Parakiwai Quarry Rock Climbing
Explore a historic gold mine, walk old tram tracks, and discover a stunning waterfall and swimming hole in this hidden natural gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See cute mushrooms
Parakiwai Quarry Rock Climbing
Best Time
See cute mushrooms
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic gold mine, walk old tram tracks, and discover a stunning waterfall and swimming hole in this hidden natural gem.
"A hidden treasure with an old goldmine, caves, tunnels, and amazing waterfalls – worth the walk!"
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Waterproof boots are essential due to muddy and wet sections, especially in the tunnel.
🗺️ No Signage for Water Holes
Be prepared to explore off the main path to find the popular swimming spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Waterfall and Swimming Hole
End of the main track
A refreshing waterfall cascades into a cold swimming hole, perfect for a dip after your hike. Cliff jumping is also an option for the adventurous!
Mine Caves and Tunnels
Along the main track
Discover dark, damp caves and a 50-70m tunnel. Keep an eye out for interesting cave dwellers like weta!
Historic Tram Track Walk
Parakiwai Quarry Road
An easy to moderate 11km walk along a former horse-drawn tram track, surrounded by native bush and unique rock formations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Muddy Trails
Embrace the Hidden Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Waterproof boots are essential due to muddy and wet sections, especially in the tunnel.
🗺️ No Signage for Water Holes
Be prepared to explore off the main path to find the popular swimming spots.
🔦 Caves are Dark & Damp
Bring a flashlight if you plan to explore the mine caves thoroughly.
🏊♀️ Refreshing River Dip
The waterfall swimming hole is cold but invigorating – perfect for a summer cool-down.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Waterproof boots are essential due to muddy and wet sections, especially in the tunnel.
🗺️ No Signage for Water Holes
Be prepared to explore off the main path to find the popular swimming spots.
🔦 Caves are Dark & Damp
Bring a flashlight if you plan to explore the mine caves thoroughly.
🏊♀️ Refreshing River Dip
The waterfall swimming hole is cold but invigorating – perfect for a summer cool-down.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Parakiwai Quarry as a hidden gem with a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The waterfall and swimming hole are highlights, offering a refreshing escape. While the walk can be muddy and the caves damp, the overall experience is highly rewarding and worth the effort. +2
"There's plenty of parking. It's gravel road for the last few kms.
Car Park is at the end of Parakiwai Quarry Rd.
It's a rather easy to moderate walk. It's mostly flat and under the cover of trees. Walking alongside the Otahu River crossing it once via a wooden bridge where the table and seating is next to the River. You'll continue on the walkway it is wet, damp, and muddy in places, especially in the tunnel near the end of the walk. The tunnel is roughly 50m-70m long if you're to scared then there is a track that goes over it on the left of the tunnel.
Not long after the tunnel, you'll come to the bridge and waterfall where you can swim in the refreshingly cold water."
Leon Khan
"This hidden treasure in Whangamata was amazing! It was an old horse-drawn tram track surrounded by native bush and andesitic rocks! There is an old camp and battery site where a goldmine once was active. The mine caves were dark, damp with some interesting friends (weta) perched above. The swing bridge and waterfalls were a lovely resting place to soak the feet into. Another great walk - about 11km! An easy 3-3.5hr walk worth grounding one self in."
Regina Ieti
"Walked to the first bridge.
Checked out the swimming spot with picnic table which was nice, lots of tuna that nibble your feet.
River was brown and lots of leaves and Bracken due to the rain.
Came back and headed off the path to the popular swimming hole with a cliff jump.
Great little spot.
Track was muddy in a couple places, to be expected with the rain.
No signage to direct to water holes.
Large carpark."
Sammi Strickland
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The car park is at the end of Parakiwai Quarry Road. The last few kilometers are on a gravel road.
Yes, there is a large car park available at the end of Parakiwai Quarry Road.
The main access is via a walking track from the car park, which leads to various points of interest including the waterfall and caves.
The final stretch is a gravel road, which is generally manageable for most vehicles, but caution is advised.
Public transport options are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the quarry.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Parakiwai Quarry and its walking tracks is free.
Parakiwai Quarry is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times posted.
There is no admission fee for the waterfall, swimming hole, or the mine caves.
Yes, Parakiwai Quarry is open year-round, though conditions can vary with the weather.
While the area is known for its rock formations, specific permits for recreational rock climbing are not typically mentioned in visitor reviews. It's advisable to check local regulations if planning technical climbing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The track is mostly flat, following an old tram track. It can be wet, damp, and muddy in places, especially near the tunnel.
The full loop walk, including exploring the caves and reaching the waterfall, is approximately 11km and takes about 3-3.5 hours.
There is a picnic table and seating near the first bridge by the river. Toilet facilities are not commonly mentioned.
The tunnel is about 50-70m long and can be wet and dark. There is an alternative track that goes over it if you are uncomfortable.
Visitors have reported seeing weta in the caves and tuna (eels) in the river. You might also see various fungi, especially in autumn. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall, the historic bridge, the native bush, and the unique rock formations offer great photo opportunities. The tunnel can also be atmospheric.
The caves are dark, so a good flashlight and a camera with low-light capabilities are recommended for capturing good shots.
Morning light filtering through the trees can be beautiful. The waterfall area is also picturesque throughout the day.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local bylaws and ensure you have permission if required before flying a drone.
The muddy and wet conditions can be a challenge for equipment. Low light in the caves and tunnels also requires specific camera settings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack appropriate footwear as it can get muddy, and consider bringing a flashlight for the caves. The 11km loop might be a bit long for very young children, but shorter sections to the first bridge and swimming spot are also enjoyable. The chance to see 'tuna' (eels) in the river is also a hit with little ones.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Be prepared for the muddy sections, which add to the wild, natural feel of the quarry. The opportunity to swim in the refreshing waterfall pool is a perfect reward after a few hours on the trail. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, including interesting fungi in autumn.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Parakiwai Quarry
This rich history adds a layer of intrigue to the natural beauty of the quarry. It's not just a scenic walk; it's a journey through time. The andesitic rocks and native bush have reclaimed much of the quarry, creating a unique landscape where nature and history intertwine.
Visitors often remark on the 'hidden treasure' aspect of Parakiwai Quarry, appreciating the blend of natural wonders and historical significance. It's a place that sparks curiosity and offers a deeper understanding of the area's past.
Navigating the Tracks and Trails
Be prepared for variable conditions underfoot. The track is known to be wet, damp, and particularly muddy in certain sections, especially as you approach and pass through the tunnel. Waterproof footwear is highly recommended to ensure comfort and prevent slipping.
While the main track is clear, specific signage to the popular swimming holes and the waterfall can be minimal. Adventurous visitors might need to do a bit of exploring off the beaten path to discover these hidden gems. The effort, however, is consistently rewarded with stunning natural features.
Social
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