
What we’re about
Please visit our global hiking website (which includes a blog , a forum, and other things) at Wakahi. Thanks.
Great Walks of New Zealand is a hiking/climbing group based in New Zealand. Our main aim is to promote health, well-being, and happiness by bringing together people interested in hiking, climbing, and travelling.
WHAT WE DO TO PROMOTE HEALTH, WELL-BEING, AND HAPPINESS
1. Prioritising Happiness: We recognize the importance of happiness in overall well-being. We encourage activities and initiatives that promote joy, satisfaction, and a sense of accomplishment in outdoor adventures.
2. Boosting Physical and Mental Health: We encourage practices that support physical and mental well-being, such as regular training, proper nutrition, and mindfulness. We recognize the importance of rest and recovery to prevent injuries and maintain mental clarity.
3. Encouraging Personal Growth: We provide support opportunities for skill development and personal growth in hiking and climbing. We encourage continuous learning through training events.
4. Foster a Positive Environment: We create a supportive and inclusive community where individuals feel valued and respected. We promote positive interactions and discourage behaviors that contribute to stress or negativity, both on and off the trail.
5. Respect Individual Needs: We wcknowledge and respect the diverse needs and preferences of hikers and climbers. We provide flexibility and accommodations to support different skill levels, physical abilities, and personal goals.
OUR EVENTS
1. The 11 official Great Walks of New Zealand.
2. Other walks that deserve to be on the list of Great Walks (e.g., Queen Charlotte Track, Te Paki Coastal Track).
3. Any walks that benefit the fitness, health, and happiness of our members.
4. The mountains of New Zealand.
5. The Great Walks and other interesting long-distance hiking trails of the world with emphasis on walks that are off the beaten tracks. We would like to avoid over-touristic places and in so doing help the advancement of poorer communities.
6. Mountains of the world (e.g., Mt. Fuji, Mt. Kilimanjaro), where fitness and endurance levels allow.
Our main emphasis will be on multi-day events, with day events primarily for training purposes. We aim to help as many members as possible reach the fitness and endurance levels required for challenging multi-day hikes.
Members joining an event are expected to contribute to the group as a whole. Unless the Organizer or Event Organizer agrees, members should not sign up for events with the intention of forming their own sub-group and walking separately from others. This has happened in the past, but we aim to avoid it as much as possible.
We will also organize short (1- or 2-day) hikes to help members who lack experience attain the required fitness level and acquire backcountry survival skills.
Please note that this is not a dating site. It is okay to meet someone you like and eventually partner with them, but please do not attend our events solely to meet someone. We will not tolerate members harassing or pressurizing other members.
Similarly, the Organiser will never harass or pressurize any other members, and I am confident that the Event Organisers I have nominated will not either.
CODE OF ETHICS
1. Respect for Nature: We commit to preserving the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles, minimizing our impact, and respecting wildlife and plant life.
2. Safety First: We prioritize the safety of all members by adhering to safety guidelines, being prepared for all conditions, and looking out for one another.
3. Inclusivity and Respect: We foster an inclusive environment where all members feel welcome and respected, regardless of their background, experience level, or personal beliefs.
4. Community Contribution: Members are encouraged to contribute positively to the group by sharing knowledge, supporting fellow hikers, and participating actively in events.
5. Integrity and Honesty: We value honesty and integrity in all interactions, ensuring transparent communication and ethical behavior at all times.
6. Personal Responsibility: Each member is responsible for their own actions, including being prepared for hikes, respecting group decisions, and adhering to event guidelines.
7. Non-Harassment: We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment or pressure of any kind. Members are expected to interact respectfully and professionally.
8. Commitment to Fitness: We encourage members to work towards the fitness and endurance levels required for challenging hikes, supporting each other in achieving these goals.
9. No Sub-Groups: Members should not form sub-groups within events unless agreed upon by the Organiser or Event Organiser, to maintain group cohesion and unity.
10. Non-Dating Policy: While forming personal connections is natural, our events are not intended for dating. Members should not attend with the sole intention of meeting a romantic partner. It is however OK to meet someone and get connected with them romantically or otherwise if it comes naturally.
Upcoming events
29
THE PINNACLES DAY HIKE 14 km, 750 m ascent and 750 m descent
Kauaeranga Valley Road, Thames, NZTRAINING EVENT FOR NEW MEMBERS, FUN FOR REGULARS
Maximum number of participants: 25. (Everyone goes on the waiting list, and Rafick checks before approving.)We’re running this special training event for new members who wish to take part in multi-day hikes, and for regulars who simply enjoy a good day out together.
We currently have six upcoming Great Walks, with a few more multi-day adventures soon to be added for this season.
Looking ahead to the 2026–2027 season, we’ll be completing all 11 Great Walks and adding several other multi-day treks and training events like this one.
