The Pinnacles Track (Kauaeranga Kauri Trail)

Out and back

Upon reaching the Pinnacles summit at 759 metres, your physical efforts are magnificently rewarded. You’ll stand atop the jagged volcanic peaks with expansive, 360-degree views stretching across the dramatic Coromandel ranges, the sparkling Firth of Thames, the Hauraki Gulf, and the vast Hauraki Plains.

Because of the steep drops, vertical ladders, and highly technical scrambles near the top, this walk is not dog-friendly and is not suitable for young kids.

Highlights & Must-See Features

• The Summit Climb: Scaling the vertical ladders and scrambling up the rocky peak to reach the top is an absolute thrill for adventure seekers.
• The 360-Degree Views: On a clear day, the view from the summit is unparalleled, offering a visual feast of the entire Coromandel Peninsula and the oceans beyond.
• Historic Stone Steps: Walking on the actual pathways built by pioneering bushmen over a hundred years ago connects you directly to New Zealand's rugged past.
• The Pinnacles Hut: Even if you are only doing a day hike, checking out the modern, 80-bunk Pinnacles Hut (the largest DOC hut in New Zealand) is a must. If you book well in advance, staying overnight allows you to experience a magical sunset or sunrise from the summit peak.

Getting There

The trailhead is located near the coastal settlement of Waiomu on the Coromandel Peninsula. To get there, drive to the very end of Kauaeranga Valley Road, which lies approximately 9km past the Department of Conservation (DOC) Kauaeranga Valley Visitor Centre.

Please note that the final stretch of road past the visitor centre is unsealed, so drive to the conditions. At the road end, you will find a large, gravel-surfaced car park, which serves as the official trailhead. The car park has pit-style toilets and a lovely picnic area. Because this is one of the most popular hikes in the region, the 50-spot parking lot can fill up very quickly on weekends and during the summer holidays, so arriving early is highly recommended.

Wildlife Spotting

As you make your way through the dense canopy, keep your ears open for the beautiful songs of native forest birds. The inquisitive fantail (pīwakawaka) will likely flutter alongside you, catching insects stirred up by your boots, while the distinctive chime of the tūī echoes through the trees.

Look up into the high branches of the rātā and tawa trees, and you might spot the large kererū (New Zealand pigeon) clumsily feeding on berries. As dusk falls, the eerie, comforting call of the ruru (morepork) begins to echo through the valley. If you are lucky enough to be staying overnight at the Pinnacles Hut, keep your ears peeled during the night—the occasional rustle in the undergrowth could be a wild North Island brown kiwi foraging for insects.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Pinnacles Track is a spectacular walk to undertake in Spring, Summer, Autumn, or Winter.

• Summer brings long, warm days and the best chance of clear summit views, but the trail can get very hot and busy.
• Autumn offers cooler hiking temperatures and stunning golden light.
• Winter and Spring bring crisp, fresh air and fewer crowds, though the track can become muddy and the rock scrambles near the top can get very slippery when wet.

Regardless of the season, the weather in the Coromandel can change rapidly. The summit is highly exposed to strong winds and sudden rain, so you must pack for all conditions.

• Sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip (essential for the wet stone steps and rock scrambles).
• At least 2 litres of water per person.
• High-energy food and snacks.
• A windproof and waterproof jacket.
• Warm layers (it can get surprisingly cold at the summit, even in summer).
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat) for the exposed ridge sections.

If you are planning a day walk, it is best to start by 8:00 AM to ensure you have plenty of daylight to complete the 7.5-hour return journey without rushing.

Local & Regional Context

The Kauaeranga Valley holds deep cultural and historical significance. For centuries, local Māori used the valley as a pathway through the rugged Coromandel Range.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the valley was transformed by European settlers. It became the hub of a massive kauri logging industry. Millions of metres of timber were taken from these hills, and the remains of the historic wooden driving dams—used to flush giant logs down the river to the sea—can still be found scattered throughout the wider park. Today, the area is a protected conservation park, where the native forest is slowly recovering to its former glory.

After the Walk

After tackling a challenging 826-metre elevation gain, you will have worked up quite an appetite. Head back down the unsealed road to the Kauaeranga Valley Cafe, located inside the DOC Visitor Centre (9km from the trailhead).

This charming, seasonal cafe is the perfect post-hike sanctuary. Here, you can sink into a chair with a hot cup of Supreme coffee, indulge in delicious homemade baking, or cool down with a cold drink and a well-deserved ice cream. It is the ultimate way to celebrate conquering one of New Zealand’s finest trails!