aren't wide. Worth the effort for the view on a clear day

M. L.

A steep challenging track long enough for those wanting a good hike, short enough for those wanting a quick hard core training session. I wouldn't recommend for those with knee or ankle issues.

L.

It was my first time climbing these mountain ranges and it was no easy task but I climbed at my own pace and I was determined to reach the top. It took me a decent two hours to get to the top and then back down again with plenty of breaks on the way. The view was lovely at the summit and a great incentive to push myself to keep going!

A. K.

It’s the most popular track I have ever seen so far. So many Kiwis come here for a fun filled nature inspired cardio! I saw old and young and younger - babies carried by father or mother for the vertical challenge. 1345 steps can converted to 96 stories high, more or less, according to my iPhone health app. I also love those small motivational signage. Be there and see your fat crying!

T. S.

The Ngaruawahia Hakarimata Summit track is a very popular walk for everyone. The summit tower is 374 metres above sea level but from the car park you will ascend around 334 metres. The first 850 m through the bush follows a stream to an old dam and waterfall. From here the gradient of the steps increases markedly for the remaining 1.1 km to the summit tower. The track is wonderfully maintained and there is plenty to see under the bush canopy and you are out of the sun. There is a seat at the 'halfway to the summit' sign. This is actually about two thirds of the way to the top if you are counting steps. Another seat is at the 3/4 mark with great views to the south east. At the top is the summit tower with expansive views of the Waikato. On a clear Winters day you can see the snow capped Mt Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe. Sunrises are beautiful up there. This is a very popular track so pick your times and enjoy with others on your journey.

K.

Very popular on full sunny days ☀️ if you are looking for a challenge of going up over 600 staircases, and you love bushes and outdoors, then this place is for you! The view at the summit is ok, but I’ve seen better. Still, it feels rewarding to get up there and watch Hamilton from the top. It says 1,5 hours to get up but I took 45min. And I don’t have big thighs like others have aye! 😂

A. W.

Quicker walk than I thought it was, based on the given time. Steep but not as steep as the stairs, going up on the southern side. Recommend seeing the cascades off Waingaro road. Not sure which is tougher, going up the stairs or going down! Legs were jelly. Worth it for the view from the top.

D. D.

Did it after a real gullywasher and it was still quite nice. The view... not so much super foggy. Over 1400 stairs from start to summit. Did a total of 8481 steps to reach the top and back.

R. “. S.

Gotta love the fresh air a beautiful day great company and a morning challenge to start our Sunday. Both of us aren't the incline type but we surely gave it a good go. Actually we smashed it and we.had so much fun concurring this challenge together. It's a great walk for all ages, shapes and sizes it's all.up to you whether your ready for the challenge or not. I highly recommend it and seriously there's no rush to get.to the summit so enjoy the.journey and being within the beauty of mother nature. Enjoy the summit and don't forget ya water, sounds and a snack🤣🤣🤣

P. F.

I am an unfit over weight Polynesian female that had this challenge on the to-do list. What was I 🤔. Not knowing what I was in for I entered the summit track....2000 steps to the top. Egads! The friends I entered with raced to the top, I on the other hand struggled immensely but not one for quitting I made it to the top...what a feeling! Then took the trail track back another 2hrs round trip coming out ngaruawahia road, in total 3hr hike. I think the sign says 4hrs so happy with the completion time...I will attempt this again in the near future.

L. S.

Tough hike but worth the views and satisfaction of saying you’ve done it! 💪 Lots and lots of stairs. Motivational quotes along the way help remind you to smile. I’m reasonably fit and it took me 1.5hrs round trip with a few photo breaks. Bring water, no facilities on the trail.

M. L.

I cannot begin to describe the unfathomable turmoil I had experienced in each second while ascending the stairs to my doom. Or were the stairs doom themselves? Either way, I knew it wasn't long before my knees would give out, and I would resign myself to the fate of a struck dove, flailing on the Hakarimata steps as my life bled like the black, smoldering drops of the last snatches of evening. The walk was vry har dfor me and i had to go up on all fors lik a dog

M.

Beautiful bush with a well maintained track and steps. Very busy in the weekend with lots of people running up and down purely as a fitness track. Nicer to go during the week I feel.

A. J.

Been up here so many times and I still love it every time! This is not an easy walk! Excellent after work walk up to the summit for a gorgeous view. Also glow worms just before you start going up the stairs if you're keen to go at night

K. T.

Love my local training ground! Those stairs are always a great challenge and others on the track are often friendly and supportive.

M. G.

A great workout track in a beautiful natural environment. The Bush is well sign posted and instructions are very clear. I would recommend to others wanting to enjoy the great outdoors or walk, hike or jog.

D. W.

It's a grueling hike up to the top but we'll worth the effort. The views from the summit are amazing.

F. R.

Loved going here. Super challenging but the steps were worth it. I'm pretty slow so took me 40 minutes to get up to the top. And you find little gems like the quotes shown here 😊

M. K.

Interesting hiking trail, seems easy at the beginning and gets hard as you go up. There are around 1200 stairs to climb and takes around 2h to go back and forth. We went with 4 children aged 2 to 7. The smallest one we need to carry most of the time and without proper carrier it makes it even harder. Definitely not for the unfit. There is a small waterfall on the way where we can refresh our tiring legs, worth stopping for a quick rest on the way back. View from the top is amazing and you can see almost 360 degrees. Will try again soon.

