Auckland trail notes

Intro

Te Araroa section: Te Araroa's Auckland region begins at Mangawhai Heads, a popular holiday and surf destination accessible by road. From there, it is a long, scenic, beach walk to another holiday settlement of Pākiri 

Description

From Mangawhai Heads carpark, follow the road to the walkway by 44 Wintle Street, which leads down to the estuary. Follow the estuary past a camping ground, a boat ramp and holiday baches until wooden steps lead up to the Findlay Street walkway. From Findlay Street, head left into Molesworth Drive. Immediately after crossing the estuary, the trail leaves Molesworth Drive to follow the Back Bay Boardwalk for 1km, bypassing a busy road to enjoy the coastal wetlands on a path built by local volunteers. [Update July 2023:  The boardwalk was severely damaged by flooding in early 2023.  It may be closed]. The route returns to Molesworth Drive to continue until reaching Mangawhai Village. Then a right into Moir Street, left into Insley Street and across the estuary, then left into Black Swamp Road. Follow this road until reaching Pacific Road, which leads you through a forestry block to the beach and the next stage of Te Araroa.

Once on the beach, just 1km south a stream cuts across the beach and it can go over thigh height, as can other water crossings on this track. Follow the coast southwards for another 2km, then take the track over Te Ārai Point. Track markings near Te Arai Point may be difficult to follow.  Take extra care.

Once back on the beach, continue south for 12km (fording Poutawa Stream on the way).  As you walk this beach, south of Poutawa Stream it is essential to stay below the mean high tide line to respect private property rights in this area which extend to the mean high-water mark.  As you approach the Pākiri River, continue down the ocean side of the beach and cross the river at its mouth.  This should be done within 90 minutes either side of low tide to ensure it's safe and possible.  Check the tide chart here.  NOTE: Do not turn inland before crossing the river.  The spit is fenced off for the protection of Tara-iti nesting sites.  After crossing, turn inland and loop back toward the holiday park.  Cross the small tidal steam and follow the short track along the holiday park fence line that will lead you up to Pākiri River Road.

Environment

This section of coastline is home to two of only four nesting side for Tara-iti (NZ Fairy Tern). With just 40 adults in the wild and 9 breeding pairs, they are likely New Zealand's most endangered indigenous breeding bird.  Nesting in a small scrape in the sand, these delicate sea birds are very vulnerable. Nest sites are roped off and signs erected to alert people to the area.  If you see these sites, please keep clear and give them space.

Department of Conservation staff and volunteers are on site during the breeding season raising awareness with people who use the beach.

To learn more about the efforts of DOC and their partners to protect Tara-iti, check out the links below:

The NZ Fairy Tern Charitable Trust

DOC - Tara-iti

Conditions

Access

Transport

Unfortunately, long haul bus services pass by 19kms away at Kaiwaka so getting to Mangawhai would necessitate a pre-arranged pick up by a willing accommodation provider - see local transport below.

Local transport 

Leabourn Shuttles P: 09 423 7416 - E: info@leabourn.co.nz 

 

Accomodation

Mangawhai Heads

• Mangawhai Heads Motel or Camping Ground - 2 Mangawhai Heads Rd, Mangawhai Heads - P: 09 431 4675 
• Fairways B&B - 240 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai Heads - P: 09-431 4042 or 021 619 311 - E: cleaver@fairways.co.nz 
• Mangawhai Lodge - 4 Heather St, Mangawhai Heads - P: 09 431 5311 - info@seaviewlodge.co.nz   

Mangawhai Village

• Tudor Oaks Motel - 47 Moir St, Mangawhai - P: 09 431 5393 or 027 493 1901 - E: dianne@tudoroaks.co.nz 
• Riverside Holiday Park - 41 Black Swamp Rd - P: 09 431 4825 - E: office.riverside@xtra.co.nz - tent sites, caravans, units, kitchen, laundry, wifi and TV/games room.
• Mangawhai Camping - We have a basic cottage and tenting with water, electricity and toilet in our small orchard at the Mangawhai village close to Shops and food. Koha of $10pp appreciated. Call first please on Oh too one, 796 496. Your hosts - Mark and Kerry     
• Mangawhai Travellers Rest — 4 Insley St, Mangawhai Village (opp SuperValue) — P: 09 4315389, 021 02377242 (Alan/Lisa) — E: mangawhaitravellersrest@gmail.com — $20 per person inside, $15 per person camping, and a private room for two for $50 — Includes free wifi, recharging, shower and toilet.

Te Arai Point

Car parking, toilets and picnic areas.

No tenting allowed. There is a small SCC campground (up to 10 SCC campervans) for SCC campervans only, pre-booking through the Auckland Council is required. 

Pākiri

• Pākiri Beach Holiday Park - 261 Pakiri River Rd, Pākiri P: 09 422 6199  E: info@pakiriholidaypark.co.nz.  Reception & Shop hours 9 am – 5:00 pm. Limited numbers of camp sites available for TA walkers at a reduced rate of $20.00 per person per night with a maximum of 6 people. Tents must be within the site markers. Shared cabins subject to availability $30 per night per person.  Summer booking are very high, so we highly recommend booking in advance. The Christmas and New Year period is heavily booked and we may not be able to accommodate everyone.  We have a communal kitchen with fridges and microwaves, and bathrooms, and laundry facilities available). Showers are 50c for 4 minutes and laundry is $2 per load
• Pākiri Paradise on the Ridge - 505 Rodney Road, Pakiri, phone 021 066 2108, rosiewilk@xtra.co.nz - airbnb - Guest Room. Accepting campers and charging $10.00 pp for site and water.  This is south of Pakiri, up the hill near km 476, 200m off trail.

Food and Supply

Mangawhai Heads

• 4 Four Square - 3 Wood Street, Mangawhai Heads - P: 09 431 4656
• Mangawhai Deli - Shop 2, 7 Wood Street, Mangawhai Heads - P: 09 431 5887

Mangawhai Village

• Supervalue - Moir Street, Mangawhai Village - P: 09 431 4585 Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:00am – 7:00pm
• New World supermarket -  83 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai. Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:00am – 9:00pm

Intro

Te Araroa trail section: The trail leaves the northern beaches and coast to head inland to Mt Tamahunga and Matakana.

Description

Conditions

Access

Transport

Matakana

Long-haul bus services to stop 9km away at Warkworth, the nearest town on SH1.

