Walking Must-Do's 2020

MUST YOUR FREE COPY

New Zealand walks from 30 minutes to multi-day

DOs

Featuring Short Walks, Day Hikes & Great Walks • Walk Descriptions • Maps • Safety Tips • Things to See & Do • Places to Stay

aatraveller.co.nz

Lake Matheson, West Coast © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

TE ARAROA, NEW ZEALAND’S TRAIL

AUCKLAND

Lace up with The Great Journeys of New Zealand.

Whether you’re a trailblazer, Sunday stroller or simply looking to explore Middle Earth, there’s an adventure out there for you. Our scenic trains and ferry offer an easy way to travel and explore with hop-on-hop-off excursions, so you can experience New Zealand’s spectacular walking trails.

• Matamata • Waitomo

Tongariro National Park •

Paraparaumu • • Nelson

Find out more: greatjourneysofnz.co.nz 2

GREYMOUTH

PICTON • Kaikōura

This long-distance trail runs the length of New Zealand, from Cape Rēinga in the north to Bluff at the bottom of the South Island. Officially opened in 2011, the 3000km trail is New Zealand’s equivalent of the Appalachian or Pacific Crest Trail in the USA or the Bibbulmun in Australia. It follows the route of several tracks, including the Queen Charlotte and Harper Pass tracks and parts of the Travers-Sabine circuit and St James Walkway. For more information visit www.teararoa.org.nz

The first step is to get yourself to the track entrance. Here, the out-of-doors begins to unspool, leading away beneath a forest canopy, or across fields, along a salty coastline, a mountain range, or the flank of a volcano. New Zealand is known for the diversity of its landscapes and so too for its range of walks.

E

ven if it’s a 15-minute loop to some stalwart tōtara, the walk will be a natural refreshment, but on longer tracks the walk itself will be sufficient reason to go. That splitsecond placement of your leading foot, and the delicate dynamic of moving forward on uneven ground absorbs attention, and together with the hypnotic regularity of the footfall, takes you imperceptibly to

another zone. You look up, and the world has changed.

The sighing forest in its dappled light, or the water sounding over rock have no meaning now beyond themselves, and it’s enough.

The surrounding nature seems suddenly more open, more inclusive, and in these long immersive moments, you know you’re meant to be here. You’re meant to just walk.

Or maybe it’s more simple than that. I once asked an inveterate walker why he did it and the answer was: ‘Because I’m here, and not there.’ Whether it’s the loop walks, or day walks, or the longer multi-day walks listed in these pages, that answer will do for all of them.

Founder of Te Araroa

GEOFF CHAPPLE

• Lake Brunner Arthur’s Pass •

• Waimakariri River

CHRISTCHURCH

WALKING MUST-DO’S 1

Lake Matheson, West Coast © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

TE ARAROA, NEW ZEALAND’S TRAIL This long-distance trail runs the length of New Zealand, from Cape Rēinga in the north to Bluff at the bottom of the South Island. Officially opened in 2011, the 3000km trail is New Zealand’s equivalent of the Appalachian or Pacific Crest Trail in the USA or the Bibbulmun in Australia. It follows the route of several tracks, including the Queen Charlotte and Harper Pass tracks and parts of the Travers-Sabine circuit and St James Walkway. For more information visit www.teararoa.org.nz

The first step is to get yourself to the track entrance. Here, the out-of-doors begins to unspool, leading away beneath a forest canopy, or across fields, along a salty coastline, a mountain range, or the flank of a volcano. New Zealand is known for the diversity of its landscapes and so too for its range of walks.

E

ven if it’s a 15-minute loop to some stalwart tōtara, the walk will be a natural refreshment, but on longer tracks the walk itself will be sufficient reason to go. That splitsecond placement of your leading foot, and the delicate dynamic of moving forward on uneven ground absorbs attention, and together with the hypnotic regularity of the footfall, takes you imperceptibly to

another zone. You look up, and the world has changed.

The sighing forest in its dappled light, or the water sounding over rock have no meaning now beyond themselves, and it’s enough.

The surrounding nature seems suddenly more open, more inclusive, and in these long immersive moments, you know you’re meant to be here. You’re meant to just walk.

Or maybe it’s more simple than that. I once asked an inveterate walker why he did it and the answer was: ‘Because I’m here, and not there.’ Whether it’s the loop walks, or day walks, or the longer multi-day walks listed in these pages, that answer will do for all of them.

Founder of Te Araroa

GEOFF CHAPPLE

WALKING MUST-DO’S 1

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Walking Must-Do’s of New Zealand from 30 minutes to multi-day

ISBN > 978-1-98-852330-9 © The New Zealand Automobile Association Incorporated 2019. All rights reserved.

