Waikare Connection – by Road Bypass

Walking this section

Introduction

The Russell Forest Track has been removed from Te Araroa following consultation with local iwi. The routes described lead to the eastern end of Papakauri Road, near km 287.

Two options exist to negotiate the Waikare Inlet from Paihai or Opua through to the Punaruku Estuary on Whangaruru Harbour

Waikare Connection - by Water
Waikare Connection - by Road Bypass via the ferry from Opua to Okiato.

There is also the option to ferry from Paihia to Russell (and a chance to explore some of New Zealand's history in Russell), and take the Russell to Okiato walkway until you get to the Gas station at the junction of Aucks road. Alternatively, connect with Sheryl Wikaere and travel with her to Waikare - (there will be a cost involved and this is unsuitable for bigger groups)

Waikare Connection - by Road Bypass

By road via Ferry from Opua to Okiato - 14km

Walk from Paihia 6kms to Opua and take the vehicular ferry over the Veronica Channel to Okiato. From there, follow Aucks Rd for 5 km to the GAS Russell Garage at the junction with the Russell Whakapara Rd. Continue east into Russell-Whakapara Rd for another 9 km to the junction with Waikare Road at km 268.9, where walkers who have taken the kayak option via Waikare will join your route.

If you want a more relaxing route between exiting the ferry and joining with the Russell Whakapara Rd, turn left into Pipiroa Rd soon after leaving the ferry and link to the “Okiato to Russell Walkway”. This goes through wetland, bush, and around cliffs to rejoin Aucks Rd just before its junction with the Russell Whakapara Rd.

By road via Ferry from Paihia to Russell

Catch a ferry to Russell from Paihia at km marker 245.2, and then walk through Russell township and up Florence Ave. Beside the refuse centre there is a trail that takes you beside and off the main road, over boardwalks and through coastal mangroves, all the way to GAS Russell Garage (5kms) on the corner of Aucks Road and Russell Whakapara Road. Continue east into Russell-Whakapara Rd for another 9 km to the junction with Waikare Road at km 269, where walkers who have taken the kayak option via Waikare will join your route.

Getting there

Northern Start: Opua Wharf, Opua, Bay of Islands

Southern End: Waikare

Elevation 364 m ascent · 0–68 m

0 km 13.5 km

GPX Full trail map

Track conditions

Vehicles on road or track.
When road walking, walkers should should wear high visibility clothing or accessories, not wear any earbuds, and remain vigilant for traffic. Walk on the right side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, where possible.
If kayaking, be alert for other water users
Poisons & traps
Small stream crossings
Track exposed to sun, wind or cold

Accommodation

Russell Outback Eco Retreat - Near the corner of Russell Whakapara Road and Paroa Bay Rd, 10.7 km from Okiato. 17 Paroa Bay Road. Call or text Clair on 021 558 514

4 single dorm beds available, $30/ person, composting toilet, hot shower, basic kitchen.
AirBnB cabin bunks available $40/ person, composting toilet, hot shower, kitchen with gas hob.
Limited camping $20 per person.
Linen extra $10 for duvet and towels