Moria Gate Arch, walk loop track, offers a breathtaking experience for nature enthusiasts. The track leads to a magnificent limestone arch, which stands tall and proud amidst a verdant, picturesque rainforest. The serene ambiance and scenic beauty of this place is truly mesmerizing.
How to Get to Moria Gate Arch Walk?
It’s located at the Kahurangi National Park, 25 km (15.5 miles) north of Karamea. From the Kahurangi National Park entrance, it’s a long 14km (8.6 miles) and is one of the tightest, bumpiest gravel roads I’ve driven on in New Zealand.
There are several signs saying it’s not suitable for buses and campervans. It was an awful drive; thankfully, we were the only ones on the road. This road is closed Monday – Friday and open weekends and public holidays for the time being.
Moria Gate Arch Walk
You will find a parking lot at the end of the rough road.
A lot of Weka birds welcomed us. Always trying to see if they can steal food. A center provides information about the geological area, forest, and birds. Additionally, you can find tables for picnics and restrooms. During our visit, we were only able to explore the Moria Gate arch due to ongoing road construction and heavy equipment.
Into The Woods
Leaving the road and venturing into the native bush, you are immediately transported to a world of exploration. The forest has an ancient and mystical air about it, reminiscent of prehistoric times.
The thick foliage is populated with towering trees that reach towards the sky, ferns of all shapes and sizes that rustle in the breeze, and Nikau Palms that sway gently in the wind.
Every step on the forest floor is a journey through time as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this breathtaking landscape.
The walk
As you make your way onto the trail, you will soon come across a fork that will require you to decide. If you take the right fork, it will lead you to the breathtaking caves known for their impressive rock formations and stunning views.
As you stroll through the woods, you will come across a picturesque small lake that glistens in the sunlight, surrounded by lush vegetation that boasts a diverse range of greens, from the palest mint to the darkest emerald.
“Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.”
—Gary Snyder
The Enchanted Forest
The mosses that thrive in this environment cling to every available surface, from tree trunks to branches and even mushrooms, creating a beautiful, intricate tapestry that seems almost ethereal.
Moreover, as you walk, you will notice that the forest floor is covered in a soft, delicate layer of greenery that feels like a plush carpet beneath your feet.
The trees that tower above you provide a sense of peace and tranquility as if you are enveloped in a cocoon of nature, far away from the noise and chaos of the world.
Every detail of this natural wonderland seems to have been carefully crafted to create a harmonious and serene environment that soothes the soul and delights the senses.
The Arch
As you approach the river, you suddenly catch a glimpse of a massive arch that towers over the water like a guardian of the natural world. Its sheer size and majestic beauty fill you with a sense of wonder and amazement, leaving an indelible impression on your mind.
As we continued along the path, we eventually came across a sign that led us to the caves. I couldn’t help but wonder if this rocky hole in the ground was truly the Moria Gate Arch.
The descend
It looked like a dark, endless abyss, and I started to feel claustrophobic. However, my fears subsided when I saw a chain rope leading down the rocks’ side.
With caution, we made our way through the narrow entrance, squeezing past the rocks and into the darkness of the cave. Every step we took was calculated, mindful of the uneven terrain beneath our feet.
The entrance was deceivingly unremarkable, giving no indication of the breathtaking scenery that awaited us below. As we descended over the boulders, our eyes gradually adjusted to the darkness, allowing us to take in the stunning surroundings.
While descending, the cave revealed all its glory. The view that greeted us was nothing short of phenomenal, taking our breath away and leaving us speechless.
The peacefulness of the location was simply incredible. Apart from the subdued chatter of my fellow travelers, the only sounds that could be heard were the gentle flow of the water, the soft breeze, and the sweet melodies of the birds. I took a moment to fully appreciate the positive energy surrounding me.
The Return
Once you have finished exploring the enchanting caves and taking in the awe-inspiring views, we retrace your steps and head back to the fork in the trail. From there, take the other fork to complete the loop. This will lead you on a path that is just as picturesque as the one you just completed.
Is it Worth to Visit the Moria Gate Arch Walk?
Discover the Moria Gate Arch Walk trail and experience the stunning natural beauty surrounding you. This hiking trail offers a peaceful escape from the busy pace of everyday life, providing an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy its calming presence. I highly recommend this trail for anyone seeking a tranquil and unforgettable outdoor adventure.
The Oparara Basin offers several scenic walks to explore. Two popular ones are Moria Gate and Oparara Arch, which lead to stunning limestone arches. Box Canyon and Crazy Paving Caves offer an exciting opportunity to discover remarkable caves. However, you need to take a tour to visit the Honeycomb Caves in the same area as the Oparara Arches, as there is no public access. Don’t forget to bring a headlamp or flashlight for your tour.