From Whananaki North village, there’s a track next to the school which leads to the footbridge. Once across, head east along the estuary around the small settlement and over the spit before heading south on Pukekawa Rd parallel to the shore. (If the tide is high, there is a 1km detour by road around the back of the settlement).

Beyond Pitokuku Point, a grassy track goes behind private baches and over a stile to join up with a well-graded pohutukawa-lined farm track/driveway with excellent views of the coast and the Poor Knight Islands.

There is a possible diversion via a short, steeper track to the Capitaine Bougainville Memorial on the north point of Oruaea Bay. Great views from here along the coast.

Continue on the driveway until reaching the gate at McAuslin Rd.

Please note that there is limited beach access from the track – i.e. after the Spit, only at Sheltered Bay.