4th Sept Postponed due to Level 3 - new Date 11th Sept

We are now in level 3 for one week which prevents this event from running. Assuming we move to level 2 mid next week then this event can run in Level 2.

Please reply to me with your interest in the new date of the Saturday 11th September or other Saturdays in Sept so we can bring this event to run. Cheers David

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Te Aroha Overview

At 952 metres, Te Aroha mountain is the highest point in the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park. A number of tracks lead up around this distinctive landmark and the abandoned mines and mine trails nearby. Additional short walks and mountain bike trails around Te Aroha domain or sections of the Hauraki Rail Trail centre on Te Aroha.

There are 3 options for our adventure day to suit a wide range of abilities and ages.

Option 1 – Climb Mt Te Aroha Summit (~ 3hrs return)

There are a number of access points to climb the summit of Te Aroha but due to the season being winter and weather could be inclement we have chosen this option.

David Partis has a customer who lives part way up the mountain road. Michael Barker is an artist and local schoolteacher (http://www.michaelbarker.co.nz/pages/location.php) and lives at 196 Tui Road, Te Aroha which is the Mountain Road.

Michael has offered for us to meet at his place and walk up the road to the Summit. The walk takes on average 1 and half hours to summit. His suggestion is people walk along the partly sealed and metal summit road to access the top.

Depending on conditions warm clothing is a must as the summit can be close to zero degrees.

Option 2 - Low Level Loop (2hr 5.5km return)

This option in the Waiorongomai Valley is the Low Level Loop. This well graded track takes in several significant sites around the lower Waiorongomai goldfields. The track winds up the valley through regenerating bush, crossing a few small streams and passing by a small tunnel and a pipeline.

The track then joins the Piako County Tramway and travels along the tramway for a short distance then begins the decent to the carpark below.

Walk time approximately 2 hours return.

https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/bay-of-plenty/places/kaimai-mamaku-conservation-park/things-to-do/tracks/waiorongomai-valley-tramping-tracks/

The third option if you are not in to walking. Te Aroha is at the centre of the Hauraki Rail Trail and two tracks head out of Te Aroha on the trail.

The suggestion is to ride from Te Aroha to the Kaimai Air Crash Memorial which is approximately 20km each way. There is a Café south about a 20 mins ride from Te Aroha called Forge Café so this could be a stop on the way out or the way back.

https://haurakirailtrail.co.nz/choose-your-ride/te-aroha-to-matamata

There are 2 options.

Spa Option 1 – Te Aroha Mineral Spas – private spa experience 2 people per spa.

The plan is to book a number of Spas for the Soak in the natural, silky mineral water that has made Te Aroha famous for over 100 years. Relax and unwind in our beautiful wooden tubs that reflect our beautiful natural environment, nestled at the foot of Mount Te Aroha.

All of our spas have a private room with changing area and ensuite for ultimate relaxation and for your comfort you can adjust the temperature at any time. For your safety remember to always bring a friend, there is a minimum of two adults per spa. Bookings essential.

https://www.tearohamineralspas.co.nz/services

Spa Option 2 – No 2 Bath House/Swim Zone

The No.2 Bath House is open to the public for 30 minutes at the start of every hour during Swim Zone Te Aroha's opening hours. After each session the No.2 Bath House is closed for 30 minutes to allow the water to regenerate.

Private sessions are available on request and booking for these is required.

https://www.swimzonepools.co.nz/our-facilities/number-2-bath-house

At Swimzone there is a main outdoor pool which is set to 33.5 degrees in winter.

https://www.swimzonepools.co.nz/our-facilities/swim-zone-te-aroha

Proposed time: 4pm – recommended only 30 mins in a heated pool

Dinner Options - Proposed time: 5:30pm

There are a number of dinner options in Te Aroha and I have had by good advice from a local that the Indian Restaurant is the best.

Taj Indian Restaurant - 120 Whitaker Street, Te Aroha https://www.tajindiantearoha.com/

A group booking is essential.