Last updated October 2026
The Rimu Walk is a short loop from Kakaho Campsite in Pureora Forest Park that follows the Kakaho Stream through dense, tall rimu forest before climbing to a viewpoint over the forest and Mount Pureora. DOC grades it as an easy to intermediate walking track and allows 1 hour for the 1.7 km loop.
The track crosses bridges along the stream, and DOC notes the forest is full of birdlife. It suits campers at Kakaho and anyone taking the scenic drive through the park on Kakaho and Link roads. Kakaho Campsite is about 34 km from Taupō as the crow flies, and DOC gives the drive as 43 km.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Rimu Walk on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOCTrack facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.
Practical Information
- Start
- Kakaho Campsite, end of Kakaho Road, off State Highway 32 (Tihoi Road)
- Distance from the city
- about 34 km from Taupō (43 km by road, according to DOC)
- Walking time
- 1 hr loop
- Track length
- 1.7 km loop
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate
- Dogs
- No Dogs
- Track type
- Walking track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Rimu Walk
The Rimu Walk takes you into the tall forest of Pureora Forest Park. From Kakaho Campsite, the loop follows the Kakaho Stream through dense rimu forest, crossing bridges and passing among tall trees where DOC says birdlife is abundant.
The track then climbs to a viewpoint looking out over the forest canopy and across to Mount Pureora. From the viewpoint it descends and comes out further along Kakaho Road, a short walk from the campsite.
As a one hour loop, the walk suits campers staying at Kakaho and anyone wanting to stretch their legs on a drive through the park. DOC describes it as ideal for both.
Getting There
The track starts at Kakaho Campsite at the end of Kakaho Road, off State Highway 32 (Tihoi Road). From Taupō, DOC says it is 43 km: follow Poihipi Road, then Marotiri Road, to State Highway 32. From Pureora Village it is 26 km via Barryville Road and Link Road to the campsite.
The route makes a natural stop on the scenic drive through Pureora Forest Park via Kakaho and Link roads. Check the DOC page for alerts before you go.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Rimu Walk: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Pureora Forest Park: campsites, tracks and alerts across the park.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Rimu Walk take?
DOC allows 1 hour for the 1.7 km loop.
How hard is the Rimu Walk?
DOC grades it as an easy to intermediate walking track. The track follows a stream with bridges, then climbs to a viewpoint.
Where does the Rimu Walk start?
At Kakaho Campsite at the end of Kakaho Road, off State Highway 32 (Tihoi Road).
How far is it from Taupō?
DOC gives the drive as 43 km from Taupō via Poihipi Road and Marotiri Road to State Highway 32.
What can I see from the viewpoint?
The forest canopy and Mount Pureora.
Are dogs allowed?
No. DOC’s rule for this track is No Dogs.
Is the track open?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had no current alerts for this track. Check the DOC page for current alerts before you go.
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