Starting June 2026, we’ll also begin hosting 4–5 international hiking events each year.
All events up to May 2027 will be published soon — so this training is the perfect way to get ready for what’s ahead.
***
THE PINNACLES DAY HIKE VIA KAUAERANGA TRACK
Date: Sunday 19 October 2025
Start/Finish: End of Kauaeranga Valley Road carpark (Coromandel Forest Park)
Start time: Meet by 9:45 AM, start walking at 10:00 AM sharp
Distance: Approximately 14 km return
Duration: 5–6 hours including breaks and summit stop
Difficulty: 4/5 — steady climb with many stone steps (600 m ascent); challenging in wet conditions.***
### Itinerary
We will climb steadily from the carpark to the Pinnacles Hut, where we’ll stop for lunch.
After lunch, we’ll continue up to the Pinnacles summit (759 m) to enjoy panoramic views over the Coromandel Ranges and coastline.
We’ll then descend the same way back to the carpark.***
### What to bring
- Food for lunch and snacks (no dinner or breakfast needed for this day trip)
- At least 2 litres of water
- Hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip
- Warm layers and a rain jacket (it can get windy at the summit)
- Hiking poles (optional but useful on the stone steps)
- Gloves or fingerless gloves for grip on the steel ladders near the top
- Hat and sunscreen
Your safety is your responsibility.
***
### Transport and Parking
Park at the end of Kauaeranga Valley Road (Coromandel Forest Park).
You’re welcome to use the comments section below to ask for a lift or offer a ride.One passenger: please contribute $25 to the driver
Two or more passengers: $15 per passenger
(Approx. 150 km one way, about 1 hour 50 minutes from Auckland)***
### Contribution
Attendees send $2 for helping to pay meetup dot com costs, and navigation and safety equipment for the group. Contributions are due 2 weeks before the event. Please make a transfer to 02-0200-0260173-000. Wakahi.com Limited
17 attendeesTRAINING EVENT | HAKARIMATA TRAVERSE—NGARUAWĀHIA TO HUNTLY 14 KM/900m elev gain
2 NOV Event, 2 Brownlee Avenue, Ngāruawāhia 3720, Ngāruawāhia, NZTRAINING EVENT FOR NEW MEMBERS, FUN FOR REGULARS
Maximum number of participants: 20 (Everyone goes on the waiting list, and Rafick checks before approving.)
## HAKARIMATA TRAVERSE — NGARUAWĀHIA TO HUNTLY
Date: Sunday 2 November 2025
Start: Hakarimata Scenic Reserve, Brownlee Avenue Carpark (Ngaruawāhia)
Finish: Parker Road Carpark (Huntly)
Start time: Meet by 9:15 AM — depart 9:30 AM sharp
Distance: Approximately 14 km (one way)
Duration: 5½ – 6 hours (including breaks)
Difficulty: 4/5 — long, steady climbs (~900 m total gain), undulating ridge, many stairs.***
### Itinerary
We’ll begin with the well-known Hakarimata stairs from Ngaruawāhia (a 600 m climb to the summit platform). From there, the ridge track undulates through native forest with a series of climbs and descents before gradually dropping to Huntly.
Expect continuous hill work, good cardio training, and rewarding views across the Waikato Basin.
This is a point-to-point hike — no backtracking — so a car shuttle will be organised between Ngaruawāhia and Huntly before we start.***
### What to Bring
This is a full-day hike over rough and often steep terrain. Please be properly prepared.
Clothing and footwear- Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip (the stairs and descents can be slippery)
- Lightweight long pants or shorts suitable for bush tracks
- Quick-drying top and warm mid-layer (fleece or merino)
- Waterproof rain jacket — the ridge can be windy or wet
- Hat and sunscreen for sun protection
- Gloves or fingerless gloves for better grip on railings and poles
Food and hydration
- At least 2 litres of water (there are no reliable refill points on the ridge)
- Packed lunch and high-energy snacks (nuts, bars, fruit, sandwiches)
- Electrolyte mix or salt tablets if you tend to sweat heavily
Equipment
- Daypack (20–30 L recommended)
- Hiking poles (optional but very helpful on the descent)
Your safety is your responsibility. Please ensure you are fit enough for a continuous 5–6-hour hill walk with long climbs and descents.
### Transport and Shuttle Plan
It’s about 1 hour 25 minutes to Ngaruawāhia. A few drivers will leave vehicles at the Huntly (Parker Road) carpark before returning to Ngaruawāhia to start the hike.
At the end of the walk those vehicles will transport everyone back to the starting point.
Ride-share contribution:
- One passenger: $25 to the driver
- Two or more passengers: $15 each
Please coordinate in the comments if you can offer or need a lift.
***
### Important Notes
- Check weather forecasts before the event — the ridge can be slippery after rain.
- Carry enough food, water, and layers for the full day.
