Grade: 1
Time: 8:30 am
Meet: Wharf Street, Paeroa
Duration: 3 Hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year's ECHO Walking Festival - Wharf Street to Historical Maritime Park and Museum and River Boat Cruise.
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes.
The Walk, Museum and River Boat tour will take 3 hours to return back to the carpark.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 4
Time: 8:45 am - Park up for a 9:00am departure on a shuttle to Te Aroha
Meet: Meet at the end of Hot Springs Road, Katikati (toilet onsite)
Duration: 6-6.5 hours
We are so pleased you have registered and paid to attend this year’s Tuahu Track Walk with the ECHO Walking Festival on Tuesday 1st April 2025. We look forward to sharing this experience with you.
Below are further details to help you plan out the day.
This is a Grade 4 walk and can be seen as a strenuous walk.
The walk takes us thought farm and steep forest bush land climb along the Waihou Valley Pine, weaving up the steep challenging western side to the North South Track, up to the summit, where there are beautiful views of both Eastern and Western sides. We cross the Te Rereatukahia stream (with lots of uneven surfaces), before descending back down the eastern side of the Kaimai’s, past mature kauri trees and back to Hot Springs Road (where we started and where our cars are parked).
We do not recommend this walk if you have any injuries or are prone to strains. If you are in doubt, pain or have hurt yourself prior to the day, we recommend you let us know before 10:00am, Tuesday 25th March 2025 to receive a full refund. We will not be refunding tickets after this time due to ECHO being charged full cost for the van cost. You can, however, provide us with the name and details of your replacement person in case you on sell the walk experience.
You will be required to use your own body strength to climb steep ascents and the ability to navigate tree roots on the paths.
The van trip takes about 1 hour and 15mins to get to the starting place and the walk is approximately 5 hours over the Kaimai’s.
We are lucky to have two guides on hand on this day. 1 x lead and 1 x tail end. The guides are there to make sure everyone is safe throughout the day and wearing high vis jackets, so they are visible. One guide will hold a basic first aid kit.
Please bring your own morning tea / lunch / snacks / medications (epi pens) and / or antihistamine tablets, hat and plenty of water. A backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible trekking boots, trekking poles (if desired), and a rain jacket in case needed.
There is no toilet on the Te Aroha side (only at the Hot Springs Road end (where we start). If needing to go during the walk, you will need to be creative, as guides will not be able to assist you with this.
Please note: This trip is very much weather dependent and if we are restricted by weather, we will send out confirmation on mobile and email on Monday 31st March 2025 (morning), the day before the trip, based on the weather forecast and the safety is determined through the conditions predicted on the hill.
Optional enjoyment at your own leisure. After the walk you are a stone’s throw away from Sapphire Springs Mineral Pools and after this strenuous walk, you may want to pop into there for a soak. You will find this at: You have Sapphire Springs Hot Pools right around the corner from the carpark at 274 Hot Springs Road, Katikati.
In the meantime, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Kylie from the ECHO Walking Festival Committee
kylie@katchkatikati.org.nz
(07) 549-5250
Grade: 4
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Waihi Beach Water Reservoir carpark, top of Pacific Road, Waihi Beach
Duration: 4 to 4.5 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Orokawa Trig Walk
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 4 walk and will take around 4 hours. A good level of fitness is required.
You should be prepared for uneven surfaces with some steep parts and possible short section 3-4m of rope decent. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks/lunch and a rain jacket in case of light rain on the day. If we have heavy rain forecast, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1
Time: 11:30 am
Meet: Wharf Street, Paeroa
Duration: 3 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year's ECHO Walking Festival - Wharf Street River Boat Cruise to Historical Maritime Park and Museum.
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes.
The River Boat Tour, Museum and Walk will take 3 hours to return back to the carpark.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1
Time: 9:45 am - Park up at the Arts Junction for a 10:00am departure
Meet: The Arts Junction, 36 Main Road, Katikati (toilet onsite)
Duration: 1 hour
We are so pleased you have registered and paid to attend this year’s Katikati Mural Tour Walk with the ECHO Walking Festival on Wednesday 2nd April 2025. We look forward to sharing this experience with you.
