Last updated November 2026
The Rapurapu Kauri Track follows the Rapurapu Stream on the Waikato side of the Kaimai Range to a grove of three large kauri near their southern limit. DOC grades it Advanced and gives 1 hr 15 min one way, returning the same way.
The track starts from a car park off State Highway 29, reached by a short, unsigned gravel road on the left about 4 km past the Kaimai Summit heading towards the Waikato.
The stream is crossed eight times, and there are swimming holes along the way. It is about 32 km from Tauranga, and DOC warns the crossings may become impassable after heavy rain.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Rapurapu Kauri Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Car park off SH29, on an unsigned gravel road about 4 km past the Kaimai Summit (Waikato side)
- Distance from the city
- About 32 km from Tauranga
- Walking time
- 1 hr 15 min one way
- Track length
- 5 km return
- Grade
- Advanced
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Stream crossings
- Eight crossings of the Rapurapu Stream
- Mountain bikes
- Not permitted
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Rapurapu Kauri Track
The track starts in pine forest before entering native bush. It is easy going for the first 20 minutes, then descends to the Rapurapu Stream, which you cross eight times on the way to the kauri grove.
The forest along the stream is mature tawa and podocarp, with many ferns in the understorey, and the stream has swimming holes. At the end are three large kauri growing near the southern limit of their range.
DOC notes the largest is 180 cm in diameter and 14 m to its first branch, and says the best view of all three is from rocks in the middle of the stream, just before the boardwalk steps.
The Kauri
Kauri have shallow roots that are easily damaged, so DOC asks visitors to stay on the boardwalk around the trees.
Track Conditions and Safety
DOC says: “Multiple river crossings are required.” The crossings are not difficult in good weather, but they “may become impassable after heavy rain.” Don’t cross if the stream is up, and turn back if unsure. DOC advises carrying a topographic map. Check DOC before you go, tell someone your plans and use Plan My Walk.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Rapurapu Kauri Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park: huts, tracks and current conditions across the Kaimai Range.
Plan My Walk: weather, track alerts and a trip plan to share before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Rapurapu Kauri Track take?
DOC gives 1 hr 15 min one way. Return the same way.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it Advanced. The track crosses the Rapurapu Stream eight times.
Will I get wet feet?
DOC doesn’t say, but the track crosses the Rapurapu Stream eight times.
Where is the car park?
Off SH29 on the Waikato side, down a short unsigned gravel road on the left about 4 km past the Kaimai Summit.
Can I take my dog?
No dogs.
How big are the kauri?
DOC says the largest is 180 cm in diameter and 14 m to its first branch.
Can I go after heavy rain?
DOC warns the river crossings may become impassable after heavy rain.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.