• InterCity - P: 09 583 5780 - E: info@intercity.co.nz
• Northliner Express Coach Service - Paihia - Auckland - Wellington - P: 09 438 3206
• Naked Bus - P: 0900 62533 (calls cost)

Local transport/transport to the trailhead

• Matakabs - P: 09 422 2244 or 0800 522 743 - E: bookings@matakabs.co.nz 
• Warkworth taxis - 54 Burtram St, Warkworth - P: 09 425 0000 

Accomodation

• Pākiri Paradise on the Ridge - 505 Rodney Road, Pakiri, phone 021 066 2108, rosiewilk@xtra.co.nz - airbnb - Guest Room. Also accepting campers and charging $10.00 pp for site and water.  This is south of Pakiri, up the hill near km 476, 200m off trail
• Matakana Village Cottages (SC, B&B) - 202 Matakana Valley Rd - P: 09 422 9337 or 021 189 4242 - E: cottage@xnet.co.nz
  
• Glamping Opportunity - Great house with an amazing view located at 732 Matakana Valley Rd - so just down from the end of the trail. The owners are happy to offer a 10% discount to those who are doing Te Araroa walk, just mention this when you book.

Food and Supply

• Matakana Four Square - 21 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana - P: 09 422 7213 
• Matakana Store and Post Centre - 21 Matakana Valley Rd, Matakana - P: 09 422 7213

Intro

Te Araroa section: Puhoi is situated on the beautiful Puhoi River and is one of New Zealand’s historic villages. It was originally settled in 1863 by immigrants from Bohemia, an area which is now the Czech Republic—situated 40km north of Auckland and the gateway to Matakana Coast and Country.

Description

Conditions

Potential hazards

• Vehicles on road or track
• Poisons & traps
• Farming operations
• Forestry operations
• River crossings - Never cross flooded rivers
• Small stream crossings
• Track exposed to sun, wind or cold
• Few water sources between Dome and Puhoi 

No dogs allowed

For tramping tracks, it’s recommended you carry appropriate safety gear including a map, compass, whistle, warm clothing, raincoat, basic medical kit, strong footwear, food and water. Cellphones can work on the ridgelines.

Access

Transport

Getting there/away

Long haul bus services stop 9km away at Warkworth, the nearest town on SH1.

• InterCity - P: 09 583 5780 - E: info@intercity.co.nz 
• Northliner Express Coach Service - Paihia - Auckland - Wellington - P: 09 438 3206 
• Naked Bus - P: 0900 62533 (calls cost)

Local transport/transport to the trailhead

• Warkworth Taxis - 54 Burtram St, Warkworth - P: 09 425 0000 
• Matakabs - P: 09 422 2244 or 0800 522 743

Accomodation

Govan Wilson 

• Twin Rimus (Matt and Jas) - Cottage for rent at 107 Govan Wilson Rd. Book in advance through airbnb  https://abnb.me/EwAdz3J67lb

Dome to Moir Hill

• Roma and Graham at Totara Bend are located on Woodcocks Rd between Edgerley and Mathews Rd directly on the trail at km 507.5. Campsites and shower available please ring or text before to make sure they have room – mobile 021 759 991. They also have a glamping cabin and self-contained unit if you fancy a bit of a treat at reasonable prices. Water available to refill your water bottles. 
• 396 Moir Hill Rd - 1 km off trail.  Te Araroa thru-hiking alumni Stu has a woolshed with some bunk beds and plenty of camping space to host walkers.  Koha for camping and shed, or do some weeding to save some money.  Shower for $5 may be available depending on tank water supply.  He might be able to give rides to Warkworth for supplies or drop off in Puhoi, but not guaranteed.  Check in with Stu - 027 447 7159.

Warkworth

• Walton Park Motor Lodge - 2 Walton Ave, Warkworth - P: 09 425 8149 - E: info@waltonpark.co.nz 
• Ribbonwood B&B - 7 Thompson Rd, Warkworth - P: 09 422 2685 - E: berris@ribbonwoodwarkworth.co.nz 
• Trail Angel, Warkworth - Carolyn and John Caukwell Phone or WhatsApp 021 274 1724. Share our home/pitch your tent, and recharge. Hot tub, dogs and cat available to walkers. May be able to collect from Dome. Max 4 walkers per night
• Free accommodation offered on Sandspit Road, near Warkworth. Double tents available, or put up your own. Fresh running creeks deep enough to swim in. 5 min walk to town centre
  Friendly kiwi family (grandparents, solo dad, 15yr boy) house is away from tent area so privacy guaranteed unless you want to share a drink or two with BBQ.
  Sight seeing available, P: Bob 021 026 80267 
• Todd & Kip. Trail Angels. Plenty of room to pitch tents but anyone is welcome to a spare bed and a hot shower when available. Happy to pick up from the dome. LGBTQ friendly. Txt or call Todd on 021 654 043

Detour option for accommodation - 2 km south 

Warkworth Sheepworld Caravan Park - Cabins and camping - SH 1, Dome Valley, Warkworth - P: 09 425 9962 

Food and Supply

New World Supermarket - 6 Percy St, Warkworth - P: 09 425 1040 

Intro

Te Araroa trail section: Enjoy a mix of forest types with good bird life and views of Puhoi Valley.

Description

Conditions

Potential hazards

• Vehicles on road or track
• Poisons and traps
• Forestry operations
• Few water sources

Access

Accomodation

• Puhoi Accommodation -  self contained backpacker style accommodation for up to 6, plus caravan and tent space, - 10 minutes walk from the end of the track - P: Pip 09 422 0009 or 021 722 266 - E: pipbeagley@gmail.com
• Puhoi Hotel Pub and Bistro - Corner Saleyards and Puhoi Rd, Puhoi (limited accommodation) - P: 09 422 0812 - E: thepuhoipublimited@gmail.com 
• Pear Tree Farm, Homestay accommodation, two double rooms available, bathroom, kitchenette, laundry and other facilities,  Wi-Fi, TV etc. Pick up can be arranged from the end of the track.  Ph Carrie 0220815793 or E iwalk@xtra.co.nz 

There is no official camping in Puhoi, but a polite enquiry at the Puhoi Hotel may prove worthwhile.  Puhoi is a Te Araroa friendly town

Food and Supply

• Puhoi Hotel Pub and Bistro - Corner of Saleyards and Puhoi Rd, Puhoi - P: 09 422 0812 - E: thepuhoipublimited@gmail.com 
• Puhoi General Store (Coffee, food, supplies and post shop) - 109 Puhoi Rd, Puhoi (open daily 7am to 7pm) - P: 09 422 0818 
• Puhoi Cottage and Tea Rooms - 50 Ahuroa Rd, Puhoi (open Friday to Sunday 10am to 4pm) - P: 09 422 0480 

Puhoi River Canoes - Puhoi Village (opposite Historic Church) - Open 1st Sept - 30 June - P: 09 422 0891 or 027 284 1672 - E: puhoicanoes@clear.net.nz 

Intro

At the present time, the walking route to Wenderholm Regional Park is incomplete so, on an outgoing tide, you can hire a kayak for the downstream journey to Wenderholm. 