Below are further details to help you plan out the day.
This is a Grade 1 walk for the art / mural enthusiasts and a wonderful opportunity to learn about the murals and Katikati towns history with a guided tour of some of the 80 plus pieces of art in the collection. Tours only take an hour and are mainly around the centre of Katikati.
If you have hurt yourself prior to the day, we recommend you let us know before 9:00am, Friday 28th March 2025 to receive a full refund. We will not be refunding tickets after this time due to ECHO being charged full cost for a group booking.
Katikati Open Air Art Tour guide will be taking you on behalf of ECHO Walking Festival and will hold a basic first aid kit.
Please bring your own morning tea / snacks / medications (epi pens) and / or antihistamine tablets, hat and plenty of water. A backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible shoes for this street walk and a rain jacket in case needed. There are public toilets available at the Arts Junction before you set off on the tour.
Please note: This trip is very much weather dependent and if we are governed by weather, we will send out confirmation on mobile and email on Monday 31st March 2025 (morning), based on the weather forecast and the safety is determined through the conditions predicted.
In the meantime, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Kylie from the ECHO Walking Festival Committee
kylie@katchkatikati.org.nz
(07) 549-5250
Grade: 1-2
Time: 10:00 am
Meet: George Street car park by the Gilmour Reserve, Waihi
Duration: 2 hours return
Thank you for registering your name for this year's ECHO Walking Festival – Union Hill Walk
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
Please wear suitable footwear and we also ask you to also bring a waterproof jacket/warm jacket for the tour.
The walk can take approx 2 hours.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 2
Time: 8:45 am - Leave at 9:00 am sharp
Meet: Corner of Port Road and Harbour View Rd at Te Titoki Reserve, Whangamata
Duration: 5.5 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Luck at Last
Our lovely guides from Whangamata Ramblers Club will be guiding the walk and we really appreciate it!
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, a jacket, hat, food and water. The walk takes approx 5.5 hours.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 4
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Waihi Beach Water Reservoir carpark at the top of Pacific Road, Waihi Beach
Duration: 3 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Wires Track Loop
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 4 walk and will take around 3 hours. A good level of fitness is required.
You should be prepared for uneven surfaces with some steep parts. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks/lunch and a rain jacket in case of light rain on the day. If we have heavy rain forecast, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 3-4
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Dickey Flat Adventure Camp (189 Dickey Flat Rd), Waikino. From there we will arrange car pooling among the group.
Duration: 4 hours return (includes river crossings)
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Kauri Walk to Dickey Flat
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, walking poles recommended, a jacket, water and food. The walk takes 4 hours and includes river crossings.
Medium to high level of fitness required to be able to keep up with the group. Track experience preferred.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 2-3
Time: 10:00 am
Meet: Waihi Bicycle Hire for bike fitting, 126 Seddon Street, Waihi.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Owharoa Falls Heritage Bike and Train Ride
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable biking shoes, a jacket, snack or light lunch and water. The bike and train ride takes 3-4 hours.
A moderate level of fitness and good bike riding skills will be required for this event.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the bike and train ride PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your ride!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 5
Time: 6:45 am - For 7:00am departure (Please be on time as the boat won’t be waiting for late arrivals)
Meet: Tauranga Bridge Marina, 101 Te Awanui Drive, Harbour Bridge Causeway, Tauranga
Duration: 10 hours
We are so pleased you have registered and paid to attend this year’s Tuhua/Mayor Island Walk with the ECHO Walking Festival on Saturday, 5th April 2025 (with a rain date of Saturday 12th April 2025). We look forward to sharing this experience with you.
Below are further details to help you plan out the day.
Boat Name: Orca Wild Adventures
This is a Grade 5 walk. We cannot reiterate enough that this is not for the faint hearted. The guides have been preparing (as this is a strenuous walk) and you need a high level of fitness to be able to complete the shortened path and in a timely manner.
We do not recommend this walk if you have any injuries, heart conditions or are prone to strains. If you are in doubt, pain or have hurt yourself prior to the day, we recommend you let us know before 9:00am, Friday 28th March 2025 to receive a full refund. Please note, we will try our best to refund you if we are successful to fill your space, however we will not be refunding tickets after this time due to ECHO being charged full cost for the boat and island landing.
