Follow the Nikau Walk on to the Bell Track and past the Kaniwhaniwha Caves. Cross the bridge near the big kahikatea and climb a spur to a series of clearings.

The last clearing signposted as the halfway point has a small stream nearby and is a good campsite.

The track becomes quite muddy at this point and continues along the ridge to the Cone (second highest point on the mountain) and then to Pāhautea Hut and campsite. It is another 30 min to the summit of Pirongia.

This track is accessed via the Nikau Walk, which starts from the Kaniwhaniwha carpark on Limeworks Loop Road.

From Hamilton take SH23 to Whatawhata. Turn left onto Te Pahu Road after the bridge over the Waipa River. Limeworks Loop Road is about 10.6 km on the right.

A good level of fitness is required for this track.

Always pack plenty of warm clothing and a waterproof raincoat. Bring a torch and spare batteries, in case you find the walk takes you longer than expected and it starts to get dark. Find a full list of what to pack

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, the tracks can be very muddy, especially after rain.

Check the Pirongia Mountain weather forecast – NIWA website.