Lindemann Loop worth the walk

I love the New Zealand bush.

There is something therapeutic about spending any amount of time in it.

The summer months were providing me with stunning walking weather and late afternoon was proving to be a great time to tackle local bush tracks.

For me, I feel this great sense of peace when I spend time in the bush so this time, I thought I'd take a step off the beaten track and check out the Lindemann Loop, between Waihi and Katikati.

This is quite a long walk, and by far the most trail-like.

I convinced my partner to join me (reluctant as he was) and we set off with a small pack of snacks and drinks.

The first half of the track is reasonably easy to follow and winds its way along the side of a ridgeline, making the ascent quite a pleasant one.

Though it can be walked in either direction, I would recommend taking the right hand route.

The left hand one reads 'Caution steep' and it is exactly that!

If you are super fit and wanting a sure workout, then this is possibly a good option, otherwise stick to the more scenic route.

In total, it is 11km and took me three hours, but the DoC website suggests allowing five.

The track winds its way through the remains of kauri dams and logging operations including timber dams.

There are stunning waterfalls and while we did this track during the dry summer months, it would be lovely in autumn as there would be more water in the streams. But take care as the track can be slippery in damp areas.

After approximately an hour, we reached the Wairoa Pack Track junction.

I opted not to take the few minute detour down the the right hand track to a significant kauri grove and instead carried on the left, stopping in a small clearing along the side of ridge line for a break.

The second half of the track is perfect for those who love to be in the bush and are not afraid to go off the beaten track.

The track was not well worn so care had to be taken to make sure we stayed on the correct path.

There are areas where the bush thins and you get stunning views and a varied track.

Track type: Challenging bush walk with uphill areas and quite significant downhill.

Good footwear recommended and check the weather before leaving.

Take warm clothing, a good raincoat, water, and first aid kit for longer walks.

Getting there: This track is at the end Lindemann Rd off SH2, just north of Katikati.

Time: Allow five hours, but at a good pace with a good level of fitness it is easy to do in three.