The boat trip over to the island, takes 1.5 to 2 hours (depending on the sea conditions) and the walk itself 5 hours. All going to plan we will leave the island again around 3:30-4pm and be back in Tauranga 6pm-7pm. We apologise in advance if the timings change. As you can imagine, we are reliant on weather and sea conditions and on all registered walkers, being able to keep up with the pace of the guides (being a Grade 5 walk).
We are lucky to have three guides on hand on this day. 1 x lead, 1 x middle and 1 x tail end. The guides are there to make sure everyone is safe throughout the day and wearing high vis jackets, so they are visible. One guide will hold a satellite phone and two small first aid kits.
Please bring your own morning tea / lunch / snacks / medications (epi pens) and / or antihistamine tablets, hat and plenty of water. A backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible trekking boots, trekking poles if desired, and a rain jacket in case needed. Seasickness pills are highly recommended for the journey over on the boat.
You are allowed coffee and food on the boat; however, we ask if you can please keep from littering rubbish off the boat and especially away from the waterways. The restaurant at the Marina (called Salinity) will not be open until 9:00am, so you won’t be able to pick up a coffee from the marina prior to departure). Best to do it before you arrive at the Marina. There is a toilet on the boat.
Again, this is not for the faint hearted. You will be required to use your own body strength to climb steep ascents and vertical stairs, potential crawling on hands and knees and as well as a short descend with a rope (all being part of the walk).
Your bags will be checked by the island caretaker/kaitiaki for biosecurity reasons only, as they want to keep this island pest free. We do ask if you can please clean all your equipment before coming on the island – Shoes, poles, bags, jackets etc – Simply to speed up the process on arrival on the island. Delays will hold us up on arriving back to Tauranga at the end of the day. We ask you keep any rubbish from food etc in your own bag and dispose of this when back in Tauranga.
There is a toilet on the boat and on the Island, at the arrival/departure point only. If needing to go during the walk, you will need to be creative, as guides will not be able to assist you with this.
Please note: This trip is very much weather dependent and if we are restricted by weather, we will send out confirmation on mobile and email on Thursday 3rd April 2025 (afternoon), based on the weather forecast and the safety is determined through the boat company we are using. The rain date of this trip is Saturday, 12th April 2025 and ask you keep this weekend free in case we must reschedule to this day. If the boating company deem it to be unsafe on the 5th April and the rain date of the 12th April 2025, there will be a full refund.
In the meantime, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Kylie from the ECHO Walking Festival Committee
kylie@katchkatikati.org.nz
(07) 549-5250
Grade: 5
Time: 8:00 am
Meet: Karaka DOC Carpark, 501 Karaka Road, Thames
Duration: 6-7 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Waiotahi - Karaka Loop
Our lovely guides from Kauaeranga Tramping Club will be guiding the walk and we really appreciate it!
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring your own morning tea, lunch and drink and that you have a good degree of fitness required. Appropriate shoes are required too. We do ask you to also bring a torch, waterproof jacket and your own backpack holding your own gear.
The walk can take 6-7 hours. There are also some stream crossings. Grade 5 and 17km walk.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 4
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Karangahake Gorge car park
Duration: 4 Hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Dubbo 96 Track Loop Walk
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 4 walk, will take around 4 hours and a good level of fitness is required.
You should be prepared for uneven surfaces and some steep/slippery sections. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks, a head torch for the tunnel through to Dickeys Flat and a rain jacket in case of light rain.
If we have heavy/torrential rain in the morning, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all prior to 8am.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1
Time: 2:45 pm - For a 3:00 pm start
Meet: Waihi Cemetery, State Highway 2
Duration: About 90 minutes
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Waihi Cemetery Walk - Waihi Cemetery More Wonderful Women of Waihi
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
Please wear suitable footwear and we also ask you to also bring a waterproof jacket/warm jacket for the tour. The walk can take approx. 1.5 hours.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 4
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Papamoa Cultural Regional Park’s new carpark, Poplar Lane, Te Puke Highway
Duration: 4.5 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Papamoa Cultural Regional Park and Summerhill Farm
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 4 walk and will take around 4-5 hours.
