Karangahake Gorge and the Historic Walkway

A parking area on on a Department of Conservation site on State Highway 2 beside the Ohinemuri River provides access to historic gold mining ruins and walks, including a loop one through an old railway tunnel. The Hauraki Rail Trail cycle way passes through. A highly popular place for picnicking, walking and gaining insights into the hard rock mining activity which once engulfed this area.

Interpretation panels at the site explain the walk options and tell of the history.

You may have heard of Paeroa and Waihi.

But in-between the two – between the soft drink’s namesake and the old miners’ mecca - the Karangahake Gorge has a history dripping in sweat and threaded with gold. Leaving Paeroa with its touristy, over-sized Lemon and Paeroa bottles and myriad antique shops, you head towards a cool and majestic piece of paradise. In the 1890s, the Karangahake Gorge was mined within an inch of its life; the introduction of the cyanide process in 1889 in the Ohinemuri area made it easier to extract gold and silver. The remains of the three companies that plundered the mountain can be seen at the Crown, Woodstock and Talisman batteries.

As the First World War was cranking up, mining in the gorge decreased and eventually ceased between 1910 and 1920. Fortunately the gorge has recovered beautifully; the Ohinemuri River now runs clean and clear. There are excellent walks, some suitable for day trippers, others for the more experienced trekker. Get into the gorge before the shadows of the afternoon make it chilly and slightly spooky; but, if you want to do a spot of skinny dipping, this is when you are less likely to get caught by your fellow explorers.

If you’re staying overnight at the Golden Owl backpackers, ask about the train tunnel with its glow-worms – it’s a magical place. Head to the historic Waikino Tavern and enjoy a cold beer and a game of pool.

If you’re looking for luxury, The Ohinemuri Winery is not to be missed. Book their accommodation, dine in the restaurant and treat your palate to their excellent wines. Next morning, have breakfast at the Talisman or the Waikino Station café, where the coffee rivals that of big city baristas.

Tram rides from the Station café into Waihi make for a bit of touristy fun, or go to Waihi beach for its surf and invigorating salt air. It’s a short and winding road and it’s well worth the trip.