Take an adventurous sidle alongside the Waitōtara River.

Although only a half-day each way, Trains Track offers wild respite. Sidling along the languorous Waitōtara River to Te Rereohaupa Falls and Trains Hut, has you crossing swingbridges and exposed sections above the river and gorges.

The track begins with a walk of about 5km on straight forward farm track through Kapara Homestead to Trains Track. There’s little shade here in summer. However, if you have a 4WD with good clearance, this section can be driven, and there’s parking by the river.

From here, the track heads north for 600m to the Waitōtara River, where it turns west through a tangled mix of podocarp, nīkau and mānuka. 

After about 2.5km there’s the first of three swingbridges. Look down: you might be surprised to find how high up you are. The foothills in this part of New Zealand have a pyramid-like steepness, and it can be hard to see the bottom of the gorges from the bridges.

The track generally sits high above the Waitōtara River on the true right and is in average condition, but can be muddy after rain. Some of it is on high ledges above the river and side gorges, and at times it crosses slips with a sheer drop to the river; it’s prudent to move quickly through these areas. 

Just after the second swingbridge, there’s a 4WD track on the left that passes over Pt350. Keep right here.

The track follows an open riverbank as the fork with Omaru Stream is approached.

The turnoff to Te Rereohaupa Falls is not obvious, and is about 10 minutes before Trains Hut. Go down a short slope, scramble up a big boulder to take in the beauty of the falls, or pick through the rocks to enjoy a swim. It’s a pleasant spot to linger, with a row of caves in the natural amphitheatre. 

Trains Hut sits in a clearing, and is perfect for stargazing and watching the moon rise on a clear night. There’s plenty of flat space to pitch a tent or bivvy if needed; an uncovered deck to enjoy in pleasant weather.

For the more adventurous, a poled route leads from Trains Hut over Pt336 to Tahupo Hut and beyond. Otherwise, return the way you came.