A good level of fitness is required. You should be prepared for uneven surfaces with some steep parts. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks/lunch and a rain jacket in case of light rain on the day. If we have heavy rain forecast, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1-2
Time: 10:00 am - Please arrive 10 minutes early.
Meet: Beach reserve on Island View Road, Whangamata by beach access 14. Disclaimer can be done at this location.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Beach to Whenuakura Island Tour
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
Our guide for the day is from Surfsup NZ.
Please wear suitable footwear and we also ask you to also bring a waterproof jacket/warm jacket for the tour. Wetsuits will be provided by Surfsup NZ.
The tour can take approx. 2-3 hours.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 2-3
Time: 10:00 am
Meet: Dickey Flat Adventure Camp, Waikino
Duration: Overnight
ECHO Walking Festival Survival Experience
(Tuesday 8th and Wednesday 9th April 2025)
Recently you applied to participate on our Survival Experience.
You will be learning about SURVIVAL. The first part of this unit is the study of basic survival theory in a variety of situations. This will take place at the Dickey Flat Adventure Camp shelter. (I will supply you with a written summary of this lesson.)
To make this information more meaningful we are intending to spend one night in a survival situation with minimum equipment.
Each of you should have equipment that you would normally take for a day tramp, supplemented with the extra comfort of a sleeping bag. With this equipment you will endeavour to construct a shelter, for yourself, to spend a night in this unfamiliar environment.
Day pack for any tramp should have:
Waterproof coat/parka, fly sheet/plastic (2x3m) or emergency bag, water bottle, snack food, and survival kit.
A Survival Kit should have:
Whistle, fire lighting gear, sharp knife, snare wire, fishing line/hooks, tin foil, first aid items (plasters/bandage/aspirin/antiseptic/salt tablets), small torch, needle/cotton, pencil/paper, water purifier, insect repellent, plastic bags, compass, survival blanket, M.S.C. sheet or bag, emergency food.
Please be at 189 Dickey Flat by 10:00am TUESDAY 8th April 2025.
Wednesday breakfast will be prepared and cooked at the Dickey Flat Adventure Camp (Breakfast of cereal/milk, bacon, toast, eggs, coffee and tea supplied).
The survival experience will conclude before 12:00 noon WEDNESDAY 9th April 2025.
If you have any queries don’t hesitate to contact me.
Max McLean
027 238 3688
ECHO Walking Festival
Grade: 5
Time: 9:00 am - 8.45 am for briefing and 9 am start walking
Meet: Wairere Falls carpark, Goodwin Road, Okauia
Duration: 7 hours approx
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Wairere to Te Tuhi
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, jacket, warm clothing, food and water. The end to end trip is expected to take around 7 hours approximately. A car will be there to take the drivers back to Wairere Falls carpark to collect their own cars and return to Te Tuhi Rd for their passengers.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records.
In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact the team at Te Aroha Visitor Information Centre on 07 884 8052.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 3
Time: 9:30 am - Meet at the carpark by the pool (to receive a green wristband) - 9:45am start
Meet: 274 Hot Springs Road, Katikati (toilet onsite)
Duration: 2 hours - The walk takes an hour.
We are so please you have registered and paid to attend this year’s Sapphire Springs Nature Trail and Soak Walk with the ECHO Walking Festival on Tuesday Wednesday 9th April 2025. We look forward to sharing this experience with you.
Below are further details to help you plan out the day.
If the gate is closed to enter, mention at the counter that you are with ECHO Walking Festival.
This is a Grade 3 walk and will need a good level of fitness.
We meet at the carpark before we set off, where a guide will allocate a green wrist band (this is so the park know you are with the ECHO Group). This adventurous walk begins at the pools carpark and sets off into the bush that features raised platforms over Kauri tree roots, steep, slippery sections and unbridged stream crossings. It's suited for those with good fitness and requires proper footwear. Afterward, enjoy your own lunch while soaking in the outdoor spa or you have the option to book a private spa (costs on top of) directly booked through the Sapphire Springs main office.
