Wangapeka via Biggs Tops

Gold was discovered in the Wangapeka valley in 1859 leading to the building of the route between 1862 and 1899 The Wangapeka traverses Kahurangi National Park, crosses two saddles, each of over 1,000 m, and travels through the beautiful beech-forested valleys of the Wangapeka, Karamea, Taipo and Little Wanganui rivers. Although the area attracted gold hunters for about 70 years, few fortunes were made. The first pastoral licence for sheep grazing in the Wangapeka valley was granted in 1851. By the late 1860s, sheep had reached the alpine grasslands of the Wangapeka tops. Grazing attempts were abandoned after 1940 because of fierce competition for feed from deer. The 1929 Murchison earthquake caused severe damage to sections of the Wangapeka Route. These sections were rebuilt during the 1930s depression including the Cecil Kings Hut.

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21 km

24 minutes

No

No

Hard.

Non-existent.

Thermal leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Compass, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries

Pretty dry from Trevor Carter Hut up to Biggs Tops

Needs a long summer day and even then at least a 4am start.

Have a backup plan if Biggs Tops is clouded over.

Beforehand stay at the Last Resort in Karamea. Its a must do!