AA, the AA logo and the Tourism pictogram are registered trademarks and the colour combination YELLOW & BLACK are trademarks of The New Zealand Automobile Association Incorporated.

While every care has been taken in the compilation of this guide, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for inaccuracies or changes since going to press, or for consequential loss arising from such changes or other inaccuracies, or any other loss direct or consequential arising in connection with information provided in the publication.

There is no requirement for advertisers in this guide to provide discounts for AA Members; some individual advertisers offer concessions and details of these are indicated in their listings. All content in advertisements was provided by advertisers.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced (except brief passages for the purpose of review), stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of the publishers.

Published in June 2019 by AA Tourism Publishing Ltd Level 1, Building 2, 61 Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay, North Shore, Auckland 0632 PO Box 101 001, North Shore, Auckland 0745 T. +64 9 966 8720 F. +64 9 966 8721 E. tourism.inquiries@aa.co.nz W. www.aatraveller.co.nz ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: T. +64 9 966 8720 E. tourism.sales@aa.co.nz

TOP: Swingbridge © AbelTasman.com TOP LEFT: Milford Sound, Fiordland © Tourism NZ / Graeme Murray COVER PHOTO: Moeraki Boulders, Coastal Otago © Getty Images

4 Walking in New Zealand Introduction 6 Safety in the Outdoors 8 Choosing your Walk 9 NORTH ISLAND MAP 11 SOUTH ISLAND MAP 12 Walking in Northland 14 Rainbow Falls Walks &

Kerikeri River Track 14 Bay of Islands Coastal

Walkway 16 Cape Brett Track 17 Ruapekapeka Pā Track 17 Hātea Loop Walkway 20 Mt Manaia Track 20 Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway 21 Tokatoka Scenic Reserve Track 22 Walking in Auckland 24 Mt Tamahunga Walkway 24 North Shore Coastal Walk 25 Auckland Foreshore

Heritage Walk 26 Coast to Coast Walkway 27 Rangitoto Summit Track 28 Church Bay Circuit 28 Te Atatū Peninsula Walkway 29 Hūnua Falls Loop Track 30 Walking in The Coromandel,

Bay of Plenty & Eastland 32 Coromandel Coastal Walkway 34 Cathedral Cove Walk 36 Kauaeranga Kauri Trail

(Pinnacles Walk) 37 Karangahake Gorge Historic

Walkway 38 Mt Maunganui (Mauao)

Summit Walk 40 Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Walkway

CONTENTS 41 42

44 44

45 47 50 50 51 52

55 56 57 58

58 59 59 60

62 63 64 65 66 66 67 67 68 70 71 72

Cooks Cove Walkway Walking in Central North Island Wairēinga/Bridal Veil Falls Mt Pirongia Summit via Mahaukura Track Ruakuri Walk Blue Lake Track Great Lake Walkway Tongariro Northern Circuit Tongariro Alpine Crossing Walking in Lower North Island Pouakai Crossing Dawson Falls Walking Tracks Bridge to Nowhere Walk Manawatū Gorge Tawa Loop Walk Ōrongorongo Track Mākara Walkway City to Sea Walkway Walking in Marlborough & Nelson Tasman Wainui Falls Track Abel Tasman Coast Track Tākaka Hill Walkway Heaphy Track Queen Charlotte Track Lake Chalice Hut Walk Lake Rotoiti Circuit Speargrass Track Walking in the West Coast Oparara Arch Walk Charming Creek Walkway Cape Foulwind Walkway

73 Truman Track 73 Paparoa Track & Pike 29

Memorial Track 74 Hokitika Gorge Walk 75 Franz Josef Glacier Walk 75 Lake Matheson Walk 76 Walking in Canterbury 78 Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway 79 Mt Isobel Track 82 Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track 83 Round the Mountain

via Curry Track 84 Devils Punchbowl Walking Track 84 Kura Tāwhiti Access Track 85 Peel Forest Park Scenic

Reserve Walks 85 Caroline Bay, Timaru Botanic

Gardens & Centennial Park Walks 86 Walking in the Lower

South Island 88 Queenstown Hill Time Walk 89 Bannockburn Sluicings 89 Lake Gunn Nature Walk 90 Routeburn Track 91 Milford Track 92 Kepler Track 93 South Hill Walk 93 Moeraki Boulders Beach Walk

& Millennium Walkway 94 Harbourside Path Dunedin 94 Nugget Point/Tokata Walks 95 Cathedral Caves Walk 96 Rakiura Track

WALKING MUST-DO’S 3

WALKING MUST-DO’S

WALKING

in New Zealand

Hokitika Gorge Swingbridge © Tourism West Coast ABOVE: Castle Hill, Canterbury © selwyn.govt.nz

you’re on a rugged, back-country track or visiting a cultural heritage area.