R. C.

So many stairs 😄😄😄😄😄😄😄😄😄😄🙆🙆🙆🙆🙆🙆🙆🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈 If you are normal, count three hours to go up 😄 But it's so worth it 🌱💧🙏❤️ There is a sign halfway, saying you're halfway... Just FYI if you're wondering "is it still far?" Until you've seen that sign... Yep pretty far!! 😄

N. P.

Amazing view from the top.... Worth climbing up there

J. C.

Great walk. More for intermediate-Advanced walkers as it's quite steep. Great views, worth the walk.

J. A.

Love love love. A great place to break a sweat. Challenging and rewarding.

S. H.

Used solely for fitness routine, love the constant shade as the surrounding bush works with you👌 anytime of the day is not a problem when climbing up in that sense, perfect👍

C. L.

Worth it don't give up.

N. S.

Not an easy walk but well looked after walk up to lookouts.

D.

Monday 8 October 2018 - finally made it up here wif Henry Makene, 1349 steps, not that bad once you get into it. Good work out for my new boots. Amazing views of Waikato from the top.

A. H.

I went up the Summit Track. Beautiful hike but you'll want the glutes and quads to march up those stairs. This section of trail is very well maintained. It's not particularly wide and it's an out-and-back trail. Try to be considerate of the two way traffic, the runners will really appreciate that. There's a sign and a spot to sit down at the halfway point. Nice view from here. It was cloudy at the top with zero visibility, check the weather before you head up if you're looking for that killer view. On my way back I decided to follow the Walkway Trail from the summit to Waingaro Road. This is the southern leg of the Walkway. It's an intermediate trail so don't expect the gravel path of the Summit trail. There are not really any grand views but I enjoyed the hike. just the sounds of nature until you get closer to the road. At the end there is a nice cascading waterfall and a bathroom five minutes past that. It's an easy flat walk all the way back to the Hakarimata Scenic Reserve parking area.

M. S.

Such a beautiful walk and challenging too

B. A.

Fantastic walk, beautiful scenery and spectacular view once you hit the top. A must do! But beware those steps are hard work :-P

C. S.

Fantastic track equally for exercise fanatics or parents who just want to get their kids out of the house. Over nicely prepared steps it takes you up to a big viewing platform where your efforts will be rewarded with a great view all over the greater Hamilton area and where you can catch a glimpse of Mt.Ruapehu. The sometimes very busy track also brings in a nice social aspect as you come across a lot of like minded people with who you can have a chat and a laugh. Any entrepreneur opening a cafe at the car park will dig into a gold mine!

G. S.

One of the best short walks close to Hamilton. A little challenging but great for your fitness.

M. S.

Not for the faint-hearted lots of stairs great views wonderful scenery.

S. B.

Well maintained track, lots of stairs. It is busy quite a lot of the time. Halfway up is a good 30min walk up or if your really keen can walk all the way to the summit. Track mainly gravel.

S.

Brilliant walk - but not for the faint-hearted! Awesome scenery.

N. D.

Very scenic walk, makes for great exercise.

B. W.

ZzSuper track, easy to reach and well signposted, lots of steps, you need a bit of fitness, some steps vary in height so I found the odd problem with knees especially coming down. Well worth the effort and meet some nice trappers. View top terrific. Pic is off the dam near the start...Happy stepping.

M. D.

Such a great workout, challenging & unrelenting but so rewarding when you get to the top and see the view.

N. R.

Need to be fairly fit! Worth the climb and get good sense of achievement.

S.

absolute good place to go.

T. S.

A great scenic hike and very close to town. It's really cool to see a lot of locals using the hike and the challenging stairs regularly, creating quite a vibrant experience. The track is also very well maintained. I would definitely recommend giving it a go if you're in the area!

N. K.

A different way to approach the summit and fewer walkers to. There's a little waterfall too for a summer dip. Around 90 minutes to the summit. If you're not good on steep inclines and rough tracks, go up the main stairs

N. T.

Easy walk especially for someone like me who can't do anything with hills.

L. T.

Picturesque place with a small waterfall, many people enjoy running and walking here. Cute ducks in a serene tiny pond do not afraid of you and come really close 🌲🌳🌴🌿🦆🦆🦆

D. M.

So many steps, and beyond the steps so many tree roots. Track beyond the summit is not well maintained, but some lovely Nikau groves and views of the Waikato all the same. Take sturdy shoes.

S. W.

The challenge of the steps. 1349, approximately 90 flights to the summit. I love the Haks, everyone you meet on the steps is encouraging... what fabulous camaraderie as we all venture to the summit for the spectacular view.

J. W.

Great walk, epic views, and an all round awesome outing. A great challenge for all ages and abilities.

A. S.

We can consider it as a best place for hiking near to hamilton.

J.

The hukks is good. Glow worms are nice during the summer as well.

