The Kaharoa Conservation Area is a rugged piece of Crown land about half way between Rotorua and Te Puke. Covered in native forest, the area is bounded by steep gorges. In pre-European times the area was occupied by Ngati Rangiwewehi and Tapuika with many pa and other important cultural sites remaining in the area.
The Conservation area is home to a remnant population of kokako, which is protected through the work of the Kaharoa Kokako Trust.
From 1989-1997 the block was part of a major research project by the Department of Conservation and Landcare Research. This study showed that predation by possums and ship rats was the main cause of kokako decline. This breakthrough research provided valuable information that has enabled groups like the Kaharoa Kokako Trust to protect the birds.
The Kaharoa Kokako Track does require a certain level of agility. Tree roots are exposed in places and there are steep areas. However, those of us who are able to traverse these areas are able to admire this conservation area in it's natural beauty.
All caches hidden by DOPBOP do not require you to stray any significant distance from the track. For your own safety - and to protect the environment - please do not wonder into the bush looking for caches.
This cache is close to ground level and close to our DOC track counter ( you may find it whilst searching for the cache!) . Cache is a solid , sqaure container.
When you find this cache, please help us outby letting us know how effective DOCBOPs caches are at supporting recreation on Public Conservation Land. Would you have visited this area if it were not for this DOCBOP placed cache?