Karangahake Railway Tunnel Walk – A Complete Guide

Located within the scenic Karangahake Gorge, the Karangahake Railway Tunnel Walk is a pictursque journey through history and nature. This unique trail invites explorers to wander through a 1,100-metre-long tunnel, once a vital part of New Zealand’s railway network, and now a fascinating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

Join us as we delve into everything you need to know about this remarkable trail, from its storied past to the breathtaking vistas that await along the way.

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Where is Karangahake Gorge?

The gorge is situated on State Highway 2 between Paeroa and Waihi on New Zealand‘s North Island. It is easy to get to from Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula, and Tauranga.

How do you get to Karangahake Gorge?

It will take about 2 hours by car from Auckland along SH1 and then SH2. It is 5 minutes past Paeroa.

When is the best time to visit?

There isn’t a best time to do this walk. A fine day would be better though to make the most of the stunning scenery.

Where can you park?

There are two car parks; one by the Karangahake Hall and the other is the Karangahake Domain car park. Both are just off State Highway 2.

We parked at Karangahake Hall as it is the closest one to the rail tunnel.

History of the Karangahake Railway Tunnel

The Karangahake Railway Tunnel dates back to the early 20th century. Constructed as part of the Waihi railway line, the tunnel was completed in 1905, serving as a crucial link in New Zealand’s growing railway network. This line was primarily established to transport gold from the Waihi Gold Mine to the port in Thames, playing a significant role in the region’s mining boom.

The tunnel itself stretches for 1,086 metres, cutting through the rugged terrain of the gorge. Its construction was a remarkable engineering feat for the time, requiring the skills and labour of many workers who braved challenging conditions to carve through the solid rock. The railway not only facilitated the transport of valuable ore but also connected isolated communities, contributing to the economic and social development of the area.

After several decades of service, the railway line was eventually closed in 1978, as road transport became more prevalent and the gold mining industry declined. However, the tunnel and surrounding tracks were preserved, and in the 1990s, they were repurposed as part of a scenic walking and cycling trail, now known as the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway.

Today, visitors to the tunnel can walk through this piece of living history, experiencing the echoes of the past while enjoying the natural beauty of the gorge.

Karangahake Railway Tunnel Walk

Length and walk time of Railway Tunnel Loop

The Railway Tunnel walk is a 2.5km loop trail that will take around 90 minutes to complete. It is an easy walk but not suitable for wheelchairs.

The walking track

If you start at Karangahake Hall, take a look at the old battery before heading up to the bridge.

You will cross the pedestrian bridge over the river and highway before heading into the rail tunnel.

Despite the tunnel being 1086m long, the time went quickly, and we enjoyed the walk through it. There are lights but it can still be quite dark and there were some puddles of water when we went. It is definitely a great feature to have on a walking trail.

Once out of the tunnel, you cross another bridge back over the river. Turn right and follow the Ohinemuri River.

It’s a beautiful scenic walk, and there are plenty of opportunities for photogrtaphy enthusiasts.

You then come to a swing bridge that takes you across the Waitawheta River. There is a second swing bridge that leads into the main car park. Cross this for toilets and water. There are also rubbish bins provided here.

To carry on the walk, cross back over the bridge, turn right and follow the river back to the Karangahake Hall car park.

Windows Walk

You can extend this walk by taking the Windows Walk which starts just before the Swing Bridge and finishes the other side of it. This trail is also 2.5km and will take an additional hour and a half.

Tips

• Take a torch or use your phone light in the tunnel
• Make sure you have plenty of water for your walk
• Dogs are not allowed on this part of the trail
• Toilets and water can be found at Karangahake Domain car park
• Remember your camera
• Allow enough time to explore the area

Map of Karangahake Gorge

Karangahake Trails Brochure

You can download a copy of the brochure on the Department of Conversation’s website. This also shows a map of the walking trail and where the car parks are located.

Other Hikes on New Zealand’s North island

New Zealand has some of best scenery in the world and what better way to see it than on a hike. The Karangahake Trail and Cathedral Cove Walk are some of the best hikes in the North Island.

Accommodation

We stayed in a 2-bedroom suite at the Best Western in Rotorua and would stay there again. It was centrally based, good value, and had a separate kitchen, dining and lounge area. The resort included free Wi-Fi, mini golf and a heated pool with spa pool.

As usual, we booked through Booking.com due to their competitive pricing and free cancellation on most properties.

Read more about the property here.