Lower Silica Rapids Walk

The track sets out by crossing Whakapapanui Stream at the top end of the Whakapapa Holiday Park. It then meanders through beech forest. When you reach the junction with Whakapapanui Walk continue ahead towards Silica Rapids. The track soon crosses a bubbling stream with a gold-toned bed. A short time later, the track emerges from the bush and climbs to a swampy area of wire rush, tangle fern and red tussock. A boardwalk has been built here to not only keep your feet dry, but more importantly to protect this fragile ecosystem. On a clear day you'll have great views up the mountain. After passing the Whakapapaiti Track turn-off on your right, the track turns left to follow the stream up through dense bush to Punaruku Falls. Here, after heavy rain, Tawhainui Stream tumbles over the edge of an ancient lava flow. A little further uphill, the stream bed widens and forms a series of shallow terraces coated in creamy white deposits – the famous Silica Rapids. When the stream emerges from lava cliffs at the head of the valley the water is rich in aluminium and silicate minerals. As the stream gathers speed and the water is aerated, the alumino-silicates are deposited on the stream bed forming this interesting effect. From here, return the way you came, or continue on the Upper Silica Rapids Walk and return along Bruce Road - taking care along the way as there is no footpath. This loop is 7km, and takes 2.5 hours.

The track starts from Whakapapa Village just up the hill from the Holiday Park. If just visiting for the day, park opposite the Visitor Centre, and then walk 250m up the road. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.

Find tips, guides and how-to videos to help you prepare for your walk at mountainsafety.org.nz

No dogs.