We are lucky to have two guides on hand on this day. 1 x lead and 1 x tail end. The guides are there to make sure everyone is safe throughout the day and wearing high vis jackets, so they are visible. One guide will hold a basic first aid kit. They will be leaving you after the walk and you can enjoy the soak after.
Please bring your own morning tea / lunch / snacks / medications (epi pens) and / or antihistamine tablets, hat and plenty of water. A backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible trekking boots, trekking poles (if desired), and a rain jacket in case needed.
In the meantime, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Kylie from the ECHO Walking Festival Committee
kylie@katchkatikati.org.nz
(07) 549-5250
Grade: 1
Time: 8:45 am - We leave the meeting place at 9:00 am.
Meet: Corner Harbour View Road & Port Road, Whangamata
Duration: 5.5 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Opoutere Beach Forest Walk
Our lovely guides from Whangamata Ramblers Club will be guiding the walk and we really appreciate it!
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We leave the meeting place at 9.00am. We carpool from there $5 each, traveling to the start of the walk (Opoutere Beach Public Park, 409 Opoutere Road, Opoutere).
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, a jacket, hat, food and water. The walk takes approx. 5.5 hours. A total of 8km walk.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 2
Time: 10:00 am - Gate open from 9.30am to 9.55am.
Meet: The Martha Mine Entrance, 140 Kenny Street, Waihi, across from the basketball court.
Duration: 2-2.5 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - A walk Through Martha Mine PIt
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes. The walk can take anywhere between 2 to 2.5 hours to return back to the carpark.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 3-4
Time: 9:00 am - Please arrive 15 minutes early.
Meet: Waihi Beach Surf Club carpark
Duration: 4 Hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Homunga Bay to Waihi Beach
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
Please arrive at 8:45 am to allow time for registration before you are transported by Van to the beginning of the walk.
This is a Grade 4 walk and will take around 4 hours. A good level of fitness is required.
You should be prepared for uneven surfaces with some steep parts and possible short section 3-4m of rope decent. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks/lunch and a rain jacket in case of light rain on the day. If we have heavy rain forecast, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 2
Time: 7:00 pm
Meet: End of Pikirangi Road (off 834 Wright Road), Aongatete (toilet onsite)
Duration: 2 hours
We are so pleased you have registered and paid to attend this year’s Aongatete Night Walk with the ECHO Walking Festival on Friday 11th April 2025. We look forward to sharing this experience with you.
Below are further details to help you plan out the day.
This is a Grade 2 walk and enjoyable for all ages.
You will be joined by Aongatete Outdoor Education Centre staff for a fascinating night walk in Aongatete forest. Discover the amazing life that only reveals itself after dark including glowworms, wētā and spiders. Weather permitting, the evening will end with a cozy campfire and toasted marshmallows. Participants are asked to bring a torch, covered shoes and a rain jacket.
Meet at the end of Pikirangi Road, where staff will help you park and take you on the night journey.
One of the Aongatete Staff will hold a basic first aid kit.
Please bring your own snacks / medications (epi pens) and / or antihistamine tablets, beanie, warm clothes and plenty of water. A backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible walking shoes and a rain jacket in case needed. In the meantime, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Kylie from the ECHO Walking Festival Committee
kylie@katchkatikati.org.nz
(07) 549-5250
Grade: 3-4
Time: 8:00 am
Meet: Meet at Convenient Cow Cafe &Store, Hikutaia
Duration: 5-6 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Maratoto Wires Track
Our lovely guides from Kauaeranga Tramping Club will be guiding the walk and we really appreciate it!
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring your own morning tea, lunch and drink and that you have a good degree of fitness required. Appropriate shoes are required too. We do ask you to also bring a waterproof jacket and your own backpack holding your own gear.
The walk can take 5-6 hours plus travel. Grade 3-4. 11.25km walk.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 4
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Karangahake Gorge Main Carpark, by swing bridge
Duration: 4.5 - 5 Hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Mount Karangahake Summit Walk
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, walking poles recommended, jacket and food for our lunch break at the summit.