- This event involves a long climb and descent — excellent preparation for Kepler and Milford.
- If the track is officially closed for any reason, a replacement route of similar length and grade will be announced.
Your safety is your responsibility.
### Contribution
Each attendee sends $2 to help cover Meetup.com costs.
Contributions are due before the event.
Please make a transfer to 02-0200-0260173-000 Wakahi.com Limited5 attendeesKepler Track 60 km over 3 days
Te Anau, 48-50 Lakefront Drive, NZNOTE: We also have the Milford Track starting on 26 November 2025
Kepler Track: A 3-Day Journey Through Fiordland's Beauty
Dates: 21 to 24 November 2025. Total Distance: 60 km.Prepare yourself for an exhilarating 3-day adventure on the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks. This loop track takes you through awe-inspiring alpine ridges, serene forests, and along the shores of Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to multi-day treks, this journey promises unforgettable vistas and memories.
TRIP OVERVIEW
In just 3 days, the Kepler Track reveals the grandeur of Fiordland National Park. We’ll hike to two of the track’s iconic huts, experiencing varied landscapes and breathtaking views. This itinerary allows for a rewarding adventure while leaving 25th November free to rest for those embarking on the Milford Track.
Please visit Kepler Track Elevation Profile to see a cross-section of the track.
ITINERARY
Friday, 21st November 2025: Travel to Te Anau
Morning: Fly from Auckland to Queenstown.
Afternoon: Scenic drive from Queenstown to Te Anau (approx. 2 hours).
Evening: Settle into your accommodation in Te Anau and prepare for the hike. Explore the town or enjoy the tranquility of Lake Te Anau.Hiking Day 1: Saturday, 22nd November 2025: Te Anau to Luxmore Hut
Morning: Begin with a short transfer to the Kepler Track car park.
Hike: A steady climb through beech forests and limestone bluffs, opening up to stunning alpine views.
Distance: 13.8 km (5-6 hours).Stay: Luxmore Hut, perched high in the alpine zone with panoramic views.
Hiking Day 2: Sunday, 23rd November 2025: Luxmore Hut to Iris Burn Hut
Hike: Traverse the alpine ridges with awe-inspiring vistas of Fiordland. Descend through lush forests into the peaceful Iris Burn Valley.
Distance: 14.6 km (5-6 hours).
Stay: Iris Burn Hut, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by towering peaks.Hiking Day 3: Monday, 24th November 2025: Iris Burn Hut to Rainbow Reach
Hike: Walk through tranquil forests and wetlands, passing the cascading Iris Burn Falls and following the Waiau River to the track’s end at Rainbow Reach.
Distance: 20.2 km (5-6 hours).
Afternoon: Return transfer to Te Anau. Celebrate the completion of the Kepler Track with a relaxing evening.ACCOMMODATION
On Track:
Luxmore Hut (22nd November 2025)
Iris Burn Hut (23rd November 2025)Te Anau:
Comfortable motels or hotels before and after the hike. Early booking is recommended.
I will inform you about the bookings opening date in June 2025 and will also book accomodation in Te Anau once we know the number of attendees.
TRANSPORTATION
Flights: Auckland to Queenstown return.
Transfers: Organized transfers from Queenstown to Te Anau, and to/from the Kepler Track.COST ESTIMATES
Flights: Approximately $300–$450 per person (round trip).
Hut Bookings: $80 per night.
Accommodation in Te Anau: $50-100/per person per night. Te Anau Lakefront backpackers costs less than $200/night for 4 persons.
Local Transfers: $50–$100 per person (round trip).WHAT TO BRING
Essentials:
Backpack with rain cover.
Sleeping bag (suitable for alpine conditions).
Waterproof hiking boots.
Waterproof jacket and pants.
Layered clothing (prepare for variable weather).
Food and snacks for 3 days.
Water bottle (water is available at huts).
Headlamp and batteries.
Hat, gloves, and sunscreen.
Personal hygiene items (toilet paper, biodegradable soap).
First aid kit.Optional:
Hiking poles.
Insect repellent.
Camera for capturing the stunning landscapes.IMPORTANT NOTES
Fitness Level: Moderate to high. Participants should be prepared for steep climbs and long hiking days.
Bookings: Hut bookings are essential and should be made as soon as possible. I will let you know on what date bookings will open for the 2025/2026 season.
Leave No Trace: Carry out all rubbish and respect wildlife.Safety: I will carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) and a GPS device for group safety. Your safety will remain your responsibility.
REGISTRATION
Early registration is essential to secure your spot. Priority will be given to those I know well, who have done multi-day hikes with us, and/or have attended training sessions with us.
CONTRIBUTION
Attendees are expected to make a donation as follows 2 weeks before the event:
Regulars: $10
Non-regulars: $15
First-timers: $208 attendees
Past events
53
Group links
Organizers