Conditions

Tide information for Puhoi to Wenderholm by kayak

Potential hazards

• Poisons & traps at Wenderholm Regional Park
• Tides, waves & rivers - safer at low tide - better to paddle (SOBO) on outgoing tide, or (NOBO) incoming tide
• Water - wear a lifejacket.

No dogs allowed

Access

Transport

Accomodation

There is camping available at the Schischka Campsite, turn left and walk 1km just after the Wenderholm main gates. 
Please do not freedom camp anywhere else within Wenderholm Regional Park.

Intro

Should tides not suit, or you don't wish to pay for kayaking from Puhoi to Wenderholm - it can be walked. When walking along SH1, please take caution as this road is very busy, and there are areas where the road shoulder is very narrow. SH1 is particularly busy during weekends (Friday-Sunday), public holidays, and from Christmas through to the and of January. There are also significant roadworks in this area, due to construction of the new motorway. We recommend kayaking as it is much safer and more enjoyable than walking these busy roads.

 

Description

Conditions

Cross SH1 with extreme caution as cars are travelling at 80-100km/h.  Walk as far off the road shoulder as you can, on the far side of the barrier fence where this is possible.

Potential hazards

• Vehicles on road or track. Walk well off the road, over barrier where possible
• Motorway construction and road works. Follow any instructions given by traffic management staff and signage.
• Track exposed to sun, wind or cold
• Few water sources

Access

Northern Start: Puhoi Village

Southern End: Wenderholm Regional Park

Accomodation

Wenderholm Regional Park - Basic camping, duty ranger - Auckland Council - P: 09 366 2000

There is camping available at the Schischka Campsite, turn left and walk 1km just after the Wenderholm main gates. 
Please do not freedom camp anywhere else within Wenderholm Regional Park.

Intro

Te Araroa trail section: This section includes a low-tide walk and rock hop, and a fantastic view of the trail down Orewa Beach.

Description

Conditions

Access

Accomodation

Waiwera

There is no accommodation in Waiwera - the options you have are Schischka campground in Wenderholm Regional Park (north) or hostel/motel/campground accommodation in Orewa (south).

Orewa

Silverdale

Silverdale Bed and Breakfast - 41 Whangaparaoa Rd, Silverdale (600m off the Te Araroa route) - Apartment - Studio - Caravan - P: 09 4211460 - E: Seaside_BnB@xtra.co.nz

Stillwater

• Stillwater Motor Camp - 2 Duck Creek Rd, Stillwater - P: 09 424 7518
• Kereru Cottage - Stillwater Cres - P: 021 832358 (Lisa) 
• Feijoa Cottage - 389 Duck Creek Rd, Stillwater - Contact Jane on 021 037 5338. Set on a rural property in Stillwater, Feijoa Cottage is a fully self-contained home away from home. If you're walking the Te Araroa Trail and want a night of luxury in a comfortable bed, a nice hot shower, to cook up a yummy meal and do your washing - you'll be walking right past their door.

Food and Supply

Waiwera minimart - 2 Waiwera Rd. Waiwera - P: 09 426 1470

Silverdale Centre - 61 Silverdale Street, Silverdale - P: 09 426 4716 - Includes Countdown Supermarket, pharmacy, outdoors store (Macpac), food outlets, The Warehouse, barber etc.

Intro

Te Araroa trail section: Follow Okura Bush Walkway around the coast before crossing Okura Estuary. Be careful not to disturb dotterels.

Description

Low tide route

Check with NIWA for times to walk at low tide. 

Updated advice for Okura Estuary 14 September 2022: The tide calculator will indicate the water depth at the estuary crossing point above a standard level for Okura, of between 0.30 and 1.10 metres. Adding 0.15 m to this number will give a predicted maximum water depth across the deepest part of the channel at the recommended crossing point, near the south shore. Storm conditions and atmospheric pressure may alter this depth slightly.

From the jetty or ramp near the Stillwater Boating Club (Tel: 09 428 2185), walk to the eastern end of Duck Creek Road and the start of DOC’s Okura Bush Walkway. Follow this track around the coast, initially on grass and then along the beach past the historic Dacre Cottage to Dacre Point. At or near low tide you can walk along the beach and rocks below the cliffs all the way. At higher tide level there is a scenic track over the headland before Dacre Cottage. You can wade across the Okura Estuary at low tide (roughly hip-deep at the fourth steel pole marker in from the river mouth) across to the southwest end of the cliffs opposite. From the tip of the rocky Dacre point, look across to the headland. The cliffs at left drop down to a small bay where Te Araroa resumes. To the left of that bay from your view, where the cliffs are low, you should see a tall narrow steel pole. This is the fourth similar pole counting from left to right. Ignore the smaller wooden or white painted poles. From Dacre Point walk across the mud flats to the fourth pole and then turn right to continue into the bay where the grass comes down to beach level. 

Stingrays feed in the shallow water of the estuary.  They are not aggressive, but do not like being stepped on. To avoid contact tap the mud ahead with a hiking pole or splash the surface to disturb them

Northbound: Come off the cliff track into the beach. Turn right towards the river mouth 100m, then cross towards the fourth pole from the mouth. You are looking for thin metal posts, not big white ones, which are further upstream. The fourth pole should have an orange marker attached. This has been dislodged after storms on occasion. Once at the fourth pole turn slightly left and head due west to the tip of Dacre point. 

Southbound: Walk to the very end of the Dacre Point. You are targeting the small bay at the right end of the cliffs nearest the river mouth. The four narrow metal poles are can be seen from that point although it may be difficult to spot the ones nearest to the river mouth. Cross to the fourth pole from the river mouth. The pole to aim for should have orange triangle markers attached. At low water the base of the fourth pole is usually standing on mud just above the water next to the deeper channel. Low tides are variable so the pole may be standing in water even at the lowest tide on some days.

Once across the estuary channel (southbound), veer to the right around the southwest end of the cliffs and up into the Long Bay Regional Reserve. Pick up the coastal (cliff-top) track that heads southeast to Long Bay. Note: This track passes Pohutukawa Bay, a male nudist beach.

While the tide is low it is possible to walk to Long Bay along the beach and rocks below the cliffs. The rock surfaces are very slippery when wet.

Update April 2023. The cliff-top path is closed between km 563 and km 563.5 due to severe and continuing track subsidence. The closed section may be bypassed by using the coastal track between Pokutukawa Bay (km 563) and Granny's Bay (km 564.2)

Update August 2023. The state of the cliff-top path is unknown.  it is possible the the slip has been repaired  

Shallower crossing route including 5km road walk
If the tide is not low enough for the normal estuary crossing there is an alternative crossing point at the sandspit, further up the Okura River
The official route, including the main estuary crossing near Dacre Point, is preferred if you can fit in with the low tide.