The walk can take anywhere between 4 to 5 hours to return back to the carpark, depending on the pace of the group.
Medium to high level of fitness required to be able to keep up with the group. Track experience preferred. It is a constant climb and will test your cardio.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1
Time: 9:30 am - Be ready to head off at 10 am
Meet: Lawrence Oliver Dog Park, Te Puke
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Doggy Wander Walk at Te Ara Kahikatea Pathway in Te Puke
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 1 walk and will take around 1 to 1.5 hours.
This walk has areas of gravel underfoot, please wear appropriate shoes. Please ensure you come equipped with suitable equipment to walk your dog, i.e. collar, or harness and leash, water etc. All dogs must be on a lead for the walk. You can have plenty of off lead time at the dog park.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1
Time: 10:00 am
Grade: 1
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Meet at Dickey Flat Adventure Camp (189 Dickey Flat Rd)
Duration: 4 hours return
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Historic Walk Waitawheta to Karangahake
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, walking poles recommended, a jacket, water, food and camera.
The walk takes 4 hours.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 3
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Waihi Beach Surf Lifesaving Club carpark
Duration: 2 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Waihi Beach North End Mining History
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 3 walk and will take around 2 hours. A moderate level of fitness is required.
You should be prepared for uneven surfaces with some steep parts. Areas of the walk are near very steep drop offs so please ensure you maintain a safe distance from the edge, if you have children with you on the walk, please ensure they also maintain a safe distance from the edge. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks/lunch and a rain jacket in case of light rain on the day. If we have heavy rain forecast, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 3-4
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: The Ōtanewainuku Forest car park, 701 Mountain Road, Oropi.
Duration: 5-6 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Ōtanewainuku Trig plus Rimu and Whataroa Falls Track
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 3-4 walk and will take around 5-6 hours.
A good level of fitness is required. You should be prepared for uneven surfaces with some steep parts. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks/lunch and a rain jacket in case of light rain on the day. If we have heavy rain forecast, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 2
Time: 9:30 am
Meet: End of Pikirangi Road (off 834 Wright Road), Aongatete (toilet onsite)
Duration: 2 hours
We are so pleased you have registered and paid to attend this year’s Aongatete Fungi Walk with the ECHO Walking Festival on Monday 14th April 2025. We look forward to sharing this experience with you.
Below are further details to help you plan out the day.
This is a Grade 2 walk and enjoyable for all ages.
You will be joined by Aongatete Forest Project staff for a educational walk around the Aongatete Short Loop. Explore the fascinating world of fungi while learning about their vital role in the ecosystem. This guided stroll (2.2km) offers an opportunity to discover these charismatically quirky - but often overlooked - forest dwellers.
Meet at the end of Pikirangi Road, where staff will help you park and take you on the journey.
One of the Aongatete Staff will hold a basic first aid kit.
Please bring your own snacks / medications (epi pens) and / or antihistamine tablets, a hat and plenty of water. A backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible walking shoes and a rain jacket in case needed.
In the meantime, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Kylie from the ECHO Walking Festival Committee
kylie@katchkatikati.org.nz
(07) 549-5250
Grade: 1
Time: 6:00 pm
Meet: Te Aroha Information Centre, 102 Whitaker Street, Te Aroha
Duration: 1 hour
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Night Time in the Bush Glowworm Walk
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
Please bring a torch and walking shoes.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records.
In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact the team at Te Aroha Visitor Information Centre on 07 884 8052.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 4
Time: 8:15 am - For an 8:30 am departure
Meet: At the end of Hot Springs Road, Katikati (toilet onsite)
Duration: 5 hours
We are so pleased you have registered and paid to attend this year’s Sentinel Rock Lookout Walk with the ECHO Walking Festival on Tuesday 15th April 2025. We look forward to sharing this experience with you.
Below are further details to help you plan out the day.
This is a Grade 4 walk and can be seen as a strenuous walk.
The Sentinel Rock Lookout Walk, accessible off the Tuahu Track at the Tuahu Kauri (about 25 minutes from the carpark), is a challenging hike for those with moderate to high fitness and backcountry skills. The trail, which includes steep, rough and unformed sections which may require body to pull you up to some spots, this will lead you to the stunning valley views from the Sentinel Rock lookout.