J. K.

One of my favourite exercise activities. Try to avoid the peak at 4:30pm-6:30pm weekdays if you want space to get up and down

S. B.

My other home away from home. When i need to connect with nature and get a really good workout

g. b.

Best leg workout ever Highly recommend

m.

nice walking track

C. W.

Not for the faint hearted. Beautiful climb if you can manage it.

J. A.

Beautiful shaded walk, steep and lots of stairs but totally worth it.

S. K.

Hard work if you're a newbie trying to get to the summit with sub-par fitness but it's absolutely worth the trek up on a beautiful day.

N. W.

A killer on the legs. If you want a light nature walk this is not the trail to walk. It is ultra steep and just stair after stair after the first short walking part. But a great workout. If your fit it's about 35 mins to get to the top.

M.

So challenge! It was a great experience! You have no idea how many step it has! Great view after the hiking!

J. W.

100% awesome for fitness.

D. W.

Good exercise. Lots of steps. No good for sore knees. Kids that love walking will do it easy but other kids will hate it. Great views from summit makes it very rewarding.

S. J.

Perfect for a quick cardio plus legs workout. Beautifully maintained steps and breathtaking views

J. P.

It is a beautiful track, spoilt though by an excessive amount of joggers using it to train, it was very hard to take in the sound of the birds and enjoy the scenery as the track was narrow and you had to keep moving to the edge to make way for joggers. Lovely place.

D. L.

Awesome views and nice walks

L. Q.

Hard challenging track, fantastic view

T. M. B. D.

Best walk in my life😇🥰😍

H.

Great workout!

H. R.

If you are in the mood to walk up a gazillion stairs then this is the place for you. Worthy views throughout with a couple of waterfalls in between.

N. G.

Great view...up the top. LOTS of stairs to get there though.

C. S.

A well built pathway of pain to a great view of Ngāruawāhia. Though the sporadically placed signs of inspiration had a taunting effect on myself, I think it's a nice touch to the track. This track is about 80% stairs with some short bursts of flat terrain in between. A good way to stay in shape or get in shape, lovely scenery, clearly visable and legible signs, a bench at halfway and 3/4 mark's to the top and smaller side tracks to neat locations like a waterfall closer to the bottom. There is a carpark at the bottom with public toilets and a drinking fountain, which if you forget a drink bottle like me are a God-send. Definately recomend this track, though keep in mind it is popular and foot traffic can get quite busy.

s. a.

Beautiful place for hiking only 20min from Hamilton.

B. L.

Good exercise busy have to get there early amazing veiws at the summit

s.

About 1300 steps. But well worth the view.

S.

Great walk and views from the top. Also a special place to take the children, up to the damn just after sunset, a brilliant display of glow-worms makes for a magical walk back down in the dark.

J.

Nice experience must do at least once

V.

Hard slog up lots of stairs...worth it for the view though!

S.

Very nice walk and view. Be prepared with water. Very steep at places and a decent level of fitness is recommended.

Z.

Awesome tramp during the off peak hrs. Quite challenging but worth the effort. Definitely gets the heart racing

J.

Love this track! It's definitely a challenge if strength and endurance to get to the summit but a great achievement when reached.

A.

A great walk on a very well maintained path/staircase! Worth the sweat for the view from the lookout. Lovely to see so many different people walking and running the route.

J. F.

it not the mountain we conquer but ourselves ,it challenging but I like it

T.

Loved it. Gets steep and the trek has places to stop. There are toilets and good parking and also a place to fill water bottles.

M.

Excellent challenge.. Well recommended

J.

I visit weekly and love it! The exercise and outdoor environment is like to other. It keeps me going back again and again.

R. M.

One of my favourite places to go, its definately a challenge but those who go regularly are friendly and encouraging, and its a great work out with beautiful views

J. O.

Great views. Well kept trail. Great training.

L. S. L.

Just like many hikes in NZ , this hikes does not disappoint and provides oneself with the joy of enjoying NZ greenery and crisp air. The hike begins quite tame with an easy 30 minute walk to the dam, but go past that, one would get into a daunting 1 hour 30 minutes stair climb to the summit which is 300m above sea level. This hike is not for the faint of heart and it is a very viable test of cardiovascular fitness. Do not be discouraged, there are motivational quotes along the way.

S. C.

Beautiful natural bush walk. You can take younger kids on a short walk to the dam or try your luck to the top! Just be careful of the runners and the slippery steps

L. R.

On one of the many flights of stairs that make up this trail, there is a sign that reads: "sweat is just fat crying". Your fat WILL be crying on this trek! But the view across the Waikato is worth the quad pain the next day.

A. W.

Beautiful way to get some exercise and nature at once

R. S.

This hike is amazing for it's challenge and it's popularity. There are people on it every day at every time of day of every shape and size and no doubt every ethnicity and religion. It's a good hour to hour and a half exercise although some run it much more quickly.

J. S.

Went on a night hike and was able to find some glow worms 😊

D.

Such a great walk! Good challenge for the lungs and legs and just the right hieght for an hours return trip.

M.

Good fun awesome views!