Southbound: From Dacre Point continue on the Okura Bush Track until you reach a spit with a shallower crossing to the ramp at the end of Okura River Road. After reaching the Okura boat ramp on the south shore walk up Okura River Road 2.2 km to the pine trees at the top of the hill. Turn sharp left down Vaughan's Road. Follow Vaughans Road and then Piripiro Point Drive for a combined 3 km. There is active road construction at the junction with Piripiri Point Drive but the road remains open. At the end of Piripiro Point Drive there is a wooden gate and gravel path leading to the right of the stockyards for 150 metres to a stile. This is an access track provided by Auckland Council to get around the track subsidence at km 56.5. From the stile follow the marker poles for 350 metres down to the cliff-top path at km 563.2. Turn right onto Te Araroa. From Granny's Bay (km 563.7) you can use the coastal path or the cliff-top walk for 1.5 km to Long Bay

Northbound: Previous road-based bypass routes are no longer available. From Long Bay you can use either the coastal track or the cliff-top walk as far as Granny's Bay (km 564.2.7). If you will be using the normal Te Araroa low-tide Okura Estuary crossing to Dacre point you should continue on the coastal track to Pohutukawa Bay (km 563) to get past the cliff-top path closure at km 563.5.

If you are using the shallower alternative crossing via Okura River Road take the cliff-top path from Granny's Bay up to the track blockage at km 563.5. Cross the stile on the left and follow the marker poles 350 metres to a second stile on the hilltop. Walk another 150 metres of gravel track, passing to the left of the stockyard to cross a wooden gate onto Piropiro Point Drive. Follow Piripiro Point Drive and then Vaughans Road for a combined 3 km to the pine trees and junction with Okura River Road. There is active road construction at the junction with Vaughans Road but the road remains open. Turn right and walk 2.2 km down Okura River Road to the boat ramp and shallower river crossing to the Okura sandspit. Walk down the river bank to rejoin Te Araroa at Dacre Point (km 560.5)

Take special care to avoid disturbing the dotterels nesting and feeding around the Okura sandspit. These birds are now rare and protected. Their vulnerable nesting sites are indicated by fencing, but the birds will often rest on the shore just above the high tide line. Keep well clear to avoid causing the birds to fly unnecessarily.

An older bypass route using East Coast Road and Glenvar Road is no longer usable as Glenvar Road is blocked by a road slip just before the junction with East Coast Road

The Okura Bush Scenic Reserve is currently closed to all walkers because of kauri dieback disease. The closure does not affect the official Te Araroa route, which crosses the estuary without entering the affected area. The Okura Bush Scenic Reserve previously offered an alternative route, following the Okura Bush Reserve track all the way to its end at Haigh Access Road, and then heading out on Haigh access Road to East Coast Bays Road and turn left/south to walk to Glenvar Road.

The estuary crossing can be avoided altogether by following East Coast Road from Browns Bay to Silverdale. Note that there is no access from Glenvar Road to East Coast Road. Take extreme care walking on East Coast Road as it is a high-volume road with traffic moving at speed.

Conditions

Low tide estuary crossing — check the best times for walking. 

Please assess water safety before any water activity — based on the amount of recent rain, tides, currents, waves and your own confidence in the water.

No dogs are allowed at Long Bay Regional Park.

Dog restrictions apply on the beaches.

• Poisons and traps
• Tides, waves and rivers – safer at low tide
• Take extreme care crossing Okura Estuary – cross at dead low tide only
• River crossings – never cross flooded rivers
• Track exposed to sun, wind or cold

Access

Northern Start: Stillwater Boating Club, Stillwater

Southern End: Long Bay Regional Park, North Shore

Transport

• For bus transport to or from Long Bay Regional Park, contact Auckland Transport — P: 0800 103080 or 09 366 6400 

Food and Supply

• The snack kiosk is open only in summer.

Intro

Te Araroa trail section: This walk from Long Bay to Devonport never strays far from the coastline.

Description

Description

• Te Araroa traverses 10 cities. The North Shore Coastal Walk was Te Araroa’s first fully marked-up urban section. 
• The Auckland isthmus is New Zealand's narrowest neck of land, never more than nine kilometres from north to south and less than 2 kilometres east to west. Given the distance, Maori used these as canoe portages, from the Waitemata Harbour and the Pacific Ocean on one side to the Manukau Harbour and the Tasman Sea on the other.
• in 1840, New Zealand's first governor, Captain William Hobson, acquired some 3000 acres of Isthmus land from the Ngāti Whatua chiefs, a triangle whose base stretched some 12 kilometres along the Waitemata southern shore and whose apex was the summit of Maungawhau (Mt Eden).
• Aside from the colonial governors, the best known early Aucklander was the Scot, John Logan Campbell. An adventurer and one of the first Auckland settlers, he became the city's most prominent businessman and mayor. He gifted Cornwall Park to the people of Auckland, with the park still run by a trust he helped to establish. Te Araroa passes by a statue of Campbell in that park. His grave, with the Latin inscription - si monumentum requires circumspice - "if you want a memorial, look about you" - is on the summit of Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill.

Conditions

The trail is a mix of suburban footpaths, steep paths and steps, with some slippery and uneven surfaces and unstable rocks. Wear comfortable clothes and strong walking shoes, carry water, snacks, raincoat, sunscreen and a hat.

Caution: Parts of the signed route are very steep. There are steps and narrow grassy tracks which may become slippery in wet weather.

Potential hazards

• Vehicles on road or track – take care when walking in urban areas
• Tides, waves and rivers – safer at low tide
• Track exposed to sun, wind or cold

Dog restrictions apply on the beaches.

Access

Transport

North Shore

For bus transport to/from Long Bay Regional Park 

• • Auckland Transport for bus or train information - P: 0800 103 080 freephone or 09 366 6400.  All public transport, buses, trains and ferries operated by Auckland Transport uses an AT HOP card for payment.  Cash payments are not accepted onboard buses, trains or ferries.
  • Pre-pay AT HOP cards can be purchased and topped up at many small shops in Auckland and from vending machines at some terminals. $5 card purchase, plus transport credit as required.  It is highly recommended to download the free AT Mobile app for planning any trip in Auckland, whether by public transport or on foot as the app calculates route maps to any address
• North Shore Taxis - P: 09 488 8000
• Fullers Ferries - passenger ferry runs between Devonport Wharf and Auckland CBD. The trip takes 12 mins and generally departs every half hour - check the timetable. P: 09 367 9111. There is no ticket office at Devonport Wharf, but passengers without an AT HOP card can pay at the booth at the city terminal. 

