Rail tunnel
On the walkway.
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Karangahake Gorge lies between the Coromandel and Kaimai ranges at the southern end of the Coromandel Peninsula on New Zealand's North Island, about 9 km in a straight line west of the town of Waihi. It is a sharply winding canyon carved by the Ohinemuri River, and State Highway 2 runs through it between Paeroa, Waikino and Waihi. The East Coast Main Trunk Railway once ran through the gorge until it was bypassed by the Kaimai Deviation, and the gorge section is now a walkway and cycleway, part of the Hauraki Rail Trail. The area has a strong link with gold mining, companies still prospect here today, and remains of old mining works are scattered through the gorge. The clear green river runs between huge boulders and walls of dense native forest and tree ferns. Swing bridges cross the river, the walkway passes through a long former railway tunnel, and stone ruins of ore-crushing batteries such as the Woodstock stand among the trees, overgrown with plants. Walking is free, and several tracks start at the Karangahake Reserve car park, ranging from 30 minutes to over two hours. Bring a torch for the unlit side tunnels, and keep to the tracks, as some old mine workings are dangerous.
On the walkway.
Stone batteries.
Over the river.
Between Paeroa and Waihi, North Island, New Zealand
For the unlit side tunnels.
Yes.