KARAMATURA WHATIPU RETURN (26KM HIKE)

WELCOME EVERYONE
Here's a great workout, 26km walk from Karamatura carpark, up to Mt Donald McLean, toward Whatipu carpark, then all the way back the same way to Karamatura carpark again. Quite a few ups and downs.

SATURDAY 5TH OCTOBER
9:45am Arrive at Karamatura carpark. Near 1320 Huia Road in Huia, also near Karamatura campground. If this carpark is full you can park on the east side of 1320 Huia Road, next to Huia Settlers Museum.
10:00am Begin walk: Karamatura Track, Donald McLean Track, Mt Donald McLean Walk, Mt Donald McLean summit, back down to the Puriri Ridge Track junction, Puriri Ridge Track, Omanawanui Track, down stairs toward Whatipu carpark. Turn around and go back up the stairs and walk back the same way to Karamatura carpark.

The whole walk may take 8 hours or greater, finishing at 6pm or later, so bring a headlight.

GEAR
Headlight.
Backpack.
Pack liner to waterproof gear.
Food and water.
Warm-when-wet breathable layers (e.g. merino shirt, merino jumper, puffy synthetic-filled jacket).
Rain jacket.
Hiking shoes or boots.
Emergency blanket/bag/shelter.

GETTING THERE
Use the comments section below to offer a lift or ask for a lift.
Suggest passengers give driver $10 each if coming from e.g. the city.

BEST PRACTICE
Your safety is your responsibility.
Tell someone your plans.
We will stay together.

NOTE
I will be running in the 5km Parkrun event at Western Springs from 8am, if anyone would like to join that too. After the run I'll drive to Karamatura carpark to arrive at around 9:45am.