Accomodation

North Shore

• YHA Auckland International, 5 Turner St, Auckland - P: +64 21 505 468 - E: aucklandinternational@yha.co.nz [Re-opened 12th December 2022]
• Browns Bay Olive Tree Motel - 24 Glencoe Rd, Browns Bay - P: 0800 002486 or 09 9294616 - E: contact@olivetreemotel.com
• North Shore Motel & Holiday Park - camping, cabins and motels - 52 Northcote Rd, Northcote - P: 09 418 2578 or 0508 90 90 90 freephone - E: info@nsmotela.co.nz 
• Takapuna Beach Holiday Park - 22 The Promenade (north end of Takapuna Beach) - P: 09 489 7909 - Campsites, caravans and cabins
• Devonport Motel - 11 Buchanan St, Devonport - P: 09 445 1010 - E: anne@devonportmotel.co.nz 

Also, throughout this section, there is a wide range of a variety of accommodation available.

Karin's Villa - 27 Clarence St, Devonport - P: 09 4458689 - E: stay@karinsvilla.com

B&B accommodation with free internet and laundry.

Food and Supply

• New World Supermarket - Local store locations
• New World Supermarket - 2 Inverness Road, Browns Bay - P: 09 478 8057
• New World Supermarket - 35 Bartley Terrace, Devonport - P: 09 445 1217
• Countdown Supermarket - Milford Shopping Centre, 24 Milford Rd, Milford - P: 09 255 2445 
• Countdown Supermarket - Corner of Anzac and Clyde Roads, Browns Bay - P: 09 255 9662
• Countdown Supermarket - 3 Ramsgate Terrace, Mairangi Bay - P: 09 255 2392
• Countdown Supermarket - Barry's Point Road, Takapuna - P: (09) 255 2423

Short detour to Browns Bay Village

A range of shops including supermarket, cafes, banks and a pharmacy

Short detour to Mairangi Bay Village

A range of shops including supermarket, cafes, banks and a pharmacy

Short detour to Milford township

A range of shops including supermarket, cafes, banks and a pharmacy

Short detour to Takapuna township

A range of shops including supermarkets, cafes, banks and pharmacies.

Short detour to Devonport township

A range of shops including supermarkets, cafes, banks and pharmacies. Includes Devonport i-SITE Visitor Information Centre - Devonport Wharf, Devonport P: 09 3659906

Intro

Te Araroa section: The Auckland isthmus is New Zealand’s narrowest neck of land, never more than 9km from north to south and less than 2km east to west. Given the distance, Māori used these as canoe portages, from the Waitematā Harbour and the Pacific Ocean on one side, to the Manukau Harbour and the Tasman Sea on the other.

Description

The Urban Landscape

A warm climate, good rainfall and generous property sizes have encouraged an urban forest of mixed native and exotic trees with gardens at their feet. Street and park plantings date back to the 19th century. The oaks, often grown from acorns from English estates, and the plane trees brought from London reflect the colonial heritage. The distinctive pinnate shape of the Norfolk pines reflects Auckland’s sea-route beginnings - brought to early Auckland in tubs and sold by sailors. Many native trees also prevail in the parks.

The city’s early merchants built grand verandah villas on Princes Street, establishing what would become, alongside the later bungalows, a prevailing architectural pattern.

Native birds include the iridescent blue kingfishers (kōtare), fantail (pīwakawaka), and tui - distinguished by a white throat tuft and a melodious call, and the large wood pigeon (kererū).

Whau trees, whose wood is as light as balsa and were once used by Māori for net floats, still grow on Maungawhau (the hill of the whau tree). The trail passes a small forest of Tōtara and Rimu on the old volcano’s southern slopes, and Cornwall Park’s many native trees include an avenue of Pūriri, which the trail follows, and a young kauri grove. You will find introduced bird species en route, including the sparrow, blackbird, thrush and rock pigeons in the parks. Sizeable grassy areas attract the large black and white magpie and the bright green and red rosella, both introduced from Australia.

Description

The volcanoes

Regarded as still active, Auckland’s volcanic field is geologically young, having produced mainly small-sized cones. Its pocket-sized volcanoes first erupted through the underlying isthmus rock over 50,000 years ago.

The Coast to Coast walkway passes five volcanic sites and passes over the 183m high summit.

Albert Park, now a green shoulder of the Central Business District, is a small, now barely-recognisable volcano. The Domain volcano retains its central scoria cone, called Pukekaroa, and the smooth encircling mound from its initial eruption - the tuff ring. The walkway crosses the scoria cone and exits over the tuff ring to sidle past an adjacent scoria cone at Outhwaite Park.

Many rock walls made from the extracts of the old lava flows shape the trail’s approach to Maungawhau (Mt Eden). To see a remnant of the old field and its original forest cover, follow the detour marked on the map. The trail crosses Maungawhau summit, at 196m the highest summit in the isthmus. The summit crater is virtually untouched.

Maungakiekie (One Tree Hill) has three craters, two breached and one intact.

The people

Auckland is one of New Zealand’s most religiously and ethnically diverse regions, with the largest Polynesian population in the world.

With fertile volcanic slopes, access to sheltered fishing sites, strategic command of land routes, and access to sea routes on either coast and to the greatest inland waterway in New Zealand (Aotearoa), the Waikato River is a significant Māori landmark. The Māori name, Tāmaki Makaurau, translates to ‘the spouse desired by a hundred lovers’. As they contended for control of the Isthmus, Māori tribes reshaped the volcanic cones into formidable pā sites.

In 1840, New Zealand’s first Governor, Captain William Hobson, obtained 3000 acres of the Isthmus land from the Ngāti Whātua chiefs, a triangle whose base stretched some 12km along the Waitematā southern shore and whose apex was the summit of Maungawhau (Mt Eden).

Aside from the colonial governors, the best-known early Aucklander was the Scot, John Logan Campbell. An adventurer and one of the first Auckland settlers, he became the city's most prominent businessman and mayor. He gifted Cornwall Park to the people of Auckland, with the park still run by a trust he helped to establish. As the walkway enters the park, it passes a statue of Campbell. His grave, with the Latin inscription 'si monumentum requiris circumspice' - “If you want a memorial, look around you” — is on the summit of Maungakiekie.

Auckland city, including 65 islands in the Hauraki Gulf, is governed by Auckland City Council, which has within its jurisdiction the largest population of any local authority in the country.

Conditions

Potential hazards

• Vehicles on road or track Take care crossing roads - use crossings where possible
• Farming operations Take care around livestock in Cornwall Park

Dogs on leash only in Cornwall Park.

Access

Transport

• Auckland Transport for bus or train information

Accomodation

There is a wide variety of accommodation available throughout this section including Te Araroa preferred hostels in Auckland CBD:

• Econo Lodge City Central, 37 Wellesley St - P: 09 307 3388
• Metro Adventurer Backpackers, 51 Hobson St - P: 800 112 128
• Base Backpackers Auckland, 229 Queen St (entrance on Darby St) - P: 09 358 4877
• Brown Kiwi Hostel, 7 Prosford St - P: 09 37 0191
• Frienz Backpackers, 27/31 Victoria St East - P: 09 307 6437 
• Nomad Auckland Backpackers, 20 Fort Street - P: 09 300 9999
• Queen Street Backpackers, 4 Fort Street - P: 09 373 3471

Detour to Newmarket Shopping Centre

Includes a range of shops, supermarket, cafes, banks, pharmacies

Detour to Onehunga Shopping Centre

Includes a range of shops, supermarket, cafes, banks, pharmacies

Intro

Te Araroa trail section: Follow the once volcanic coast east of Māngere through a variety of terrain. You'll see birds, sewage works and old Māori garden mounds.

