The cache is at the published location close to the summit of Hakarimata (alt 374 m) but it is listed as a “mystery cache” because it is a "Challenge Cache" and there are additional logging requirements.
To claim a smiley (log it as found) you must Sign the logbook for this cache AND have also visited (signed the logbook) or be the owner of the following Waikato mountain caches, all within a 50 km radius of Hamilton city:
If you have already logged some of these caches then great – they count!
Note that the terrain and difficulty listed on this page only relate to the actual cache on Hakarimata. Refer to individual cache listings for details on the other caches
If you choose to climb Hakarimata before completing the full challenge please feel free to log your visit on GC.com as a note then when you have completed all the tasks in the future it can be changed to a find log. You are also encouraged to post note logs and photos on the cache page highlighting your progress and achievements while working toward the goal of completing the challenge.
Given that I do not own the caches listed above it is likely that at some point in the future one or more of the above caches will be archived or become unsuitable for whatever reason. In these situations a task may be removed from the challenge but it may also be replaced with another task. We will have to play it by ear when the situation arises. If you have any concerns don't hesitate to contact me - I won't bite.
And before anyone asks – no you cannot claim da-snoops “old” Pirongia summit cache for this challenge!
To make it all worthwhile there are massive prizes up for grabs for any teams who complete the challenge. Did I say "massive" prizes? I meant to say one chocolate peanut slab will be posted to every team that sucessfully completes the challenge to help recharge some energy!
WARNING: To complete this challenge you will be venturing into the NZ bush and you need to be well prepared and tell someone of plans before setting out. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher altitudes. Always carry a change of clothing, wet weather gear and sufficient food to cater for any emergency. All caches can be accessed from marked tracks maintained by the Department of Conservation (DOC) but some are steep tramping tracks and can be muddy. Refer to individual cache pages for site specific warnings.
That's all folks. Have fun out there and take care!