Wangapeka Track, Mountain hiking trail in Kahurangi National Park, New Zealand
The Wangapeka Track is a multi-day hiking route through Kahurangi National Park, passing through dense beech forests, mountain streams, and crossing two high passes. The trail connects Rolling River to Wangapeka Road, taking hikers through varied terrain and elevations.
The trail began in 1861 following gold discoveries in the Wangapeka River valley, with miners building it under provincial council funding. This early route opened access to new goldfields and shaped regional development.
The track follows valleys that Māori peoples historically traveled through as a route across the landscape. Visitors today walk through the same terrain that has connected communities for generations.
The hike takes four to six days with eight Department of Conservation huts spaced along the route. Visitors should be well-prepared for mountain conditions, particularly rapid weather changes and wet terrain.
The trail offers chances to spot the rare whio blue duck in its natural setting. This species appears on New Zealand currency, reflecting the importance placed on protecting these habitats.
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