![\"Wangapeka](\"https:\/\/www.leetraynor.com\/blog.multi\/kiwi6\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2018\/12\/Wangapeka-Track_dts.png\")
<\/a>The only thing that was worrying about the track was the fact that it had been reclassified as a \u201croute\u201d from previously being a track. This means that upkeep of the track is downgraded, and any further slips, etc. which might impede progress will no longer be bypassed (as was the case near the Karamea end, where recent windfall has almost obliterated the track, but temporary signs have been erected to allow passage, and shortly before Wangapeka Saddle, where a detour around a major slip was well signed). This has meant that a telephone once present at the Karamea end of the track has been removed, although the telephone at Price\u2019s Clearing was still there. These telephones provide (or provided) a secure means of arranging transport off the track at both ends. For alternative accommodation right at the Karamea end of the track, Atawhai Farmstay is a possibility (and they have a phone there as well). The track itself sticks for the most part to travelling along three rivers: The Little Wanganui, the Taipo and Karamea, and the Wangepeka. The one major alternative route would be to go via Saxon Falls and Trevor Carter Hut down the Karamea River, and then up over the Biggs Tops route which climbs up over 1500 m before heading back down to Wangapeka Saddle. Another completely alternative route would be to take the Leslie-Karamea route, which ends at Cobb\u2019s Reservoir near Upper Takaka. Transport from here is problematical, however.<\/p>\n Other alternatives would be to redistribute the daily hiking load. For the very late start here, reaching Taipo Hut was just possible; staying at Belltown would have relieved the stress considerably. A second day to Trevor Carter would have been quite easy, as would a third day to Stone Hut by either river or mountain routes. The final part of the track is so easy, however, that it is probably not worth trying to stay at either of the King\u2019s Huts.<\/p>\n The condition of the track itself was generally quite good, despite the degradation. The climb up to Little Wanganui Saddle was pretty tough, and the descent on the other side was very steep. Along the upper Karamea River there are high-water and low-water alternatives, and the low water variety involves a bit of wading up the river. From Stone Hut onwards the track improves bit by bit; from King\u2019s Creek Hut until the end the condition is among the best that can be expected from a back country route. However, expect low-lying parts to deteriorate when the weather is bad.<\/p>\n Most of the huts are rather simple affairs, but most have water, firewood and a toilet. King\u2019s Creek Hut (not to be confused with Cecil King\u2019s historical hut a few kilometres down the track) is the most modern of the lot.<\/p>\n
\n<\/p>\n<\/a>Slide Show<\/h5>\n