Kaipara's Kauri Coast Walks & Tracks

Maungaraho Rock

Access: 11 km south of Dargaville, off SH 12. Turn left into Mititai Road and follow the road to the base of the rock

Time: 45 min walk around the base plus 30 minutes to summit

This interesting feature on the landscape is a huge rocky outcrop rising from the countryside not far from Toka Toka. The track to the summit, which leads off the lower track, takes another 30 minutes. Please note that the summit track is for experienced walkers only, as it is steep and entails some climbing. In places ropes and ladders assist this. There are wide views from both tracks.

Kai Iwi Lakes

Access : Taharoa Domain, 35 km northwest of Dargaville

Time: 1 hour leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Taharoa; a 1.5 hour return walk across farmland to Ripiro Beach or 3 - 4 hours return walk to Maunganui Bluff

These 3 crystal clear freshwater lakes are fringed by white silica sand and set amid farmland and pine plantations.

The track to the coast crosses farmland before dropping down sand dunes and low cliff to the beach. From where the track meets the beach it is a 1.5 hour walk to the rocky base of Maunganui Bluff at Aranga Beach to the north.

Toka Toka Peak

Access : 17 km south of Dargaville, off SH 12 on Toka Toka Road. The entrance is to the track is 1 km along Toka Toka Road. Time: 20 – 30 min return

A rare volcanic phenomenon – the plug or core of a volcano. Toka Toka is easily recognized on the landscape by its sharply symmetrical shape. The track climbs steadily all the way, with a very steep but short climb at the very top. There are extensive views from the top. In the pioneer days, the river pilot lived at the base of Toka Toka and would climb the peak to watch for sailing ships in the Harbour to the south. The peak is very significant to local Maori and features in their mythology and history. In winter or when the track is wet sturdy footwear is essential.

Baylys Beach Walkway

Access: End of Coates Ave in Baylys Beach, 13 km west of Dargaville. Time: a 20 minute walk across sand dunes and low cliff.

The track joins Chases Gorge and Baylys Beach settlements and gives some idea of the wild majesty of this coast. You may see seals, dolphins or whales. This part of the beach is a favorite spot for surfers. Tidal rips and off shore holes make it dangerous for inexperienced swimmers.

Kauri Bushmen’s Memorial

Access: Paparoa, 1.5 km along Sterling Road, off SH 12. Time: 30 minute stroll on easy tracks.

This small reserve is a living memorial to the bush men of a past era who lived, worked and sometimes died in the region’s kauri forests. It contains an exceptionally good stand of kauri with many young kauri (rickers) along with other species including rimu, totara, miro, lancewood, kauka and many tree ferns.

Pouto Point to Lighthouse

Access: 66 kms south of Dargaville at end of Pouto Peninsula. Time: 7 km walk along the shore. Allow 4—5 hours

A walk along the harbour mouth and then an energetic 10 minute climb up sand dunes leads to this three storey wooden lighthouse built in 1884. An area (not accessible by foot) called “Shipwreck Gully” is the graveyard of over 150 shipwrecks (with some still visible today).

Guided Walks

Trounson Kauri Park Kiwi Night Walks - Experience the sights and sounds of the forest at night. A rare opportunity to go on a guided walk to observe our great Kauri Forest. Weta, glow-worms, Kokapu, kauri snails, eels, owls (NZ Morepork) and kiwi are some of the things you may see. DOC concession. Every night - weather permitting. Departs from the Kauri Coast Top 10 Holiday Park. Bookings essential. www.topparks.co.nz