In our 4K driving tour, we drive from Waihi to Paeroa via the Karangahake Gorge. We start off at one end of Waihi, drive along the main street then go along a palm tree-lined highway that is the end of Waihi. Just outside of Waihi we go past the small village of Waikino (we only see its hotel / pub) and then go through the Karangahake Gorge with its beautiful river winding the highway. Before long we arrive at Paeroa, passing the iconic L&P bottle to the left at the entrance of town and then go along the main road until we reach the gazebo at the other end of town.
The distance between Waihi and Paeroa is 21km (13 miles) and takes around 20 minutes by car.
This is our first attempt at filming in 4K while driving in New Zealand. Ange was holding the camera the whole time while I was driving. We noticed later that at some moments there is a reflection of the dashboard in the video due to the sun being directly in front of us. What we will need to do is find a way to stick out 4k camera to the windscreen to avoid any reflections – and also so Ange doesn’t have to hold onto it for so long. 🙂
Karangahake Gorge – Historical Significance
Karangahake was once the bustling heart of New Zealand’s gold mining industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The gorge was part of the Ohinemuri Goldfields, where thousands flocked in hopes of striking it rich. Today, the remains of this era are preserved in:
- The Windows Walk: A popular trail that takes you through mining tunnels, where you can peer through “windows” in the rock to view the Waitawheta River below. The walk includes remnants of mining machinery and structures, offering a tangible connection to the past.
- The Karangahake Rail Tunnel: An impressive feat of engineering, this nearly one-kilometer-long tunnel is now part of a walking and cycling track. Walking through it with a torch provides a eerie yet exhilarating experience.
- Victoria Battery: Here, you can explore the largest quartz crushing plant for gold extraction in Australasia. The site includes tramway remnants and kilns, presenting a stark reminder of the industrial past.
Nature’s Embrace
Beyond its history, Karangahake Gorge is a haven for nature enthusiasts:
- The Karangahake Gorge Walkway: This trail follows the Ohinemuri River, showcasing the gorge’s natural beauty. The suspension bridges across the river add an element of adventure.
- Bird Watching: The area is rich with native birds. Keep an eye out for tui with their beautiful song and the ever-friendly fantails.
- Flora: The native bush, with towering ponga trees (silver ferns), kauri, and various mosses and ferns, provides a lush backdrop for hikes.
Adventure Activities
For those seeking more than a leisurely walk:
River Activities: The Ohinemuri and Waitawheta Rivers are perfect for kayaking or a refreshing swim in natural pools.
Mountain Biking: The Karangahake Gorge section of the Hauraki Rail Trail is a favorite among cyclists, offering both easy rides and more challenging paths.
Karangahake Gorge Speed Limit
Since the road going through the gorge is narrow and winding, there is currently a speed limit of 80 km/h.
Also remember that we drive on the LEFT side of the road in New Zealand.
Photos of Driving between Waihi and Paeroa
On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Goldfields Heritage Railway runs a historic train between Waihi and Waikino. There is café at the Waikino Station. Alternatively, you can take time to visit the gorge and historic sites, then return to Waihi on a later train.
Nestled in the Karangahake Gorge is the newly restored Waikino Hotel – Bar & Kitchen which offers thirst quenching beverages and homestyle soul food. (Photo Below)
