Bush Walks

Lindemann Loop Track Tauranga: Kaimai Lookout and Kauri Dam Loop near Katikati

Last updated October 2026

The Lindemann Loop Track is a long loop in the northern Kaimai Range above Katikati, known for a popular lookout over the northern Bay of Plenty and the remains of old kauri dams.

When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed this track as closed. Its Northern Kaimai alert said: “The below tracks are closed for kauri protection and storm damage,” and asked walkers not to enter closed areas or bypass closures.

When open, the loop starts at the end of Lindemann Road, off SH2 just north of Katikati, and DOC grades it Advanced with a time of 5 hr. It is about 31 km from Tauranga. Check DOC for reopening before you plan a trip.

Track Facts

Check DOC before you go

Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Lindemann Loop Track on the day you walk.

Current alerts on DOC
Track (DOC)
Walking time5 hr
DOC gradeAdvanced
Track length9.7 km
DogsNo dogs
Track typeTramping track

Practical Information

Start
Car park at the end of Lindemann Road, off SH2 north of Katikati
Distance from the city
About 31 km from Tauranga
Walking time
5 hr
Track length
11 km loop (DOC)
Grade
Advanced
Dogs
No dogs
Track type
Tramping track
Managed by
Department of Conservation
Status
Closed when checked on 18 October 2026 (kauri protection and storm damage). Check DOC for reopening.

About Lindemann Loop Track

DOC describes the loop as walkable in either direction. From the start you pass a closed gate and a kauri hygiene station, then reach a junction after about 40 m.

To the left, a steep ridge climb of about an hour leads up to the forest country above. To the right, the Lindemann Pack Track climbs more gently, with views, streams, varied vegetation and the remains of old kauri dams, and DOC says this is the easier option.

About 3 hours 30 minutes in, a junction leads to the Cashmore Clearing Track and a kauri dam site where only the old bed log remains. About 25 minutes further on is a small shelter and campsite area, and Waitawheta Hut lies about 3 hours beyond the dams junction.

The ridge has views over the Tauranga area and offshore islands.

Kauri Dam History

The loop passes through the Wairoa valley, where DOC notes the last kauri dam driving in New Zealand took place between 1935 and 1941. The remains of old kauri dams can still be seen along the pack track.

Track Closure

When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC’s Northern Kaimai alert read: “The below tracks are closed for kauri protection and storm damage. Multiple hazards exist and compromised kauri hygiene measures.

Do not enter closed areas or bypass closures.” The Lindemann Loop Track was on the closed list. Check the DOC page for reopening, and use Plan My Walk when planning any Kaimai trip.

Where to Learn More

Department of Conservation: Lindemann Loop Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Plan My Walk: weather, track alerts and a trip plan to share before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Lindemann Loop Track open?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed it as closed for kauri protection and storm damage. Do not enter or bypass the closure. Check DOC for reopening.

How long is the loop?
DOC gives 5 hr for the 11 km loop.

How hard is it?
DOC grades it Advanced. The ridge option is a steep climb; the pack track is the easier way up.

Where does it start?
At the car park at the end of Lindemann Road, off SH2 just north of Katikati.

Can I take my dog?
No dogs.

What is there to see?
A popular lookout over the northern Bay of Plenty, and the remains of kauri dams from the last dam driving in New Zealand.

Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.

Sources and data notes 1