J. O.

What a run. Wish I didn’t waste all my energy on the first half. Found the half way mark and thought it was a joke. Found out that it was only half way and there was no humour involved. It’s just lots of steps up from then onwards. Good luck. Good walk and definitely a challenge. My cousin has too much pride and made it up in 21.40 min . He didn’t want to wait as it was my first time. I got lost for a good 7 min and got up in 30min. See you next time.

A. Y.

nice hiking location. quite crowded though

V. S.

Very good place for hiking

Y.

Nice walk.

P. K.

A beautiful piece of NZ bush tied into an intense physical workout if you want. 1400 stairs and the view is great. Once is never enough if you are training.

M.

Great walk through the bush and the view from the top is magnificent.

N.

Ask me to review it later, Google. I haven't recovered

L. C.

Amazing place. Good to go and take exercise

R.

A great walk uphill to even better views. Can get a bit busy.

A.

A hard training tramp. 1400 steps up and across the top and about the same number down before a walk along a flat track back towards the start, then 2k along the road. best to leave a car at each end

T.

when I was fit, my fastest was 17 mins up, hby?

G. E.

Fantastic walk. Great for fitness, but the track is mostly narrow steps so there can be a lot of stops to let people pass if it is busy. Nice bush with a great view at the top.

y. v. z.

So much fun but lots of stairs

J.

Love the Huks, well maintained

I. M.

A vigorous walk, 1349 steps. But worth it. Not as hard as you might think. The walk is through the bush, so quite sheltered.

D. H.

Great workout, but so busy now days. I prefer travelling the extra distance to the Parker rd end, it's not quite as many steps but it has a nice loop that you can do a few laps of to make up the difference.

V. B.

A really good challenge for those who want to improve fitness and enjoy the awesome view, which is different every time you go!

D. D.

A very worthwhile walk. Well looked after and very pretty and awesome walking through the bush. Great look out when you get to the top. We'll definitely do it again.

C.

Good walk. A good test of thighs and cardio but 1,349 steps really isn't as bad as it sounds. Quite a nice view at the top and other walks as well.

d. g.

Just Do It... Or not... But you should... But don't tell yourself that... because then you might feel guilty for not... if you aren't...

C. J. V. d. W.

Good walk. A good test of thighs and cardio but 1,349 steps really isn't as bad as it sounds. Quite a nice view at the top and other walks as well.

P. G.

I do this a couple of times a week, a very well maintained track, with a good vibe. 1,300+ steps, so commitment is required

M. B.

Great workout climbing all those stairs! If you're lucky, the sun might come out and burn off the fog. If it does, you'll be treated to wonderful views.

C. B.

Good hard workout. Normally around a hour with great view.

M. S.

Demanding track but very nice.

a.

awesome. really scenic. the stairs are a challenge but a great activity.

G. O.

Did the short walk to the old dam and it was beautiful. Not too many stairs.

S. R.

A beautiful and challenging track that follows a rocky bottomed stream to a waterfall. The climb to the lookout is around 1500 stairs on a safe metalled track under a cool forest canopy. Well worth the climb. Recommend good shoes and a water bottle 😊

M.

Great walk with awesome views at the top.

K. T. A. A.

Great walk, some small areas needing a bit of extra effort but the effort is well worth it as the view is to die for at the tippy top, if you don't want to put in the xtra effort to the top then just going up to the Dam is rewarding in itself. If your into a few hours of serious hiking you can hike all the way along the Hakairimatas and come out into the beautiful valley halfway to Huntly but make sure your prepared and have a ride to pick u up at the other end.

S.

This is a really lovely place to visit & feel challenged walking up to the spectacular views of the Waikato

B.

Always full of Awesomeness

d. t.

Climbing the Hakarimata track is never a breeze for me. I observe the gazelles who prance past me , bounding up the steps effortlessly and wonder how they do it . Whether you are a wheezing all the way, hands on hips, hoping the top is just around the next bend type climber or a supreme athlete, the important thing is - you are doing it....pat yourself on the back

A.

A good challenge for someone getting into fitness or getting back into it.

F. D.

It took about an hour and a half for a round trip, taking it pretty slow. You don't need hiking boots, but I would recomend wearing something sturdy on your feed. Once at the top, you can see all of Hamilton, and Ngaruawahia. I went at night (you need a touch or headlamp as the tree canopy cuts out any natural moon light). This brought two cool things worth noting: one, at the look out, it is clear, high, and free from light polution, making it a great place for stargazing; and two, the there are glow worms along the banks of the lower part of the track!

E.

Great exercise, wonderful view, got to work for it.

A.

Nice for a day out. Take your waking shoes and water.

T. T.

I have not been up there since I was a teen no steps just a track. My friends and I took our bikes up there to the rooster tree. My 9year old has though all the way to the tower.

B. W.

Excellent fitness training, stairs all the way - more than the sky tower!

A. A.

An honest review - from a not so mega fit person. Stairs - a lot of stairs! 1344 to be exact. Doc marks it as an easy walk but be mindful it is mostly steps, steps and more steps. Good view when you are at the top if its a clear day Your thighs and calves will hurt trust me haha bring water!!!!!!!!