We do not recommend this walk if you have any injuries or are prone to strains. If you are in doubt, pain or have hurt yourself prior to the day, can we please ask you let us know, so we don’t wait before we leave on the walk.
We are lucky to have three guides on hand on this day. 1 x lead, 1 x middle and 1 x tail end. The guides are there to make sure everyone is safe throughout the day and wearing high vis jackets, so they are visible. One guide will hold a basic first aid kit.
Please bring your own morning tea / lunch / snacks / medications (epi pens) and / or antihistamine tablets, hat and plenty of water. A backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible trekking boots, trekking poles (if desired), and a rain jacket in case needed.
There is a toilet at the start of the track, however if needing to go during the walk, you will need to be creative, as guides will not be able to assist you with this.
In the meantime, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Kylie from the ECHO Walking Festival Committee
kylie@katchkatikati.org.nz
(07) 549-5250
Grade: 2
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Te Aroha Information Centre, 102 Whitaker Street and carpool to the Waiorongomai Valley.
Duration: 2 -3 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Waiorongomai Low Level Loop
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, food and water. This walk will take approx. 3 hours.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records.
In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact the team at Te Aroha Visitor Information Centre on 07 884 8052.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1-2
Time: 10:30 am
Meet: TECT Arrival Centre, Whataroa Road, Ngawaro
Duration: 2 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - TECT Park Native Tree Walk
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 1-2 and will take around 2 hours.
A good level of fitness is required. You should be prepared for uneven surfaces. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks/lunch and a rain jacket in case of light rain on the day. If we have heavy rain forecast, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 2
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Te Aroha Information Centre (meet at 8.45am for a 9am start)
Duration: 4-4.5 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Tui Domain Track
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, food and water. This walk will take approx. 4 – 4.5 hours.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at cancelling and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records.
In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact the team at Te Aroha Visitor Information Centre on 07 884 8052.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 4
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Waihi Beach Water Reservoir carpark a the top of Pacific Road, Waihi Beach
Duration: 3.5 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Discovery Mine and Orokawa Loop Track
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 4 walk and will take around 3.5 hours. A good level of fitness is required.
You should be prepared for uneven surfaces with some steep parts. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks/lunch and a rain jacket in case of light rain on the day. If we have heavy rain forecast, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Dickson Holiday Park car park, 115 Victoria Street, Thames
Duration: 3-4 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Tararu Creek Battery Sites
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, walking poles recommended, a jacket, food and water.
The walk takes 3-4 hours.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 2
Time: 9:45 am - For a 10 am departure
Meet: End of Hot Springs Road, Katikati (toilet onsite)
Duration: 3 hours (1-hour walk and 2-hour talk)
We are so pleased you have registered and paid to attend this year’s Kauri Loop Track and Snack with Nutritionist Ginny McArthur Walk with the ECHO Walking Festival on Wednesday 16th April 2025. We look forward to sharing this experience with you.
Below are further details to help you plan out the day.
This is a Grade 2 walk and has a wee bit of uneven surfaces.
This magnificent walk weaves around kauri trees. The kauri is known as Tuahu, named after its location on an old Māori route that was used as a bridle path in the 1890s. After 20 minutes, a side track leads to a platform surrounding one of the largest kauri trees in the Bay of Plenty region.
After your walk, we will all convoy back into Katikati town and park up at the Arts Junction for a well-deserved mid-morning tea, complete with home-made nutritious hiking bar and a cup of cacao. You'll also have the opportunity to talk in-depth with Ginny around nutrition for tramping and preparing your body before, during and after the hike, to aid recovery and maximise your energy.
We are lucky to have two guides on hand on this day. 1 x lead and 1 x tail end. The guides are there to make sure everyone is safe throughout the day and wearing high vis jackets, so they are visible. One guide will hold a basic first aid kit.
Please bring your own snacks (if needed during the walk) / medications (epi pens) and / or antihistamine tablets, hat and plenty of water. A backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible trekking boots, trekking poles (if desired), and a rain jacket in case needed.
