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Arapuni Section
The Lake Arapuni Section of the Waikato River Trails is 33.8km long and can be accessed from a number of points. The southern half of this Trail at the Waipapa Dam end is a little isolated.
From the north, you can access the Trail from Arapuni Dam and, in the south, from the Waipapa Dam. This section from Arapuni includes a 3km lakeside section, 15km of country road, followed by 15km of lakeside trail.
This last 15km is largely on forestry areas where there is no road access, and from the start of this last section there is a 2km downhill trail with numerous switchbacks; its a whole lot of fun on the downhill and a challenge for those with moderate fitness on the uphill.
5km from Woatu South Road, or 10km from Waipapa Dam, is the 80m long Mangawera suspension bridge - an absolutely stunning place! The bridge is 42m above the water, so those with a real problem with heights may be challenged.
The road section of this Waikato River Trail is not recommended for walkers. The Lake Arapuni Section of Trail is an intermediate grade with a couple of steeper climbs and 1km from the Waipapa Dam is a short flight of steps where carrying your bike will be required.
Click here to view Waikato River Trails' interactive map for more information on where you can find the Arapuni Section.
Arapuni Section
Arapuni Dam to Waipapa Dam |
| Grade |
Intermediate |
| Length |
33.8km -inlcuding 15km of road trail from Jones Landing to the end of Waotu South Road |
| Access |
- Via Arapuni Dam, Arapuni Road
- Via Jones Landing, Lake Arapuni Road
- Via Waipapa Dam off Waipapa Road
- Alternative parking is at Jim Barnetts Reserve, Waotu South Road. |
Highlights of the Arapuni Section
- Jones Landing Lookout
- Barnetts Reserve
- 80m Mangawera Suspension Bridge
- Waipapa Dam
|