October 9, 2022

Bush Walks, Waterfalls and Stunning Vistas in Whangārei

We’ve put together information to help boat crews from around the world make the most of their time here in Whangārei. Find the full list of resources here.

There’s no better way to spend the day than exploring the natural beauty of Northland. These walks take you through native bush, past historical Māori pā sites and waterfalls, and onto secluded beaches with picture-perfect views you won’t want to miss. 

1 | Parihaka

Parihaka Scenic Reserve is the largest pā site in the country. At the summit, there is a viewing platform with expansive views over the city and harbour and a memorial to those who lost their lives in World War II. There are three walking tracks that link up through the reserve, all steep climbs but well worth the effort!

2 | Mount Manaia

Sacred to the Māori, Mount Manaia was created during volcanic action. The views from the summit are spectacular and well worth the many steps you’ll have to climb to get up there. Expect to spend about two hours both ways – you may even want to pack a small picnic to sit back and enjoy the magnificent views from the top.

3 | Mount Aubrey

If you still have some energy after your Mount Manaia climb, another ancient volcano with panoramic views is just down the road. The northern end of the Mount Aubrey track starts at Tiller Park (just off Reotahi Road), and the southern end is accessed near Little Munro Bay accessed by Bay View Road. Another stunning climb, with views for miles on a clear day.

4 | Pukenui Forest

The Pukenui Forest Loop track is a beautiful escape into the natural environment and will take just over three hours. For more experienced trampers, you have the option to branch off to the Main Ridge Track or the Taraire Ridge Loop Track for a longer, more challenging walk with steep climbs.

From the Main Ridge Track, you can access Barge Park, the Quarry Gardens and the Coronation Scenic Reserve which is home to North Island brown kiwi and nikau groves, includes Māori pā sites and views out over Whangārei Harbour.

5 | Otuihau Whangārei Falls

Extend your walk from A H Reid Memorial Park, over the swinging bridge, and along to this 26-metre high cascading waterfall. For a shorter walk, park at the carpark on Boundary Road and complete the 30 minute loop walk. You can also reach the Otuihau Whangārei Falls from the Hātea River Walkway.

6 | Bream Head

Considered as wahi tapu (a sacred place) by Māori, and a North Island brown kiwi sanctuary, this area is tended by the local community, local iwi and the Bream Head Conservation Trust. The 700-year-old Te Whara Track stretches between Ocean Beach and Urquharts Bay, and a shorter loop from Urquharts Bay to Smuggler’s Cove will take you past a World War II gun emplacement.

7 | A H Reid Memorial Park

A H Reid Memorial Park has several loop walks to explore, through stunning native bush, along riverbeds and through treetops. We recommend starting at the Whareora Road carpark and joining onto the Alexander Walk. From here you’ll merge onto the Canopy Walk and walk among the treetops on a raised wooden canopy among beautiful large kauri trees. Continue onto the McKinnon Track which leads to the Paranui Falls and stunning lookouts, before looping back to the carpark via Elizabeth Path.

8 | Hātea River Walkway

The walkway starts along the Whangārei Aquatic Centre carpark on Riverside Drive. Follow it along Hātea River to a boardwalk through mangroves, then through native bush to A H Reid Memorial Park where you’ll follow signs for the Elizabeth Track and Hātea Walkway. Continue along the river past farmlands and over a swinging bridge to Otuihau Whangārei Falls. This walk takes two hours each way, so we recommend packing plenty of water and a picnic to enjoy at the base of the waterfall.

9 | Matapouri / Whale Bay Loop

Start at the north end of Matapouri Beach and take the Matapouri Headland Track. At the halfway point, break right and take the 20 minute bush track down to the white sands at Whale Bay for a refreshing swim. You can complete the loop back to Matapouri via the Morrison Reserve Track or Ridge Track.

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