Exploring Link Road in Pureora Forest Park
Link Road is a scenic route that connects the northwestern and northeastern sides of Pureora Forest Park in the Waikato. Starting from Barryville Road, east of the Timber Trail and Tōtara Walk trailheads, this 22 km road offers a unique journey through diverse landscapes. The road also traverses areas of forest regrowth and exotic pine plantations, with some sections lying outside the park.
The road, though an old forestry route, is navigable in a 2WD car despite its rough patches and numerous potholes.
Access to Mount Pureora and Titiraupenga
Link Road is a gateway to the park's two prominent peaks: Mount Pureora and Titiraupenga. The tracks to these high points begin on opposite sides of the road, approximately 14 km from the intersection with Barryville Road. The trek to Mount Pureora, standing at 1,165 metres, takes about 2 hours. The journey to Titiraupenga, which reaches 1,042 metres, requires around 4 hours.
Visitors should note that the summit of Titiraupenga is sacred to Māori and should not be climbed.
Rimu Track and Scenic Views
At the end of Link Road, near the picturesque Kakaho Campsite, lies the short but stunning Rimu Track, with many ancient rimu trees. This foresst walk is beautiful and complemented by interesting rock formations on the farmland across the road.
How to get to Link Road
To reach Link Road from the north side of the forest, take State Highway 30 from either Te Kuiti to the west or Whakamaru to the east. Either Maraeroa Road to Village Road or Barryville Road will get you to the park entrance and Link Road. The road stretches for about 22 km, transitioning into Kakaho Road for the final 7 km leading to State Highway 32.
Other activities on the north side of the forest talk to the history of the forest, including the Forest Tower historic conservation site, while the Historic Crawler Tractor Walk is located about 2.5 km along Link Road
