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Signature Guided Walk
Waoku Coach Road
Length: 22 Kms.
This guided walk is over a 100 year old Coach Road that used to link Dargaville with the North, before the State Highway was put through the Waipoua Forest. [The road connection between both ends of the Coach Road is now 90Kms].
The Coach Road is now disused and rises 700m with a maximum grade of 1:12. This was so that the horses could manage the slope when pulling a fully laden coach or wagon. Over the life of the Coach Road there has only been one vehicle that has driven the full length of the road. That was in 1912 by the then Prime Minister Sir Joseph Ward.
Along the road there a number of hand cut stone culverts that are still visible and very functional today. The endangered Korako can also be seen along the margins of the Coach Road if you are lucky. On an overnight stay it is also possible to spot Kiwi's in their natural habitat, and wake to the amazing morning chorus.
What to bring.
Plenty of film or batteries for the camera. Good walking shoes. Warm clothes and rain protection.
Fitness level.
The walk will take a full day (6 - 10 hours) dependent upon the weather. Approximately halfway there is a public shelter where we can overnight if necessary.
You will be supplied with a lightweight pack and overnight safety equipment (Including rations) just in case we get caught out. Approx weight is 3 Kgs with plenty of room for food and your own stuff.
In addition your guide will carry GPS, ELB and a mobile phone for emergencies.
You will be transported to and from the Waoku Coach Road walk from your accomodation at Kaihu Farm.
Cost: NZ$625.00 per person - One day walk.
This includes 2 nights accomodation, Korako spotting, all meals, transport to and from the walk, a local guide and a souvenir package.
Cost: NZ$875.00 per person - Two day walk & overnight camp.
This includes 2 nights accomodation, an overnight camp, Kiwi spotting, Korako spotting, all meals, secure lockup while on walk, transport to and from the walk, a local guide and a souvenir package.
Sidebar
To stand a chance of seeing the elusive Kiwi in its native habitat it requires an overnight camp.
These overnight camps are scheduled on the 3rd weekend on a monthly basis, although a special arrangement can be made for groups of 6 or more.