The Kaitoke Hot Springs Track is an easy walk on Great Barrier Island (Aotea), starting from Whangaparapara Road, which the Department of Conservation describes as flat and suitable for push-chairs at the start. The track follows the edge of the Kaitoke Swamp and the old shoreline, through regenerating kānuka forest, to sulphurous hot pools dammed at a fork in Kaitoke Creek. The walk takes about 45 minutes to the hot pools. Along the way, the track climbs into mature forest with remnants of rimu, kauri and other conifers. Fernbirds and spotless crakes can be heard, and orchids and sundews flower beside the track.
The water in the pools can be hot, and the department asks visitors not to put their heads under the water. No dogs are allowed, and other pets are subject to conservation land rules. Black petrels breed on the slopes of Mt Hobson, and the department asks drivers to watch for them on the road at night. Gear should be checked, cleaned and sealed to avoid bringing pests, soil or seeds. The track is marked as popular. Our pick on Great Barrier Island for an easy walk to hot springs through old forest.