Palmers Track via Windy Canyon
Alert/Important notice
During wet periods the steep track approaching the summit can be wet, muddy and slippery.
Walking track
Getting there
These tracks begin from the summit of Whangapoua Hill/Aotea Rd.
About the area
Great Barrier Island is the largest island off New Zealand's North Island and lies 100 kilometres north-east of Auckland. More than 60 per cent of the island is managed by DOC.
Description
Windy Canyon Lookout
Time: 15 min return
Windy Canyon Lookout starts at Palmers Track entrance on the summit (330 m) of Whangapoua Hill/Aotea Rd. It then climbs 100 m through the andesitic rock bluffs of Windy Canyon to central ridge.
Take in the spectacular views of the Okiwi Basin and Kaitoke.
View from Mount Hobson
Palmers Track
Time: 3 hr one way
Climbing through Windy Canyon to the central ridge, Palmers Track provides great views of Okiwi and Awana. It follows the ridge and climbs steeply to the summit of Hirakimata (Mt Hobson).
Plan and prepare
Please keep to the track to to avoid damaging rare native plants. Beware steep drops offs.
What to expect on a walking track:
- Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
- Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
- Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required