Sanctuary mountain, blueberries and coffee tour

Overview

For those looking for a true kiwi ‘tramping’ (hiking) experience and a wee challenge, join us for an 8km loop which has us climbing to the rocky outcrop on the pristine Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari. A world-class conservation project, the outcrop boasts views across the Waikato basin on a clear day. Enjoy being serenaded by bird song from some of our rarest native birds along the way. Explore the functioning ecosystem on the mountain, which is as close to the pre-human New Zealand environment as it’s possible to find. A packed lunch is included, but save room for the afternoon treats! Our local guides have extensive hiking and bush experience, so you will be in expert hands on the approximately 4 hour hike.

Reward your efforts with coffee and ‘a blueberry tasting trio’ at local organic blueberry farm Monavale as you gaze over the blueberry bushes and mountain backdrop. Our last stop is a boutique specialty cheese deli where you have the opportunity to sample handcrafted cheeses, in a region known for its dairy farming.

This tour is for nature lovers with a great appreciation for quality local artisan food. Please note that this hike is graded moderate - hard; please read the track grading notes below.

To check availability and make a booking, please email hello@natureandnosh.co.nz or
call +64 204 1305060

Details

$370 per person
Fully-inclusive, guided experience
Runs: Monday - Saturday
Departs: 8.30am
Returns: Approx. 4.30pm
Duration: 8 hours
Walk: Approx 4 hours
Grade: Moderate - Hard
Note: A minimum of 4 people are required for this tour to run

Inclusions

Return transfers in comfortable and spacious transport with air conditioning.

Professional local guide with local knowledge and stories leading the way
Guided hike to the rocky outcrop on Maungatautari
Hot drink at the top!
Trip to Sanctuary Mountain Visitor Centre
Packed picnic style lunch
A trio of blueberry tasting plus a coffee at Monavale Blueberry farm (or hot drink of choice)
Cheese tasting at Over the Moon Cheese Deli

What's not included

Personal hiking gear such as boots and day packs, water bottles. We do have some day packs and walking poles available for hire.

Grading

Grade
Moderate - hard
4 - 4.5 hours walking total
(400m elevation)
Carrying a small day backpack for your personal gear such as water, lunch and
a rain jacket.

Track conditions
The track surface varies from gravelled track to a true kiwi tramping track (dirt, tree roots and leaf litter). There is also a technical element to the walk with the last 30 minute ascent to the rocky outcrop a steep climb where you will need to use your upper body to climb up a few steeper parts. Walkers need to be sure-footed, have a good level of fitness and a good sense of adventure. Our guides ensure that the pace is dictated by the group and allow plenty of time for short breaks for water, refreshments, photos and interesting stories on the way.