Mt Whareorino sits at 649 metres above sea level and represents some of the oldest exposed rocks of its type in the Waikato. The summit is dominated by Dracophyllum traversii, Quintinia and kamahi with the surrounding slopes being a mix of coastal broadleaf species such as kohekohe and puriri. Gully tree fern Cyathea cunninghamii appears to be the dominant species of tree fern in the area. We will be accessing the mountain through Nukuhakari Station to maximise our time, seeing as it is such a long way to get out there. For those that wish we will be staying at the campground by the Waikawau tunnel and exploring Ngarupupu point and other locations on the Sunday and Monday (Auckland Anniversary weekend). Ngarupupu point is home to the threatened forget-me-not Myosotis pansa var. praeceps (the image is Myosotis, from Thomas Emmitt).

Contact the organiser to register and to arrange camping and carpooling details.

Bring: Lots of water, tent, good footwear, dinner & breakfast & a fishing rod if you want to have a go surfcasting off the beach.

Meet: Outside the Waikawau school on Waikawau Rd at 10am on Saturday Grade: Easy