There is a toilet at the start of the track, however if needing to go during the walk, you will need to be creative, as guides will not be able to assist you with this.
In the meantime, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Kylie from the ECHO Walking Festival Committee
kylie@katchkatikati.org.nz
(07) 549-5250
Grade: 3
Time: 9:15 am - for 9:30 am start
Meet: 360 Thompson Track, Aongatete (toilet onsite)
Duration: 3 hours
We are so pleased you have registered and paid to attend this year’s Waitekohekohe Kids Educational Walk with the ECHO Walking Festival on Thursday 17th April 2025. We look forward to sharing this experience with you.
Below are further details to help you plan out the day.
This is more of an educational walk at Waitekohekohe Reserve to explore the impacts of myrtle rust on native trees, discover freshwater mussels and learn about diverse tree species. Delve into animal pest control and invasive weed management, gaining insight into the reserve's ecosystem and ongoing conservation efforts all while weaving down to the Waitekohekohe watering hole. Great for kids.
We are lucky to have two guides on hand on this day. 1 x lead and 1 x tail end. The guides are there to make sure everyone is safe throughout the day and wearing high vis jackets, so they are visible. One guide will hold a basic first aid kit.
Please bring your own morning tea and snacks / medications (epi pens) and / or antihistamine tablets, hat and plenty of water. A backpack to carry your own belongings and sensible walking shoes and a rain jacket in case needed.
In the meantime, if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Kylie from the ECHO Walking Festival Committee
kylie@katchkatikati.org.nz
(07) 549-5250
Grade: 4-5
Time: 8:00 am
Meet: Kauaeranga Road end carpark
Duration: 6-8 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Pinnacles Walk
Our lovely guides from Kauaeranga Tramping Club will be guiding the walk and we really appreciate it!
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring your own morning tea, lunch and drink and that you are prepared for uneven surfaces and some steep parts, so a good sense of balance is required. Appropriate shoes are required too. We do ask you to also bring a waterproof jacket and your own backpack holding your own gear.
The walk can take 6-8 hours plus travel. Grade 4-5.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 2-3
Time: 9:00 am
Meet: Waipaopao (Anzac Bay) car park, Bowentown
Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Te Kura a Maia
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
This is a Grade 2-3 walk and will take around 2 hours. A moderate level of fitness is required.
You should be prepared for uneven surfaces with some steep parts. Areas of the walk are near very steep drop offs so please ensure you maintain a safe distance from the edge, if you have children with you on the walk, please ensure they also maintain a safe distance from the edge. Please wear appropriate shoes, bring your own snacks/lunch and a rain jacket in case of light rain on the day. If we have heavy rain forecast, we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 566 090.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Vicki from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1
Time: 9:30 am
Meet: 283 East Coast Road, Pūkorokoro Miranda 2473
Duration: 2 hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year's ECHO Walking Festival – Pūkorokoro Shorebird Centre
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes.
The walk can take anywhere between 2 to 2.5 hours to return back to the carpark.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Grade: 1
Time: 9:30 am
Meet: Meet at top end of Currie St, off Mountsea Rd, Parawai, Thames
Duration: 3-4 Hours
Thank you for registering your name for this year’s ECHO Walking Festival - Halls Arboretum
Please find more details below to help you plan towards the day.
We ask you to bring suitable walking shoes, a jacket, food and water.
The walk takes 3-4 hours.
If we have a heavy rain forecast we will look at postponing and I will notify you all by email as soon as I can.
If you cannot make the walk PLEASE let us know as we need to keep accurate records. In the meantime if you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 021 223 7295.
Enjoy your walk!
Kind regards,
Jo from ECHO Walking Festival Committee
Walk / Cycle Track / Event Grading:
1 - Suitable for most walkers/cyclists.
2 - Suitable for most walkers/cyclists with some short steep or rough sections - good fitness required.
3 - Includes short steep or rough sections. Moderate fitness level required.
4 - Includes short steep and sometimes challenging or rough sections. Moderate to high fitness level required.
5 - Challenging steep sections, rough areas or river crossings. A high level of fitness required.