Description

From the end of the Coast to Coast Walkway at Onehunga Bay Reserve head southeast through the reserve. Cross the four-lane Hugh Watt Drive on a foot bridge to Orpheus Drive. 

Follow Orpheus Drive east along the Manukau foreshore until opposite the Airport Harbour View Motel.

The path rises to a junction where you turn right (south) onto the new pedestrian bridge, built alongside the abutments of the older Mangere Bridge that was replaced, partially demolished and now rebuilt for pedestrians, cycles and scooters

The piles of the old bridge were founded on a lava crust from nearby Māngere Mountain. Over the years, the bridge footings broke through the crust and sank slightly. Further damage from a ship collision led to its removal.

When the old bridge was closed to foot traffic, a pedestrian underpass was built under the newer motorway bridge a short distance further along the foreshore. That underpass is still there, but was scheduled for removal in December 2022

Once you've crossed the Manukau Harbour on the new pedestrian bridge, head west along Kiwi Esplanade.  

Alternatively continue south another 250 m up to Mangere Bridge village to enjoy a range of cafes, including the highly recommended Hong Kong Bakery.

On Kiwi Esplanade, follow the coastal margin for 3km to Ambury Regional Park. Keep to the right through the gate to follow the marked grass track around the edge of the paddocks near the shore. 

The grass track finishes through a gate to the access road for the Ambury Park campground. The basic campground has fresh water on tap, toilets and a barbeque. Bookings are recommended. The Ambury Regional Park headquarters, including a ranger’s house, are 250 m up the road.

Book online at Ambury Park Campground or 09 301 0101.

Māngere Foreshore Track - 9km / 2.5 hours

Exit through the kissing gates that mark the Ambury Regional Park’s southwest boundary. Cameron the draughthorse is the main resident on this stretch.

Beyond the kissing gates you’ll see the first signage of the Māngere Foreshore Track, opened in 2005 as part of Watercare’s Manukau foreshore rehabilitation.

There are several shellback bird roosting sites along the foreshore. The first bird hide is signposted from the Watercare track at km 610.8.  A 330 m side track leads to a constructed bird hide with information boards, but the roosting site is no longer used. A 570 m shore path rejoins Te Araroa at km 612, where there is a viewpoint overlooking an artificial island used by South Island pied oystercatchers and royal spoonbills. The best roost site is another 0.6 km south.  It is a peninsula fenced to prevent human access. A bench seat on a knoll provides a view point over the roost. The shellbanks host an array of bird species: godwits, lesser knots, wrybills, spoonbills and the distinctive red at-arms slope of the oyster-catchers' bright bills.

2.5km from the start of Watercares you pass the Māngere Lagoon, part of the Auckland volcanic field. In the 1960s, earthworks for the Māngere Sewage Works sludge ponds in the lagoon damaged the scoria cone at the centre of this explosion crater, and the crater itself. 

The sewage works handled Auckland’s waste for 40 years. Its sludge ponds stood on this shore, and its oxidation ponds webbed the sea on the right-hand side of the track all the way out to Puketutu Island.

Walk on 1km and you’ll see version two of the old sewage works, Watercare’s Wastewater Treatment Plant, opened in 2003.

The new plant can process waste in 13 hours by using clarifiers and ultra violet radiation. The old plant used sludge settlement and oxidation, and took 21 days. These days, the sterile solids are trucked away, and the sterile fluids are released on the outgoing tide at the rate of 25 tonnes a second – Auckland's biggest river. As Watercare decommissions some of the old treatment systems, they have embarked on a project to rejuvenate the area and nurture the abundant birdlife. The Te Araroa track takes you around one of these areas.

Go past the main Watercare works and offices then turn right (west) next to the canal. Then turn again left (south) past the bird roost and continue past the restored area.

From the car park and toilets at km 616.8 follow the sign for Ihumatao Quarry Rd exit

Across the Oruarangi Creek pedestrian bridge, a wooden gate lets you onto a nicely gravelled path that leads past a bird hide, and past white-shell beaches. Some low-lying parts of the path may be muddy.

By now the Otuataua Stonefields are in sight. Volcanic vents once effervesced here, and Māori moved in later to trap the sun's warmth, piling up these stones and expanding the kūmara-growing season. The Māori garden mounds, the storage pits and the drystone walls of later Pākehā farmers are still prominent in this area. Various paths wind through the old remnants of a previous culture. 

Watercare signage on this section is less than helpful and Te Araroa direction signs are faded and easily missed.  A gps navigation app may be helpful in staying on the correct path through the coastal wetlands.  The sign at km 617.5 is poorly placed. The path straight ahead leads to a view point with information signs explaining local history.  Turn left, away from coast, for the Ihumatao Quarry Rd exit. 

A second Watercare sign at km 617.8 is also unclear. The gravelled path ahead explores the shoreline but is not part of Te Araroa. For the Ihumatao Quarry Rd exit go through, or climb around, the galvanised gate opposite the sign and follow the grass track up the slope parallel to a line of trees.

From the Otuataua Stonefields, exit onto Ihumātao Quarry Road and follow southeast. There is a signposted avocado orchard near the end of the road and walkers are invited to sample a few in season.

Ihumātao Quarry Road has been the scene of political protest in recent years.  There are are some signs of this remaining. There are vehicle road blocks around the intersection of Ihumatao Quarry Road and Oraurangi Road, but Te Araroa walkers are welcome to pass through. Please show respect for local sensitivities. 

Turn right into Oruarangi Road, left (east) into Ihumātao Road for 3kms. Turn right/south into George Bolt Memorial Drive for 1km, and past the Airport Shopping Centre (and the Airport to the south). Turn left (east) into Tom Pearce Drive, and follow it for 1.5 km as it turns south. Turn left/east onto Puhinui Road and follow it for 3km. Turn right into Price Road. Follow Price Road for 1km down to Puhinui Reserve.

