Child rate applies 15 years and under
You are transported to the start of the track by mini coach. For the first two days your luggage is transported between the huts by boat; suitcases, duffle bags or backpacks are fine, but preferably luggage that is fairly robust. You carry a day pack for the first two days just with lunch, water and warm outer layers, and then for the final two days you will add a small sleeping bag and gear for one night. A 40-litre backpack is generally sufficient for your trip, it will be lighter on the first two days and no more than approximately 8kg on the last two days when your additional gear is added. If required, walkers may also be transported sections of the track by boat. Your return transport to Rotorua is also by mini coach. Includes pick-up and drop-off to your Rotorua accommodation.
After the hike there may be an opportunity to buy ice-creams and drinks, etc. from a small store, so it is a good idea to take a small amount of cash or a card. Otherwise there are no additional costs.
Grade: C
Moderate hike, reasonable level of fitness and agility essential.
Up to 6 hrs of physical activity per day.
At times carrying a backpack of 5-6kgs.
Tracks generally in good condition.
Altitude gains of up to 600m on harder days.
No hiking experience necessary.
Reasonable standard of fitness required.
The Lake Waikaremoana Guided Walk is graded as a moderate hike. The track surfaces vary from well-formed paths to rough terrain broken by tree roots, rocks and mud. Walkers need a reasonable level of fitness, agility and sense of adventure! The terrain is undulating while the track follows the lake edge, and there is a moderate climb and descent of about 600 metres over the Panekiri Ridge. The walk is a challenge that people of all ages and abilities will relish. While most of your gear will be transported to each hut you will be required to carry a medium sized backpack (average weight 6kg) for the last two days. You are encouraged to walk at your own pace and the daily schedule allows ample time for slow walkers. The guides offer support and advice, and you can take plenty of rest and refreshment breaks each day.
You will stay in authentic Department of Conservation bush huts, which are situated in stunning natural surroundings. These huts are simple but dry and clean with heating. All have fresh drinking water, toilets, separate kitchen/communal areas, outdoor patio/picnic areas, bunk beds and mattresses. Clean sleeping bags, liners and pillows are supplied or you can bring your own. These huts are public so we are likely to be sharing with other hikers, but a booking system ensures no over-crowding.
Please note: There are no drying rooms in the huts.
Please let us know where you are staying in Rotorua. We can book this for you or you can book yourself.
Equipment Provided and Required
You may borrow a 40-litre backpack, waterproof raincoat, and/or 3-season sleeping bag and liner free of charge, or you can use your own. Weather conditions are highly variable so it is essential to have clothing that keeps you warm, even when wet. For this reason, polypropylene or wool clothing is recommended to walk in, and not cotton. Extra clothing can be stored in the boat. Pack your spare clothes and sleeping bag inside plastic bags to keep dry.
You carry a day pack for the first two days just with lunch, water and warm outer layers, and then for the final two days you will add a small sleeping bag and gear for one night. A 40-litre backpack is generally sufficient for your trip, it will be lighter on the first two days and no more than approximately 8kg on the last two days when your additional gear is added.
Bring your own or borrow from operator:
Essential Items:
Essential clothing for walking:
Clothing for evenings:
Optional items:
Walking sticks, gaiters, waterproof over-trousers, Lunchbox to protect your sandwiches, book, trout fishing gear and licence, insect repellent and a few dollars for an ice-cream on the way home.
From the time you are picked up in Rotorua all food is included. Breakfast offers a selection from fruit, cereal and toast, to a warm breakfast of bacon and eggs, pancakes or porridge. Just what you need to start a great day in the outdoors! Picnic lunches are made fresh daily and include delicious sandwiches, fresh fruit of your choice, and energy snacks to keep you sustained for the day. Hot and cold drinks are also available throughout the day. Dinner is comprised of an authentic New Zealand main with seasonal vegetables or fresh garden salad, and no kiwi meal would be complete without pudding (dessert), and tea or coffee. Pride is taken in preparing quality New Zealand style food, especially with fresh local produce, e.g. venison, kumara and sweetcorn.
Any special dietary requests or requirements are easily provided for. Please let us know at the time of booking.
The guides are hiking addicts who love to have fun. They take special pride in providing a safe and friendly service. They enjoying sharing the natural and cultural histories of their specialist areas and provide a full guiding service - everything from a hot cup of tea or coffee to first aid treatments! They’ll accompany you on each days’ walk and put their culinary skills to good use in the kitchen to replenish you. All our guides are trained in first aid and carry comprehensive first aid kits.
Payment:
For bookings 4 or more months in advance of the departure a 25% deposit can be paid with the remainder due 95 days prior to your trip. For bookings within 4 months of the departure, full payment is required.
Cancellations:
More than 60 days before departure date: $85 administration fee.
59 – 30 days before departure date: $200 fee applies.
29 – 10 days before departure: 50% of full fare in forfeiture.
Within 9 days of walk departure date: 100% of full fare in forfeiture.
Bookings can be transferred to another date (subject to availability) for the following charges: more than 60 days prior = no penalty; between 59-30 days prior = $85 per person; within 30 days $200 fee per person; Within 14 days = booking cannot be transferred. Transfers beyond the existing season may be subject to new seasons rates.
Please note that due to circumstances out of our control, itineraries may change at any time. The operator will always endeavour to ensure that where changes are made, clients are notified as soon as possible.
Hiking New Zealand Ltd is not liable for any cost or loss, directly or indirectly, from any personal disruption due to COVID-19. Such costs or losses include, but are not limited to: requirements to follow COVID-19 mandates, flights, accommodation, transfers, and other expenses incurred over and above the tour price. Once your tour has commenced there is no refund available for any portion due to any circumstances. Any decision regarding exceptions to this policy are at the discretion of Hiking New Zealand Ltd or the Operator of the trip if it is not Hiking New Zealand Ltd.
We suggest clients take out a comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads Travel Insurance provides online quotes.
