CL 56P SUM17 FIN-LR wLinksRED-FIN-FLAT-L

21 / 56

21
the stunning Kauaeranga Valley, located near
thames, is one of nZ’s true hidden treasures.
turn on to Banks st from sh25, then right
on Parawai, which runs beside the river and
becomes Kauaeranga Valley road. continue
uphill, past paddocks and streams to the
Kauaeranga Valley Visitor centre. this is the
hub for many bike and hiking trails.
although there are many walks in the foothills
of this valley, the Pinnacles walk rates as one
of the country’s most popular overnighters.
however, it can be walked in one day if you’re
fit enough – allow 8 hours to do the loop.
the Pinnacles track climbs through ruggedly
beautiful mountains following the original
steps constructed in the early 1900s for
packhorses transporting natural resources
through lush forest. the area remains rich
with history from the days of kauri loggers,
gum diggers and gold miners who plundered
the area for many years.
enquire at the thames isite for the availability
of transport options from thames. Or consider
hiring an electric bike for a fun way to enjoy
this picturesque adventure – and you’ll really
appreciate that power assist on some of those
grades – getting as much or as little exercise
as you wish. Jolly Bikes in thames offers
several e-bike styles to choose from starting at
only $65 per day. feeling energetic? Paki Paki
Bike shop in thames has a great selection of
sports bikes for hire to pedal to the centre.
KAuAErANGA vAllEy visitOr cENtrE
the centre offers informative movies on
history and conservation and a shop selling
conservation related gifts and books. friendly
staff will help you plan your stay and trek,
provide recreational information, and book
your overnight stays at camping sites (power
available) or the two DOc huts.
to celebrate the new year, the centre offers an
informative ‘6 weeks of summer’ programme –
talks, treks, and many fun activities for all ages.
see the following pages for more details.
the Kauaeranga Valley café at the centre is
open every day in summer from 10 till 4. the
centre is open daily from 8:30am except in
severe weather conditions (check
online) and on christmas Day.
Phone 07 867 9080 .
Download their informative visitor
guide and see online for more info:
kauaeranga-booklet-web.pdf
thE KAuAErAngA VAllEy & Visitor centre