Preparing for New Zealand’s changeable weather is another essential part of planning your trip. Prepare for unexpected weather conditions. Wind and rain can happen suddenly

New Zealanders are proud and protective of the forests, native bush, rivers, lakes, mountains and coastline that make up our diverse landscapes. Plan your trip to ensure your visit has minimal impact on the environment.

4

despite a good weather forecast.

N

ew Zealand has an exceptional natural environment but you may not know that many of our native

species are endangered. This means it’s vital that when you’re out walking, you think about

Check where toilets are placed on the track before you set out on your walk. Be aware that some tracks don’t have toilets and plan ahead to manage this.

how you can take care and leave no trace.

Dispose of waste properly and clean up after

New Zealanders are passionate about their

yourself – pack in, pack out. That means take

environment and the wild places of New

home everything you bring with you – even the

Zealand are sacred to tangata whenua.

rubbish.

Plan your trip ahead to ensure your impact

Enjoy looking at the wildlife, but don’t feed the

on the environment is minimal, whether

birds. It can harm them and their young. Also

Good to know • New Zealand has some of the best beaches in the world but care is needed when swimming off them. Never swim alone and take particular care on surf beaches. Rips are strong currents of water running out to sea; they’re very dangerous for swimmers but are difficult to identify. Ideally, swim at a patrolled beach and stay within the flags.

• Always lock your car and don’t leave valuables in your vehicle.

• Keep valuables, such as passports, secure at your accommodation.

• Don’t leave bags unattended in public places.

• It pays to have travel insurance when visiting New Zealand.

walking in 4 seasons

Mt Manaia, Northland © Fraser Clements / Tourism NZ

• Carry a mobile phone. In an emergency, dial 111.

NEW ZEALAND CLIMATE Three main factors determine New Zealand’s climate – the sea, the mountains and the prevailing westerly winds. On average, temperatures are mild, rainfall is moderately high and most of the country receives many hours of sunshine throughout the year.

The weather can change quickly, however, and has sometimes been described as ‘four seasons in one day’.

Temperatures differ depending where you are in New Zealand – generally the average temperature drops the further south you go. It is recommended you wear layers, protect yourself from

the sun’s UV rays with sunscreen, hat and sunglasses, and also have an umbrella handy.

SPRING

September-November. Blossoms, lambs and waterfall season. Temperature range (mean) 5-19°C / 41-67°F

SUMMER

December-February. Sun, sea and lakes... great for cooling off. Temperature range (mean) 10-25°C / 50-76°F

AUTUMN

March-May. Golden leaves and the most settled weather of the year. Temperature range (mean) 6-21°C / 43-70°F

WINTER

June-August. Crisp days and snow-covered mountains. Temperature range (mean) 1-16°C / 34-61°F

don’t forget to always stay on the track. You’ll avoid damaging the plants and animals near the track and you’ll have less chance of losing your way.

All walks have good tracks or markers, but some sections can be steep, rough and muddy. It’s important to have the right gear and be sure that the track is within the physical capabilities of you and your friends and family.

ON THE GO

STAY WELL

• New Zealand road rules, maps, time and distance calculations, news of road closures and much more is available from the AA. Go online at www.aa.co.nz or call into an AA Centre for assistance.

• See AA Traveller’s website for road trip itineraries, inspiration for New Zealand travel and accommodation options. www.aa.co.nz/travel

And finally, whether your walk is 30 minutes or four days, take enough food and water and make sure someone else knows your plans.

With good planning your walk will be safe and enjoyable with minimal impact on the environment, leaving you with happy, longlasting memories.

Kauri dieback is a disease that kills kauri trees.

To prevent the spread of kauri dieback, keep to the defined tracks and clean your footwear, walking poles and other equipment before and after visiting kauri forest areas. Stay away from kauri tree roots. Don’t forget to use the cleaning stations required.

Visit kauridieback.co.nz or call 0800 NZ KAURI (0800 695 2874).

WALKING MUST-DO’S 5

SAFETY FIRST

SAFETY IN THE OUTDOORS

Rangitoto Summit, Auckland © Fraser Clements / Tourism NZ BELOW: Paparoa Track, West Coast © Jason Blair

BEFORE YOU GO

1

Plan your trip Know where you’re going.

Check out a map, understand the terrain and find out how long the walk will take. Consider who is walking with you and understand their fitness levels and medical conditions; check everyone has the right gear.

