Field guide for the upper Temaikan, Heterian and lower Ohauan sequence at Kawhia Harbour

Abstract

Kawhia township is located c. 50 km from Hamilton City. The party will leave the University of Waikato at 7 a.m. and travel southwestwards through the small town of Pirongia, and then westwards over the ranges south of Pirongia Forest Park. A brief stop will be made near the summit for a panoramic view of Kawhia Harbour. On reaching the shores of the harbour the road parallels the well-known Lower Puaroan outcrops near Puti Point. Travel time to Kawhia is c. 80 minutes and the boat trip across the harbour takes c. 45 minutes. We will land at Oraka Bay on the east coast of Totara Peninsula and walk eastwards following the coastline. Walking distance around the southern shore of the harbour is c. 5 km, some of it through deep mud, and, allowing time for collecting, will take 5 -6 hours. Dry footwear to change into after the excursion, windproofs, sunscreen and a hat are recommended.