Northbound directions for Otuataua Stonefields

From George Bolt Memorial Drive turn left into Imumatao Road for 3 kms.  Turn right (northeast) into Oruarangi Road.  After 0.75 km walk past the road block and turn left into Ihumatao Quarry Road. At the end of the road (1 km) there is signage and a wooden gate.  The route now follows a grass track to the right beside a row of pine trees.  Cross a galvanised gate at the and of the track and turn right (northeast) onto the Watercare Coastal Walkway.  At km 617.5 turn right (east) again and continue another 0.6 km to cross the Oruarangi Creek pedestrian bridge

Conditions

Track standard: Walking track

• Vehicles on road or track - take care crossing roads, especially around the airport
• Farming operations
• Open drains
• Track exposed to sun, wind or cold

Access

Northern Start: Onehunga Bay Reserve, Beachcroft Ave
Southern End: Puhinui Reserve, Price Road

Intro

Te Araroa trail section: Make your way through Wiri to Auckland Botanic Gardens.

Description

Conditions

Potential hazards

• Vehicles on road or track – take care in urban areas
• Few water sources recommended not to drink from Puhinui Stream

Leave gates as you find them.

Access

Transport

• Bus stops on Hill Rd

• Auckland Transport - for bus or train information - P: 0800 103 080 freephone or 09 366 6400.  All public transport, buses, trains and ferries operated by Auckland Transport uses an AT HOP card for payment.  Cash payments are not accepted onboard buses, trains or ferries.

  • Pre-pay AT HOP cards can be purchased and topped up at many small shops in Auckland and from vending machines at some terminals. $5 card purchase, plus transport credit as required.  It is highly recommended to download the free AT Mobile app for planning any trip in Auckland, whether by public transport or on foot as the app calculates route maps to any address

Accomodation

Heaven's Rest B&B - 180A Mill Road, Bombay.  0223121462 and email is info@heavensrest.co.nz 

• One night’s accommodation in one of our rooms or cabins 
• Pick up and drop off to the Te Araroa Trail 
• Continental breakfast
• Free laundry facilities and use of full kitchen
• $20 discount on any massage treatment*

The price is $119 for 1 person or $129 for 2.

Here is a link to the package

Drury Hills Nest – Drury Hills Road P: 022 692 3054 (Hannah) or 021 566 527 (Jono) E: druryhillsnest@gmail.com – Spacious, self-contained detached accommodation, comfy super king bed, heat pump, wifi and a flat-screen TV. Continental breakfast provided. Happy to accommodate up to two kids, too. 

Food and Supply

• Westfield Mall - Corner Great South and Wiri Station Rds, Manukau. Full range including supermarkets, shops, café, banks and pharmacies available.

Intro

Te Araroa trail section: You will walk over Mount William, but this section no longer takes in the Hunua Ranges due to kauri dieback disease and other developments.

 

Description

Exit the Botanic Gardens into Wairere Road, and follow it to its end. Turn right/southwest into Hill Road and follow that down 300m to a three-way roundabout. Turn left/southeast into Stratford Road, for 600m to a large roundabout intersection.

Previously Te Araroa included part of the Hunua ranges. The trail was damaged by a storm in 2015-16, and devising a suitable detour without encroaching on private land proved difficult. Later concerns around kauri dieback disease resulted in a complete closure of Hunua hiking trails for a time. Te Araroa was adapted to follow an alternative route that used minor roads through Clevedon and Hunua village to reach SH2. The long road walk to Clevedon included some sections considered dangerous. A further modification eliminated the walk to Hunua village and moved the trail closer to the main highway using urban roads.

The bypass starts here for 36.5km in a direct line to return to the trail through urban areas as much as possible for footpaths.

Turn right/southeast into Ranfurly Road. Head along Ranfurly Road for 150m and turn left into Porchester Road. Follow Porchester Road for 5km until it bends left into Ingram Street. Take the first right into Prictor Street, cross the five way junction/roundabout South into Marne Road. Turn right into Settlement Road, cross over the railway then after 650m, turn left into Great South Road. You will pass historic Kirks Bush Scenic Reserve on the right/west. 

Follow Great South Road for 3.7km to the roundabout in Drury, km 651.8

Turn left (east) across the bridge onto Waihoehoe Road and continue 2.7 km to the end, then turn right (south) onto Drury Hills Road.  At the intersection with Fitzgerald Road turn left (south) down the hill on Jack Stevenson Road through the new industrial development.  At the southern end of Jack Stevenson Road (km 657.4) there is a pedestrian path through to Ramarama Road.

At the end of Ramarama Road turn right into Ararimu Road past the school and then leftt (south) into Hillview Road.

Follow Hillview Road for 4 km and cross Portsmouth Road into Barber Road for 1km.  After passing the school on your right turn right (west) down Paparata Road towards Bombay.  Turn left into Bombay Road and continue onto Razorback Road.  Pass Beaver Road East on your right.  Turn left (east) into Puketutu Road and after 1 km enter the Mt William Walkway for break from road walking.

At the southern end of the Mt William Walkway continue south on McMillan Road for a short distance, then right (south again) onto Irish Road to meet State Highway 2 (SH2). 

Turn left/east along the SH2 for 2km. This is an extremely busy road with limited road shoulder.  Cross careful into Serpell Road

Northbound directions from Hillview Road (km 659) to the Drury roundabout at km 651.2

Included here because the route has changed in early 2021 and the Drury South Crossing construction area requires extra care.

At the northern end of Hillview Road turn right on Ararimu Road, past the school, then left into Dale Road.  At the northern end of Dale Road there is a pedestrian footpath through to Jack Stevenson Road.  Walk north on Jack Stevenson Road for 1.5 km.  At the top of the hill turn right (east) into Drury Hill Road.  After 2.5 km turn left (west) into Waihoehoe Road.  Follow this for 2.8 km to the roundabout on Great South Road (km 651.8).  Turn right.

 

Conditions

Potential Hazards

• Construction traffic around the Drury South Crossing industrial site
• Farming operations
• Few water sources

Access

Northern Start: Wairere Road, Totara Park
Southern End: End of McNicol Road, Clevedon

Transport

Joanne

Accomodation

• Conifer Grove, about 2.5 km from Porchester Road Takanini. We are able to offer tent space in our backyard and access to bathroom for shower. Also have washing machine available and may be able to pick walkers up from Auckland Botanic Gardens if needed. Would prefer a pm through Messenger and am a member of the Trail Angels group. Joanne Schroeder 027 255 2275 Not available 1st Feb to 29th February.
• Applaud Bed and Breakfast - check it out on booking.com - or text Robert on 0274 928 965 - Homestead for a bed and room for tents - plenty of showers and hot water. Free wifi.
• Heavens Rest B and B - 180a Mill Road, Bombay. We are a small B&B providing rooms and self contained tiny houses in Bombay, just around the corner from the trail. We offer special rates for Te Araroa trampers including pick ups and drop offs. Call or text Robert on 022 23121462 or email on info@heavensrest.co.nz

Intro

Te Araroa section: Please note, the forested areas of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, and 10 higher-risk tracks in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park, are now closed to protect trees from kauri dieback disease and prevent its spread.

The Ministry for Primary Industries has also issued Controlled Area Notices (CANs) that apply across the whole of the native forested area of the Hunua Ranges regional parkland.