2

Tell someone your plans A trusted family

3

Be aware of the weather New Zealand’s

Think about how to keep safe before venturing out on a New Zealand nature trail, even if you’re only taking a short walk. Be prepared, know your limits and make smart decisions.

member or friend should know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Remember to tell them about any change of plans. weather can be highly changeable. Check the forecast and expect changes through the day. Always be prepared for wind and rain. Be conscious that bad weather increases the chance of having accidents in the outdoors.

4

Know your limits It’s important to be realistic about your fitness levels, and those of the people you’re walking with. Pace yourselves, stay together, stay alert to changes in the environment and the weather and avoid crossing rivers unless you are experienced.

5

Take sufficient supplies What supplies

you need for each hike will vary, but you should always have a waterproof jacket, food, water, hat, head torch and appropriate footwear.

Keep cell phones and maps in waterproof bags.

6

WHAT TO WEAR… • Always take rain protection. Wet and cold clothing contributes to hypothermia.

• Wear sturdy footwear such as hiking boots.

• Keep your core warm: There are

parts of you that are more important to keep warm than others. Focus on your chest, head, feet and hands.

Always have a hat, gloves and warm socks, even on a fine day.

• Wear clothing made of fabrics that keep the heat in. Avoid cotton which doesn’t insulate the body when wet.

SAFETY FIRST The NZ Mountain Safety

from planning your trip at home

Council (MSC) in collaboration

to basic survival essentials in the

with their partners has

outdoors. Easy watching, they are

developed a range of free

perfect for a day walk or even a

resources to help you plan well

multi-day trip.

and make it home safely.

FORGOTTEN SOMETHING?

PLANNING MADE EASY

The ‘Discover Day Walking and

‘Plan My Trip’ is a step by step

Tramping’ eLearning tools guide

interactive planning tool that helps

you through the essential stages

you plan a safe and enjoyable trip

for planning a walk. This step by

while in New Zealand. You simply

step interactive tool helps you

add the trip location, timeframe

learn how to plan and what to

and group size and you’ll get a

consider before you go. Use these

packing list, trip recommendations

before you go and reduce the risk

for the area as well as MetService

of forgetting something before

weather alerts, avalanche

you hit the track. So before you go,

advisories and DOC hut, campsite

jump online and get planning.

and track alerts. You can download this all in a PDF and share with friends before you go on Facebook or by email.

HOW-TO VIDEOS The 29 videos in the ‘Get Outdoors Series’ step you through some of the things you’ll need to know before you head out. They are free to watch online and will take you

Scree descent © Jo Stilwell

Check it Out

www.mountainsafety.org.nz Mobile phones have limited coverage in outdoor areas of New Zealand. For multi-day walks, consider an alternative communication device such as a personal locator beacon or a satellite messenger device or phone.

Take supplies

The Department of Conservation has information on track closures, alerts relevant to conservation areas, weather updates and safety plans on its website – www.doc.govt.nz MetService provides New Zealand’s official weather forecasts. See www.metservice.com for weather warnings, short and long range forecasts and to download a mobile weather app.

Plan your trip

make it home Know your limits

Tell someone

Check the weather

MOUNTAINSAFETY.ORG.NZ

WALKING MUST-DO’S 7

WALKING MUST-DO’S

CHOOSING YOUR

WALK

Whether you’re taking a hike to a mountain summit, a trek along rugged coastlines, a wander through native bush or a stroll across an urban landscape, there are walking options to suit everyone with the urge to go.

Short Walks are promoted by the Department of Conservation (DOC) as suitable for all levels of fitness. They’re between 30 minutes and three hours, easy to get to and are great for families. Short walks are spread throughout the country and provide access to some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery.

Day Hikes range from three to eight hours and are perfect for people looking for compact adventures. The DOC website provides details on a range of day hikes in a variety of surrounding nationwide. Moderate-to-high fitness levels are required.

8

the DOC website of a DOC Visitor Centre for advice on planning and booking.

Urban Walks are managed by city or town councils and include trails through suburbs and across parks and public gardens. There is often a theme to these walks; pick up a brochure from local visitor centres to learn about the

Landmark Walks explore places that have shaped our nation on walks between 30 minutes and three hours long. The Landmarks Whenua Tohunga programme is a joint initiative between the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, DOC and Heritage New Zealand to showcase our country’s most significant heritage places.

history and culture of where you’re walking as you go. Some are available as mobile apps, too.