M. O.

Beautiful. Well kept track. The locals help with maintenance too. Really safe and a fun day out with the kids if you hit the kauri trail too.

f. h.

Worth the walk. Done this one afew times so far will do it again. Best view of most of the waikato. It's must do. If you like outdoor tramps

G. S.

A very good place for exercise with challenging track. There are several encouraging proverbs along the track as long as you wanna give up.

C.

Nice walk under tree canopy. 90% steps

S. M.

Loved the view!! Careful when parking your car, some people car window got smashed and a truck got stolen from the carpark. Dont leave your valuables in the car, take it with you.

N.

Clean, well equipped toilets. Great place to call in for mid bike ride stop.

T.

Very good workout climbing the thousand or more stairs, great view at the top

J.

Epic steep step climb. Amazing scenery and forest.

D. P.

Awesome hike, good for an average level of fitness. Beautiful views at the top!

C. C.

Excellent place to visit. There is the summit walk with many steps (roughly 40 to 50 minutes steady step walking to top, 20 minutes down). There are encouraging signs all the way up and a lookout at the top. There is also a much shorter track to visit the old waterworks. To reach either track you walk through several hundred metres of bush first, along a stream. If you go when it is dusk/dark you can see hundreds of glow worms along the stream bank!

a. b.

Awesome challenging walk with a wicked view at the top

A. S.

Hakarimata is a well maintained track, it is challenging and consists mostly of steps. It can be rather narrow at a few points. You will pass Waterfalls, streams, lush native bush and finish at a panoramic viewing platform at the top.

P.

Short, sweet walk with some good mates and it is such a great time

N.

A great workout with a view at the top that makes it all worth it

D.

Beautiful walks. Reccomend 100%

F.

Great walk up very popular walking track, and great view over the waikato

I.

Go to plc for fitness. Lessgo

R. B.

Always a great walk or run, which ever you prefer. suitable for any one of any fitness level

M.

Great track in good condition. Tree cover all the way so perfect on a hot day

i. d.

A good place for training since it's very challenging going up the trail and the weather is also nice and cool up there. I would recommend it to everyone I know to go for it.

W.

Its a good walk and its not to long. Be warned that there are a lot of stairs

D.

Great but tough climb up the steps to the summit. Not for the unfit!

E. R.

No excuses not to go. All steps and very steep, great for a work out or morning routine ;) Dogs are not allowed.

j. j.

Quite a busy walk but great for a hard short run or challenging track. You will enjoy if you like steps.....lots of steps haha

R. G.

Great walk the view at the top is amazing:) lots of people on the track though so be prepared to make space in the narrower places

N.

Great beginner tramp, beautiful rewarding view when you get to the top.

H.

Despite the rain we found the trail really enjoyable

A. N.

Great hike for the fitness gurus! Lovely scenery from the top and throughout the walk (or run😉). Would definitely recommend!

D. S.

Great trek. Signage could be better at the southern most Waingaro Road exit as it was unclear where to go to get back to the car park.

C.

Good way to keep fit and amazing views from the top on a clear day

S.

Climbing the waterfall was an interesting experience wish I could have made it to the source

B.

...a good body workout rewarded by awesome views once you reach the summit.

P. A.

Great walk up to the Hakarimata ridge, with an excellent view over the Waikato. Lush bush and a well maintained set of steps and track. It is really steep though!

R.

Great view at the top, cool motivational quotes can be found on the stairs as u make ur way up

홍.

I really love this place. Always enjoying rain or shine.👍👍😄

E.

Good for trekking and running. The view from the top worth an effort!

r.

Have been up a few times pretty painfull for this guy😂😂😂 but well worth it once u get to the top.Have a go if you've never been up

c. t.

It's an awesome hiking track

C. R.

A challenging walk the first time but gets easier each time you go. Great views from the top.

C. W.

Love this place and wish there were more nationwide & locally. The steps allow you to get up under the canopy of beautiful native flora and it beats a stepper in a gym hands down. The quiet is great for mental health. Be warned the steps are not for the light hearted though. Thanks to the community for allowing this to be built and as soon as I'm fit enough Ill help carry some gravel up to contribute to its upkeep.

t. T.

The track is well maintained,this place is so busy! Fitness freaks central 😆 I like to call it the most popular free punishment in waikato

P.

Lots of stairs! And lovely bush surroundings. A great workout.

K. M.

A great way to keep fit

M. A.

Highly recommended for morning training but it's very difficult. The amount of stairs that you are climbing is huge but when you reach the top it's rewarding. I've been going every week to improve my fitness and stamina.

L.

Great hiking track just outside of Auckland and Hamilton ... challenging enough for experienced hikers but easy enough for first timers ... good fun :)

A.

I've always really enjoyed going up the stairs! It's becoming really popular!

D.

Always spiritual being surrounded by such beautiful nature.

L.

From start to finish a truly awesome place to walk and the view from the top beautiful

B. G.

Amazing glowworms right off the side of the path! Great place to get photos of these luminous creatures

C. R.

Great walk I do twice a week. Can now do it in under 16 minutes to the top from the start of the stairs.

W.

The best exercise ever!! It's beautiful and effective 🙂

C.

