Karamatura, Puriri Ridge, Ōmanawanui Tracks (& Optional Whatipu Caves)
Trip Date: Sunday 15 November 2026
Departure: 8:00AM from The Strand, Takapuna
Return: Expect to be back at Takapuna around 5-6PM
Please ensure you have the correct cash to pay on the bus: $20 members/$25 non members
Trip Overview Please read carefully
This trip links together three outstanding tracks—Karamatura, Puriri Ridge, and Ōmanawanui—for a full day of classic west coast tramping: native bush, stream-side walking, ridge climbs, and sweeping coastal views.
The group will split into two parties (Distance and Med-Easy) starting from different points and finishing together at Whatipu. Both routes end on a high—the stunning Ōmanawanui Track, a 3 km ridge line walk offering panoramic views over the Manukau Harbour and Whatipu coastline, with glimpses of Mt Taranaki on clear days. Expect staircases, historic pā sites, regenerating bush, and plenty of birdlife.
Leg day alert! Everyone should have a moderate level of fitness and confidence managing stair climbs and descents—the Ōmanawanui Track features a mildly ridiculous 2,000ish box steps over 2.5 km, thanks to a 2021 upgrade!
Your legs will notice. However…….. it will be worth the sweat with an epic 360 degree view from the top!
If time allows, the Easier Party may also have the chance to visit the Whatipu Caves—a short 3 km return walk to explore sea-carved limestone formations. If you're keen to check them out, bring a headlamp.
Distance Party
Start: Karamatura Carpark, Huia
Route: Karamatura → Donald McLean → Puriri Ridge → Ōmanawanui → Whatipu
Distance: around 12-13 km
Grade: Medium–Hard
Time: 6 to 6.5 hours
Elevation Gain: ~700 m
What to Expect:
- Peaceful bush and waterfalls along the Karamatura Track
- Steady climbing via Donald McLean and Puriri Ridge
- A dramatic finale across the iconic Ōmanawanui ridgeline
- Ideal for trampers with good fitness and confidence on uneven terrain
Medium/Easy Party
Start: Whatipu Carpark (Out-and-back track)
Route: -Whatipu → Ōmanawanui → Signal House Track → Whatipu
Distance: ~4.00 km
Grade: Easy–Moderate
Time: 3 to 3.5 hours
Elevation gain:~370m
What to Expect:
- A shorter but scenic walk with plenty of highlights
- Well maintained trails with panoramic views
- The same stunning ridgeline and sea views, at a relaxed pace
- Optional side trip to the Whatipu Caves (approx. 3 km return / 30–45 mins) from the carpark
- A great option for those new to the club or easing into longer tramps
Come prepared - the West Coast weather can be changeable
- Raincoat and warm layers
- Lots of water!
- Trail running shoes or tramping boots with good grip
- Walking poles (optional but helpful on steeper sections)
- Headlamp (if planning to explore the caves)
- And of course, all usual gear for a day trip (see gear list)
- Please ensure you have clean footwear for the trip home.
New to the club or thinking of joining us?
** Non-members and new members are very welcome! Please contact the organiser beforehand to check that this hike is suitable for you.
We’d love to have you along!
Organiser: Anita Devine - 021.366.016
Driver: TBA
Cost: $20 members/$25 non members
**Please ensure correct cash on the day!
Members: Please register by Friday 13th November at 7pm.
Gear List: NSTC Gear List.pdf
Maps:Online/GPS/Printable
Track Care Reminder: This area is within a Kauri Dieback Protection Zone. All boots and gear must be cleaned before and after the trip. Please stay on formed tracks at all times.
Please ensure you have clean footwear for the trip home in the bus
Day trip policy: Minimum number of participants for trip to proceed is 10 for trips less than $20 and 12 for trip more than $20.
