How to get there: As you approach the summit of Takaka Hill, you'll see a signpost for Harwoods Hole down the dirt Canaan Road. There is a parking lot at the end of the street, at the entrance to the hiking trail.
Note: There are no barriers at Harwoods Hole lookout and it is dangerous to approach the edge. Please keep an eye on children at all times.
The Harwoods Hole Track is located at the summit of Takaka Hill in the Canaan Downs Scenic Reserve. After 45 minutes of following ancient silver beech forest and traversing limestone cliffs, you reach a viewpoint surrounding the 357m deep sinkhole. Although you can't see down the shaft, you'll get spectacular views of the Takaka Valley.
The Harwoods Hole Track is located at the summit of Takaka Hill in the Canaan Downs Scenic Reserve. After 45 minutes of following ancient silver beech forest and traversing limestone cliffs, you reach a viewpoint surrounding the 357m deep sinkhole. Although you can't see down the shaft, you'll get spectacular views of the Takaka Valley.
Harwoods Hole formed over thousands of years and is the result of the gradual erosion of its limestone and marble buildup. Weathered and eroded by a stream that flowed into the fissure, the sinkhole fed Gorge Creek via the cave system. Over time, another underground entrance formed and the stream retreated closer to its headwaters, eventually causing the cave to dry out.