Stunning and soul cleansing walk up the trail

a. k.

Good place for hiking.Highly recommend during summer vacation. You can see glow warms during the night time.

r.

Good walk today. Lots of new faces. Few parents with young kids as well. Awesome weather to walk up top.

B. P.

absolutely gorgeous views, well earned by enduring a mostly verticle hike up. Path is well kept, and it's pretty much stairs the whole way. Path is shared by those travelling up and down, so be curtious to those trying to pass as it can get busy.

C.

Catch your breath between 600 and 700, as 700-1100 will be tough going

송.

quite nice hiking range with shade on the most of the course. four ways to up to the summit.

C. M. T.

Lots and lots of stairs! Pitch in and give a hand with track maintenance by carrying up a sack of metal. Beautiful native forest. Stunning views from the top.

R. P.

A lot more of a hike than you'd expect for the kms, but well worth the mahi - be prepared to bring water and walk up A LOT of steps!!

W.

Tough set stairs to climb 1300 in total great for all fitness levels. Epic views!

D. M.

Great way to get the blood pumping and the the lungs clear. Fairly intense so if you're just starting to get in shape go in the morning especially in these warmer months. Most people are friendly and full of encouragement along the way yet if you are taking little ones "some" of the runners seem to think they own the track and don't care about other users

H. S.

Really good way to get fit for most fitness levels, though for someone who doesn't exercise much, half way is quite an accomplishment!

L.

The lookout has epic views and the stairs will keep you fit!!

Y.

Great Adventure place near from Hamilton city

N.

Nice hike

D.

Fantastic. Love the challenge Ian 72yrs old and still beat the steps. Feels good.

R.

climb 1400 steps to see the beauty from top. must do at least once.

G. M.

If you don't wanna skip leg day then climb the huks it's a good workout and great view

O.

Great experience, very polite people, covid tracking QR code, toilets and water source.

V. H.

Great track. Safe and well maintained . Great view at the top.

M. S.

7.5 hours worth of fun. Bring sturdy shoes. Prepare for dirt and dampness. Lots of roots and unprepared track. We walked form Parker road all the way to far end. I would recommend going they other way as the far end is all in the sun. Do that in the morning. Have fun!

C. S.

Best gym in the waikato. Free entry, go at your own pace, gaurunteed to make ya sweat. The views are worth the effort

A.

Awesome experience, great exercise, natural wonder so close to Hamilton

M. N.

Amazing track with stairway to heaven. About 1600 steps stair built to reach summit. Walk across many small streams, best after rainy days. Good view from summit view tower

L. H.

Jeepers this was hard, 1350 steps up but in beautiful surroundings. Thoroughly recommend this for the views and the fitness

T.

Great challenge for fitness and beautiful place!

M.

1300+ steps of uphill trek, and the 360° view of Ngaruawahia from the summit tower.... Absolutely worth it

U.

Not easy to reach the top, but certainly worth the try.

S.

The best place to workout climbing a hill near Hamilton. Ample space on the top to rest. Its a gruelling track if you havent done something similar, so be prepared. Taking some water is advisable.

A. B.

Well maintained track of steps, though lovely native bush and up to a great view from the top. Very popular, with good reason.

S.

Lots of trees, lots of shade. Really nice place to go for a run.

L.

Great track to do on the weekend. 3/4 is abit of a killer. But love it.

G.

Serene, yet there are also lots of people in a hurry. Slow down & enjoy the scenery.

C.

Lots of stairs, amazing view. Seriously puffed at the end.

r.

Great time., Good grade well maintained. , perfect day. Highly recommend it.

l.

Awesome hike! I can only say that because I have done it.

H.

Beautiful, breathtaking hehehe 😂 😂 😂 loved it. One of my favourites

J.

This is a good walk can be a bit of a chanellage but does not talk to long 2 hours at the most up and down even for non fit people

G.

Such a great challenge and beautiful walk through the bush

J.

Good view. Challenging walk

G.

More steps than you expect but worth it for the exercise and the view from the summit.

J. T.

Prepare yourself for a good workout up those stairs. You will be well rewarded with a spectacular view from the top and even good views from the half way rest point. A very popular attraction for locals, so be warned if you want a more private hike in nature. Good for those who don't mind a little company. Some good trails available from this location. A quick trip up to the hidden waterfall for some meditation. A longer trip up to the summit view point for those who enjoy a bit of a challenge. As well as connections to several longer tracks across the Hakarimata Ranges for those seeking a day long escape. Decent amount of parking available as well toilet facilities.

d.

Highly recommend for a walk or fitness

N.

This track is great. A great place to run; as long as there is not too many people

d.

Great feeling amongst nature and exlirating getting to the top of summit

H. O.

Good workout for all ages. Just one step after the other and a wonderful view over the Waikato on reaching the top.

b.

Track is quite thin in some places so you can't walk side by side. The scenery is great and the track is busy with people.

a. j.

Fantastic hike, certainly gets the heart pumping. Great mix of Kiwis and tourists.

B.

An awesome hike, approx 1300 steps to the summit. The first section of the track as far as the waterfall is suitable for the unfit and has heaps of glow worms at night.

