Day 1 – The Buried River to Puniu Lodge
Distance: 11.5km | Time: 2.5 – 5 hrs | Difficulty: Easy to Technical (options available)
Your adventure begins at 10am with a ‘Meet & Greet’ at the Red Woolshed. Our friendly team will be there to welcome you, serve a light tasty lunch, and prepare you for your time at Real Native.
By 11am, you would have set off with your day packs across rolling farmland, which allows you to brush shoulders with the neighbours – The Pureora Forest Park. Think towering Tawa, ancient Rimu, Nikau Palms, Matai and Miro… and more.
Before long, you’ll arrive at the entrance to the mysterious and magical Buried River. A whimsical stretch of the Mangatutu Stream that resides underground. A natural phenomena and experience like no other. While this section of the trail is for the more advanced adventurerers, a well-marked detour allows walkers to bypass the river and reconnect with the main track.
From here you will approach the main woolshed and cattleyards, and head up past the airstrip to Round Bush. A refreshingly easy and open leg of the trail that will guide you towards the Puniu River and offer the first taste of the Real Native on Leveson’s Loop. Shortly you will descend into the gallery and trace the Puniu River, leading you directly to your first night’s accommodation.
Night One: Puniu Lodge — a modern, eco-conscious riverside retreat.
Day 2 – Puniu Lodge to The Garden of Eden
Distance: 10 – 18km | Time: 2 – 8 hrs (route dependent) | Difficulty: Flexible
Approach Day 2 at your own pace after perusing the farm map. Take a leisurely stroll up the main 4×4 track leading you directly to the night two accommodations; or choose one of the full day options.
The routes offer a selection of distances and intensities depending on your appetite for exercise and adventure! Ranging from 10km to 18km, made up of single-file bush tracks, open grassland trails, and lush canopied passages.
Today’s adventure will include a visit to the historic Fencers Hut, the Deer Sanctuary, the Māori Terraces, and an almighty climb to the top of the Hill – marking the mid-point of the longest walk. The stunning views will take you past Mount Pirongia to the Bombay Hills in the North, around Maungatautari Sanctuary Mountain and out to the Kaimai Ranges in the East, to Mt Pureora and Rangitoto to the South and the distant Herangi Ranges on the West Coast. The 360 degree views are simply stunning on a fine day and are a popular highlight of Day 2.
From here the trails are relatively easy with a relaxing scenic meander South, as you approach the accommodations for night Two, situated in the mesmerising Garden of Eden.
Night Two: The Shepherds Rest – where authentic stockman’s camp meets modern luxury.
Day 3 – The Garden of Eden to the Exit Shed
Distance: 12.5km | Time: 2.5 – 5 hrs | Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Day Three’s morning sunrise will bring the opportunity to experience a moving symphony known as the ‘Dawn Chorus’. Whether that means sitting peacefully on your own private deck sipping a fresh coffee, or venturing through Leveson’s Loop for a chance encounter with a real Kōkako – the choice is yours.
Leveson’s Loop is a true masterpiece, allowing unimpeded access into 250ha of private untouched ancient Rain Forest. The journey will take you through Kōkako Country, the Cathedral (a personal favourite of ours) and on to the legendary Ferny Flats.
Further on, you’ll cross some of the most productive undulating pastures of the farm, before joining onto the main track to head up to the satellite yards. A peaceful wander down the grassy paths of main-ridge will continue to recharge the spirits as you near the exit shed. Your last encounter crossing the Puniu River will allow the opportunity to visit a historic fortified pā site, before crossing the road and traversing the last ridge toward the journey’s end.
Here at the exit shed, you will be greeted with a refreshing beverage, a quick snack and the last opportunity for a bit of rest and relaxation before heading home.
$250 deposit to confirm booking, balance due 6 weeks prior to arrival
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The official walk map is available to download via the Great Hikes App, under ‘Private Walks’ – use the App Store buttons to download, or Search for ‘Great Hikes’ in your chosen App Store.
Enjoy live offline GPS maps, day-by-day sections, track elevation & more.
