Exploring Whiowhio Track in Kuratau
Located at the end of Te Rae Street in Kuratau, the Whiowhio Track is a scenic walk along the Kuratau River, which flows into Lake Taupō. This track is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of native bush and unique landscapes, including a grassy park with eucalyptus trees.
Walking the Track
Starting your trip, you'll walk through a patch of native bush before reaching the grassy park. From here, head right towards the water where the path becomes clear again. The track then leads back into predominantly native bush, with the Kuratau River running alongside you.
On rainy days, the track can become quite muddy. However, on a dry day, you can complete the walk in about 30 minutes. At a leisurely pace, it takes roughly an hour to return.
At the track's western end, it connects with Riverbank Drive. This allows you to create a loop by walking back through Kuratau’s quiet streets instead of retracing your steps.
How to Get There
Kurau is towards the southwest corner of Lake Taupō, accessible from State Highway 41 between Taumarunui and Turangi. To reach the Whiowhio Track from the highway, take Omori Road to Kuratau, then continue on Pihanga Road, then Hiuhiuawai Street. Follow this to the intersection with Te Rae Street; turn left for the track access and right for the park on the edge of the lake.
Other places to explore at the south end of the lake include the Tokaanu Wharf and Tokaanu Thermal Walk, and the Tongaririro River, famous for its trout fishing.