O. C.

Nice track but watch for peak times or you will have to be letting people past you every couple of minutes.

M.

Awesome track, good fitness challenge. Very popular. Nice carpark and Toilet facilities.

T.

Beautiful track and always with many enthusiastic and caring people.

L.

Great track. Lots of stairs and well looked after. Track users are friendly and supportive.

P.

Great walk, really supportice people on the track, can be rather crowded.

T.

Good leg work out, awesome view

L.

Beautiful reserve, definitely recommend the Hakarimata Walkway, North to South.

M.

First time up track great to achieve pretty sore on body afterwards real good work out nice fresh air

R.

Pretty intense 1300 steps, burn a bit of energy

R.

I am in love with place. I go there at least 2 days a week. Beautiful amd great track.

J. S.

Awesome sights and nature and really enjoyed getting an awesome work with those stairs🌞

l. v.

The fast, the slow. It does not matter as long as you get to the top.

T.

Beautiful place!

D.

Awesome exercise well worth the view 😉

M. C.

We did a nice little loop by leaving our bikes locked up at the Waiangaro Road end. We then drove to the waterworks track and walked over to our bikes. Then we cycled the rail trail and the road back to our car. But not before stopping at the dairy for an ice cream!

C.

Awesome natives, very dense and sheltered from the sun going up. The path is great, and the river going through!

s.

The view from the top is spectacular, it overlooks Hamilton City.

E.

Worth a go, local and really impressive

G. T.

Awesome fast paced track but you can take your time very busy no car parking

C.

Well maintained track, great view at the top. Usually well frequented hence feels safe. Well organised carparking.

v.

My favourite place so stunning and great way to get your exercise on and the most amazing views of the Waikato

G.

Great place for a good casual walk Or a seriously good work out to the sumit it's pretty popular for walking good for all ages.

W.

Views are amazing track are safe and well maintained

M.

Best escape from the city. The best exercise

P.

Such a great walk

K.

Well maintained track, mostly wooden stairs with handrails, no mud.

R.

A great place to go to keep fit & meet lots of friendly & interesting people of many ethnicities.

C.

Great stair climb.

D.

Hard climb. Beautiful views. Lots of people.

M.

A moderately difficult climb with many stairs. Great views from the top viewing platform.

N.

Love the sound of water and the view as well

G.

So many steps but awesome view

J.

The trek to the Summit is so awesome & very well pathed.

T. S.

Beautiful one day I may get to the top. Lovely Bush walk. Lots of scenery Bush and lycra.

M.

Always try to make a hikoi up the huks when im home

J.

Best place to exercise and let off some steam

J.

Great exercise, steep Hill climb to beautiful views over Hamilton and the Waikato

S.

Lots of trees, lots of shade. Really nice place to go for a run.

K.

Great walk, some small areas needing a bit of extra effort but the effort is well worth it as the view is to die for at the tippy top, if you don't want to put in the xtra effort to the top then just going up to the Dam is rewarding in …

Y.

Great Adventure place near from Hamilton city

C.

It's deathly but fun

M.

I love this place. I only wish there were some places covered to have a picnick😊

K.

Well maintained track, mostly wooden stairs with handrails, no mud.

N.

Great beginner tramp, beautiful rewarding view when you get to the top.

W.

Nestled in the hills of Ngaruawahia is a walkway called the Hakarimatas. The walk starts off with a nice walk along side a fresh water stream. After a wee while you will cross a couple of small bridges and find yourself heading towards a small waterfall and then up some stairs and towards a small dam. Just before the dam is the stairway to the top of the Hakarimatas. Here you will see people from all walks of life. The Hakarimata walkers are all friendly. As challenging as this climb is the reward is when your at the top. It is one of the nicest places to walk up.

L.

Nice hike. Beautiful.

T.

Very good workout climbing the thousand or more stairs, great view at the top

T. W.

Stairs! This is a steep walk to a summit tower that has great views towards Hamilton and out towards the western side of Ngaruawahia. It was busy but there were a lot of side trails to explore where you were the only one. My only complaint is that in the afternoon there were a bunch of groups of teenagers that were very noisy (playing music very loudly and playing on the stairs). I could tell this was out of place though as several other hikers were quite annoyed.

L.

Getting to the top is really worth it. Good both for exercise or day trip

J. S.

The most popular hiking track lots of people great views all fitness levels

P.

Awesome track. Definitely something worth spending time with family doing..

M. F.

Hard work followed by an amazing pay off. Prepare to have you mind and body challenged as you climb up the Hakarimata steps. This is an extremely popular spot, so expect to have to park on the road. Great for working those leg muscles climbing above the height of the Auckland Sky Tower.

l.

The scenery is so beutiful

M.

It needs a lift or escalator or a helicopter pad...oh hang on it HAS a helicopter pad!

M.

Steps,steps and more steps!!!

C.

Take plenty of water and leave the stairmaster behind. Nice view at the top is worth it.

S.

Tiring but a beautiful veiw... Well worth the sweat ♥️😰

T.

Family friendly mountain climbing experience

L.

Awesome. Good workout

A.

The best horrible walk out there. 1400 people a day can't be wrong. Insane yes, wrong no

R.

