Pirongia Loop of Insanity.

This trail includes the peaks Pirongia and The Cone.

Pirongia Mountain is the largest area of native forest remaining close to Hamilton and is of considerable conservation value due to the variety of plant life and wildlife habitats available. Rimu and tōtara are found at lower altitudes along with tawa and tree ferns. Higher up, the forest changes; hardy plants like kāmahi, tāwari, horopito and mountain.

Find out more here

Long drops at Kaniwhaniwha Reserve (start point).

Transport and parking:

There is a decent carpark with a serviced toilet block, it can get quite full so getting there early is advised. There is a great flat area beside the stream and you can soak the joints and ligaments in one of the swimming holes when you get back from the trail. There is also a DOC campsite 2.5 km from the carpark.

Distance from Hamilton:

29 km

Driving time from Hamilton:

26 minutes

Dog friendly:

With Permit

Landowner permission required:

No

Navigation Rating:

Hard.

Navigation Tips:

As this is a DOC forest park there are orange trail markers at least every 20 - 30 m in both directions of the trails. If you find you are on pink markers you have left the main track retrace your steps. There are also signs at all intersections giving directions and track names.

Cellphone Coverage:

Unknown.

Suggested Gear List:

Thermal leggings, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map

Availability of Water:

Track wise half way is the Pahautea Hut, you can get water to drink there. Although it's only 10 km it is a hard trail.
There are number of stream crossings that could be used if you carry a filter bottle.

Seasonality Issues:

The high level tracks on Pirongia follow steep-sided ridges. Water is difficult to find, especially in summer, so be sure to take sufficient drinking water with you. Because of poorly drained soils, many of the tracks can be very muddy, especially after rain.

Hazards:

Mud, rocks, streams, steep tracks and drop-offs.

Kaniwhaniwha Stream
Beside the reserve.
Swimming and cooling off after the hard trail!