11 October 2026
Showers, clearing to fine spells early afternoon, but returning this evening. Westerlies, dying out this evening.
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1 / 67Karioi area
Karioi Track
Karioi is an ancient volcano and the views from the summit are spectacular. This is the steeper but more scenic of the two summit tracks to Mt Karioi.
Distance
8.2 km
Walking time
5 - 6 hours return
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Karioi Track multiple slips
Weather outlook
Waikato forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 4:35 pm
12 October 2026
Scattered rain, possibly heavy, clearing by evening as fine spells develop. Clouding over again in the evening with drizzle. Westerlies.
13 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies developing in the morning.
14 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies developing in the morning.
15 October 2026
A period of rain with heavy falls, otherwise a few showers. Northerlies, turning westerly in the morning.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Karioi Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Karioi Track
Mt Karioi Track is the steeper, but more scenic, of the two summit tracks. Once over the stile at the start of the track, it’s all uphill, but there are plenty of good vantage points to stop, catch your breath and admire the view. After passing through a grove of kānuka, the track climbs up a grassy slope before reaching the main ridge. Chains and ladders have been installed to help negotiate the occasional rocky outcrop. At a large rocky bluff the track sidles around to the north for a short distance then climbs steadily to the ridge. At this point, a short 10-minute side-track takes you to a lookout providing good views across Raglan Harbour. Back on the main track it is another hour to the summit (756 m) along an undulating ridge. The vegetation along the ridge has been sculptured by the strong prevailing westerly wind. It'll take around 3 to 3.5 hours to ascend, and another 2 hours to return. Alternatively, take Wairake Track down and have someone pick you up at the end.
Essential information for Karioi Track
The high level tracks on Karioi follow steep-sided ridges. Water is difficult to find, especially in summer, so be sure to take sufficient drinking water with you.
Getting there for Karioi Track
Mt Karioi Track starts at Te Toto Gorge, 13 km from Raglan. Note, the last 4 km of Whaanga Road are unsealed. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there. If combining with Wairake Track, head to the end of Karioi Road, off Ruapuke Road. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel
Dog access for Karioi Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Karioi Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.