Good walk, gets the blood pumping. And great view at the top.

D.

Great for training for any event

D.

Awesome walk, not for the faint hearted. Awesome views at the top.

R.

Great hiking track with beautiful scene and fresh air

S.

Absolutely beautiful- awesome DOC tracks, signage & views.

s.

Awesome place nice views and intense workout..

F.

Nice spot to chill out

T.

Nice steps walk

D.

Wow the glow worms are a must see! What a hidden gem.

W.

Challenging walk but worth every step, great view at the top.

T.

What a beautiful place!! Lovely walk with great scenery!!

D.

Great for fitness workout

d.

A great training spot! 1300 steps to the summit with decent views overlooking the Maori king's city - Ngaruawahia

C.

Omg great view

V.

Very popular for a bush walk

M.

Awesome place, great location to see the glow worms at night for a peaceful walk

J.

Great for a good fitness test!

C.

Great walk.

P.

About an hour to reach the top, worth the satisfaction and view

T.

Great views, great workout

C.

Fantastic walk. Great views on a sunny day

A.

Awesome :) especially when is dark. You can see the glowworm or firefly :)

D.

Could have ice cream and coffee shop for after treat

M.

It's always a good walk up the Hakamateras. Good quick workout.

A.

It's very hard for us to Hiking 1st time more then 1200 stairs steps

M.

Hard work! Didn't make it to the top but will next time! Recommend.

T.

A great little trail to really get the glutes going!

조.

People who is on the walk way are all kind. The nature is good lol

M.

Tough walk. Hard on the calves.

d.

today was wet and slippery but stil gd. just slower coming down

W.

Do it for fun or fitness.

A.

Challenging but fun.

W.

Thanks to Bernadette I conquered all those steps.

T.

Awesome attraction! Prepare to sweat!

M.

I love this place. I only wish there were some places covered to have a picnick😊

m.

Love this place. The only place that makes me sooo tired after reaching the top.

L.

Great recreational and training grounds

M.

Lots of stairs

T.

Well worth the walk with a beautiful View overlooking the town

A.

Awesome view.... great little climb

A.

Very nice but hard walk to half way

W.

Lovely experience, thank you. I love this place

L.

Great Bush walk and excercise with a wonderful view from the summit

J.

A great way to get a workout with fabulous views

R.

Great hike for fitness or just the sheer pleasure of a bush walk

P.

A very popular place. Great work out for the legs and cardio.

M.

Great short walk with lots of stairs

B.

Best sweat you will ever get

R.

Awesome challenge well worth a go

M.

Love this day tramp. Friendly chatty tamper. Well marked track.

V. S.

Nice, subtle walk... Great for relaxation

J.

Love it

J.

Nice views, maximum effort, luv the hike

C.

Fantastic workout

D.

"Life is pain, anyone who says differently is selling something"

W.

Track is well looked after and great to see it being used often

E.

Great walks in a beautiful bush setting.

R.

Gets the heart rate up!

J.

Love it best steps to walk up

K.

Amazing. Tough but beautiful and very busy

H.

Awesome walk!

C.

Good stuff , keep healthier for the little ones

T.

Well worth the huff n puff the view exhilarating

A.

Awesome place to get sweat.

j.

Grear walk awesome view

P.

Great but busy

F.

Wow.. what a challenge but well worth the push! "Nearly there 😆"

H.

Great walk! Love it

J.

The encouraging writings are placed on the right areas. ❤

L.

Google hiking place

t.

Challenge but brilliant

W.

Nestled in the hills of Ngaruawahia is a walkway called the Hakarimatas. The walk starts off with a nice walk along side a fresh water stream. After a wee while you will cross a couple of small bridges and find yourself heading towards a …

C. G.

Beautiful hike. Makes you stronger

J.

Beautiful. Love doing the steps.

D.

Great fitness walk around Hamilton

B.

Awesome place and great view

C.

Great exercise cant wait for summer evenings

B.

Awesome view and great workout

A.

Pretty hard walk but worth the effort

D. O. N. M.

Excellent walk I do all the time

W.

Great fitness challenge with a rewarding view at the summit

m.

Beautiful scenery

I.

Hard work but you feel amazing at the end

M.

Get track for anyone and everyone.

T.

Beautiful walk that pushes you.

M.

nice climb

R.

Love this place. Good to burn the lungs

R.

nice workout

z.

A best place for hiking thou.

L.

Nice hike. Beautiful.

A.

Great track. Awesome time :(

C.

Track busy, but everyone friendly and polite!

C.

Epic loved it. So tired but so good

S.

Awesome must do

J.

3ed time to the top it's a killer but a grate feeling at the top

R.

Lovely place great views frim the drone

V.

Good hike especially for fitness enthusiasts

C.

Awesome scenery. Invigorating walk😁

C.

It's deathly but fun

J.

Good workout

S.

It hurt. But it was worth it

R.

just another example of great kiwi bush

A.

Never easy, always beautiful!!

P.

Great walk

S.

Painful but worth it

K.

Great track to practise for the Tongariro Crossing!!!

R.

Is amazing what a beautiful place

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