NO FURTHER REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED
PLEASE ENSURE THOSE WHO ARE REGISTERED HAVE CORRECT GEAR - INCLUDING APPROPRIATE FOOTWEAR (NOT SNEAKERS) , FOOD, PLENTY OF WATER, PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT, WET WEATHER CLOTHING, WARM CLOTHING AND CHANGE OF FOOTWEAR FOR RETURN TRIP IN BUS - And cash payment of $20 members /$25 non members
The Ōmanawanui Special – Karamatura, Puriri Ridge, Ōmanawanui Tracks (& Optional Whatipu Caves)
Please ensure correct cash $20 members/$25 non members
Trip Date: Sunday, 3 August
Departure: 8:30AM from The Strand, Takapuna
Return: Expect to be back at Takapuna between 5–6PM
Trip Overview
This trip links together three outstanding tracks—Karamatura, Puriri Ridge, and Ōmanawanui—for a full day of classic west coast tramping: native bush, stream-side walking, ridge climbs, and sweeping coastal views.
The group will split into two parties (Distance and Easy), starting from different points and finishing together at Whatipu, where the club bus will pick us up. Both routes end on a high—the stunning Ōmanawanui Track, a 3 km ridgeline walk offering panoramic views over the Manukau Harbour and Whatipu coastline, with glimpses of Mt Taranaki on clear days. Expect staircases, historic pā sites, regenerating bush, and plenty of birdlife.
Leg day alert! Everyone should have a moderate level of fitness and confidence managing stair climbs and descents—the Ōmanawanui Track features a mildly ridiculous 2,420 box steps over 2.5 km, thanks to a 2021 upgrade. Your legs will notice.
If time and leadership allow, the Easy Party may also have the chance to visit the Whatipu Caves—a short 1 km return walk to explore sea-carved limestone formations. If you're keen to check them out, bring a headlamp.
Distance Party
Start: Karamatura Carpark, Huia
Route: Karamatura → Donald McLean → Puriri Ridge → Ōmanawanui → Whatipu
Distance: around 11-13 km
Grade: Medium–Hard
Time: 6 to 6.5 hours
Elevation Gain: ~700 m
What to Expect:
-
Peaceful bush and waterfalls along the Karamatura Track
-
Steady climbing via Donald McLean and Puriri Ridge
-
A dramatic finale across the iconic Ōmanawanui ridgeline
-
Ideal for trampers with good fitness and confidence on uneven terrain
Easy Party
Start: Mt Donald McLean Carpark
Route: Puriri Ridge → Ōmanawanui → Whatipu
Distance: ~6.5 km
Grade: Easy–Moderate
Time: 3 to 3.5 hours
What to Expect:
-
A shorter but scenic walk with plenty of highlights
-
Gentle ups and downs on Puriri Ridge before joining Ōmanawanui
-
The same stunning ridgeline and sea views, at a relaxed pace
-
Optional side trip to the Whatipu Caves (approx. 1 km return / 20–30 mins) from the carpark at the end
-
A great option for those new to the club or easing into longer tramps
What to Bring:
-
Daypack with lunch, snacks, and at least 1.5L of water
-
Waterproof and warm layers – the west coast weather can be changeable
-
Trail running shoes or tramping boots with good grip
-
Walking poles (optional but helpful on steeper sections)
-
Sunscreen, hat, and personal first aid kit
-
Headlamp (if planning to explore the caves)
** Non-members: Please contact the organisers to check suitability of the tramp as below:
feel free to send an SMS or WhatsApp message to one of the organisers and they’ll get back to you when they can:
Nikki – 021 0224 5929
Anthony – 021 0906 7939
Cost: $20 members/$25 non members
Track Care Reminder:
This area is within a Kauri Dieback Protection Zone. All boots and gear must be cleaned before and after the trip. Please stay on formed tracks at all times.
Please ensure you have clean footwear for the trip home in the bus
Day trip policy: Minimum number of participants for trip to proceed is 10 for trips less than $20 and 12 for trip more than $20.
Maps:Online/GPS/Printable