Description

Wairoa River Track — 4km / 1.5-2hr

• Potential hazards: Forestry operations; small stream crossings

A stile over a fence at the southern end of McNicol Road takes you onto the Wairoa River Track.

The track follows the true right of the Wairoa River, through some pretty stretches of the bush, and is flat through the first 2km before leaving the river to skirt around a gorge section, then climbing to a track intersection.

The track heads steeply downhill and back towards the river at that junction. At the bottom of the hill, it splashes across a small stream draining an interior swamp and enters a small pine plantation. The track is not particularly well marked here, but if you trend right towards the unseen river, you’ll soon break out of the forest.

From there, follow an easy grassed terrace with the Wairoa River in view below.

Continue through an old farm gate, then a final stretch along what was once a bulldozed access road. The boundary of the Hunua Ranges Regional Park is marked by the track going back into the bush. You need to pay attention to the markers here; there’s also one slippery scramble down to and across a stream before ascending on steps up to Cossey Access Road.

Hunua Ranges Track — 30km / 1.5 days

• Potential hazards: Bikes; Stream crossings; Tracks in the southern part of this track require good tramping/navigation skills; farming operations.

Note: Conservation and farming areas — NO domestic animals allowed (includes dogs, cats or birds)

Enter the Cossey Gorge Track off Cossey Access Road (also called Massey Road) 700m uphill from the Wairoa River Track exit. Walk down the steps to join Massey Track. 

It is a short detour from here to view the Hunua Falls; however, please note camping is not allowed adjacent to the Falls. There are also a few “camps” shown nearby on some maps — note these are private facilities and no accommodation is available for Te Araroa walkers — you’ll need to plan to make it through to the small campsite on Repeater Road or the Upper Mangatāwhiri campsite a bit further on.

Follow the Massey Track southeast 3.5km to join with the Wairoa-Cosseys Track, a 6.5km tramp with views across the Wairoa Reservoir, around to the dam itself, where there’s a picnic ground. Take the Wairoa Loop Track from here to Repeater Road. About 1km along this road, at the junction with the Challenge MTB Track, there’s a campsite with a basic shelter, rainwater, and a composting toilet. If you’re not stopping, stay on Repeater Road, just over 1.5km to its junction with Moumoukai Road. There’s a parking area and a locked gate – usually left open. This section of the park network is set aside for cycling, but there’s plenty of room.

Turn sharp left (northeast) down Moumoukai Road 2.5km to the junction with Mangatangi Hill Road. 

If you want to camp at this point, continue straight ahead (north) another 400 metres to the Upper Mangatāwhiri camping area with flush toilets and water (water needs to be boiled for 3 minutes).

To continue the through route, turn right (southeast) at the Moumoukai Rd / Mangatangi Hill Road junction and follow along another 2km to the intersection with Manning Road. Follow Manning Road for 1.5km to the turnoff to Moumoukai Valley Road on the right (south). This road has an old ford across the Milne Stream that’s been washed out and never replaced, so you have to walk across the stream to find the road again. Follow Moumoukai Valley Road 2.5km to the Lower Mangatāwhiri Campsite. 

From the campsite, the Lower Mangatāwhiri Track crosses the Mangatāwhiri River. The track heads in the bush up to Peak 445 and continues along the ridge past Peak 234 to a spur above the Mangatāwhiri River. It then descends sharply down to the river.

The largely-bush section from the Lower Mangatāwhiri Campsite is just over 6km, and you need good tramping skills. It’s marked but not otherwise formed, and you should be careful to follow the orange triangles as other tracks intersect it en route.

The track descends off the last steep ridge to a new swing bridge crossing the Mangatāwhiri (here, the river is further from its headwater, so it rises swiftly after rain). The route then goes straight ahead, along the inside of the farm fenceline (there’s DOC land above the farm) until it crosses Mallingtons Farm, along the side of a stream out to Lyons Road.

Please use the boot cleaning station as you exit to help protect against the spread of kauri dieback disease.

Conditions

Potential hazards:

• Bikes
• Stream crossings
• Tracks in the southern part of this track require good tramping/navigation skills
• Farming/Forestry operations

No domestic animals allowed (includes dogs, cats or birds)

Intro

Te Araroa section: Follow the Mangatāwhiri River past Dutch-style polders to connect with historic Mercer, where the first invasion of the Waikato took place. Finish on the banks of the Waikato River.

Description

Follow the stopbank, which is on the true left of the Mangatāwhiri River – that is, the left bank as you face downstream. One low-lying area about halfway along may flood, but only after heavy rains. After a 2.5km walk down the stopbank, you’ll come to a drainage ditch about 10m wide. At this point, the stopbank and the track route turn left at a right angle and follow the drainage ditch inland for about 1km before finishing at the McIntyre Road end. A pump station is there for an Archimedes Screw, which is part of the drainage.

If you want to see what this land was like before being modified, look across the drainage ditch, and you’ll see the natural swamp run by the Auckland/Waikato Chapter of Fish and Game. 

• Note: After heavy rain and when the river is running high, this route may be underwater — check conditions carefully, and if the water is high, use Koheroa Roa from SH2 to Mercer as an alternative.

Mercer — 4.5km / 1.5 hours

McIntyre Road is a little-used road serving only a few houses. It has views across the Fish and Game swampland and a relaxing shady section before it reaches the junction with Kellyville Road. 

After crossing the railway line, follow the markers into the trees opposite and under the Southern Motorway bridge. 

Turn left/south and follow the marked route parallel to the motorway 1.5km to the Mercer Service Centre — where a petrol station, cafe and food court are available for refreshments before you leave the Auckland region and enter Waikato.

Conditions

Potential hazards

• Vehicles on road or track
• Farming operations Occasionally farm animals. Also temporary electric fences (can be stepped over).
• Open drains
• Track exposed to sun, wind or cold
• Few water sources

 No dogs allowed

Access

Transport

The Auckland region conveniently ends at the Mercer Service Centre, SH 1, Mercer.

It is well serviced by long haul bus companies such as: 

• InterCity - P: 09 583 5780 - E: info@intercity.co.nz 
  
• Northliner Express Coach Service - P: 09 307 5873 

Accomodation

• Mercer Motel - 2 Roose Rd, Mercer - P: 09 233 6555 - E: info@mercermotel.co.nz - Newly renovated motel units from $145 per night, there are also cabins for $75 pp and camping is $20 per night for one person and $30 for two people.  For camping, check in with the team at Mercer Landing and they’ll direct you.

Food and Supply

• Mercer Landing Kitchen & Bar – 6 Roose Rd, Mercer – P: 09 236 8641 – Newly renovated restaurant and bar.  Open Wednesday-Sunday 10am-Late, with coffee and pastries available for takeaway from 7am daily.  Packed lunches available upon request.