Castle Rock (Waikato)

Story

Castle Rock is a 525m mountain south-east of Coromandel, Waikato, New Zealand. It is used for rock climbing, with a number of high bolted routes.GeographyCastle Rock is a prominent peak in the Coromandel Range that lies south-east of Coromandel town, north of a peak also called Motutere and south of an unnamed peak in the headwaters of the westward-flowing Pukewhau Stream.The mountain is a volcanic plug made from remnants of solidified magma, the softer surrounding rock having been eroded away.Maori explorationMotutere means "floating island" a name bestowed by Ruamano, a descendent of Tama-te-kapua. Māori explorers of the area tended to travel along the hill ridges, so avoiding the thick vegetation in the sheltered valleys. Once dusk came they would seek shelter in order to avoid the patupaiarehe whom they believed inhabited these hills. The summit of Motutere would be eschewed after dark for this reason.Climbing, there are 17 different ascents for rock climbers to attempt at the summit of Castle Rock. Routes include Kookmeyer, Budda Wall and the Quiet Earth Wall, with bolted climbs of up to on solid rock. Access is via a forestry track that leaves the 309 Road near the Waiau Waterworks visitor centre and involves a 25 - 40 minute walk in. The track is also suitable for cycling and at the top ridge there are fine views of Great Mercury Island, Cuvier Island, Great Barrier Island and the Firth of Thames.