Kaharoa Conservation Area and the adjoining Onaia Ecological Area are renowned for their Kokako. Unique to New Zealand, Kokako were once common in lowland forest, but are today listed as an endangered species with less than 1400 surviving in the North Island. A pest control program in this area is having positive results to the local Kokako population (from 26 adult birds in 1997 to 83 in 2002).
Please note that dogs, horses, bicycles, fires, and the removal of plants or animals are not permitted within this area.
From State Highway 36 (Tauranga to Rotorua direct Road), turn onto Kaharoa Road, and then left onto Kapukapu Road. There is a large parking area with information boards at S 37° 57.224 E 176° 17.356. From here it is a 5-10 minute walk along the road to the track entrance. Alternatively, there is limited parking at the track entrance itself, at S 37° 57.024 E 176° 17.658.
The track is well-marked, 1.2 km long, and leads its way down through the forest to the Onaia Stream. GPS reception is marginal at times due to the forest canopy, but improves as you approach the cache. Be careful on the slippery rocks along the creek. Return is via the same track.
The cache is a 1-litre snap-lock style container with a green lid, and contains a notebook and the usual trading items.
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