Guided Walks are a great option for visitors and those not confident with the territory they’re walking. A local can reveal hidden layers of a city or town; a guide on a wilderness track will provide insight and, as they’re likely to be

Great Walks describe New Zealand’s multi-day

familiar with the terrain, ensure your safety.

trails that require at least a moderate level of fitness. They’re very popular, particularly

Whatever type of walk you choose, take heed of

between October and April and accommodation

the track grades to ensure your walk suits your

at huts and campsites must be booked in

fitness level.

advance. Not all tracks are open all year; visit

ABOVE: Pouakai Crossing, Taranaki © Getty Images

NORTH ISLAND MAP North Cape

Cape Spirits Reinga Bay

Great Exhibition Bay Nin

Te Kao

ety

1

ur bo ar

a

H

1 Taipa 2 Cable Bay 3 Coopers Beach 4 Mangonui 5 Hihi

Karikari Peninsula

H ou

il e

hor

M

Houhora Pukenui Be

Doubtless Bay

ac

Cavalli Islands

h

2 5 Waipapakauri Waipapakauri 1 34 Beach 10 Awanui Whangaroa Kaeo Kaitaia Ahipara

Matauri Bay

Kohukohu Rawene Ferry

Lake Taharoa Lake Kaiiwi

Paihia

Bland Bay

Ferry

Whangaruru Oakura Oakura Bay

Kawakawa

15

Omapere

Russell

11

Moerewa

Kaikohe

Hokianga Harbour

Cape

Islands Brett

Lake Omapere

12

Opononi

Bay of

Matauri Bay

Kerikeri Mangamuka 4 Waimate Bridge 3 1 Nth Okaihau Ohaeawai 2 1

1

Broadwood

1 Haruru Falls 2 Opua 3 Puketona 4 Waitangi

Whananaki

Whakapara

Tutukaka

Hikurangi

Trounson Kauri Park Kaihu

Ngunguru

Kamo

15

14

Tangiteroria

1

Whangarei

Maungatapere

12

Poor Knights Islands

One Tree Pt Whangarei Heads Marsden Point Hen & Chicken

15

Dargaville

Ruakaka Wair

Baylys Beach

oa R

TASMAN o pir Ri

Paparoa

Ruawai

12

Matakohe

Co

SEA

Mokihinau Islands

Islands

Uretiti Beach

Taranga

Waipu Island Waipu Cove Mangawhai Heads Maungaturoto Mangawhai Goat Kaiwaka Island 1

ast

Tinopai K ai p

Wellsford Omaha

ar a

Forgotten World Highway

1

16

br

Shelly Puhoi Beach Kaukapakapa Parakai Silverdale

Red Beach Whangaparaoa Pen. Whangaparaoa

Albany

Waiheke Island

Rangitoto Is

18

Muriwai Beach Henderson

20

Piha

Auckland Int. Airport 22

Kaiaua

Pukekohe

Waikato River

2

OCEAN

Slipper Island (Whakahau)

Whangamata

Mayor Island (Tuhua)

26

Mercer 25 Ngatea Hikutaia Meremere Kerepehi Karangahake 1 Te Kauwhata 27 Gorge Waihi Paeroa Waihi Beach Waikino Lake

Glen Murray

Port Waikato

Thames

25A Pukorokoro/ Miranda Turua Wentworth Valley 25

Bombay

Tuakau

PACIFIC

The Aldermen Islands

Tairua Pauanui

a

Patumahoe Waiuku

Thames Coast

Papakura

SOUTH

Hahei Hot Water Beach

25

Thames

Manukau

au M anuk H br

Clarks Bch

of

Red Mercury Island (Whakau)

Mercury Bay

Coromandel Whitianga 3 0 9 Rd

Firth

AUCKLAND

16

Great Mercury Island (Ahuahu)

Waikawau Bay

i nsul Pen

The Classic NZ Wine Trail

Orewa

el

Manawatu Scenic Route

Waiwera

1

Cuvier Island (Repanga Island)

Fletcher Bay

Gulf

and

Helensville Riverhead Kumeu

Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island)

Tryphena

r om Co

Surf Highway

Port Fitzroy

Leigh

Matakana Sandspit Kawau Island Snells Beach Hauraki

Warkworth

H

Te Hauturu-o-Toi / Little Barrier Island

Waikare

Te Aroha Huntly Gordonton

1

1B 23

Rukuhia

Ohaupo

Te Awamutu 31

Otorohanga

3

to ik a Wa

Scale

0

Ri

Te Kuiti

50 km

3

Awakino

North

4

Mokau

M ok

Taranaki

Onaero

Waitara Oakura

Egmont Village

Okato

. Mt Taranaki 2518 (Mt Egmont)

Oaonui

Opunake

Kaponga

45

Kuratau

Whangamomona

43

Pipiriki

49

Normanby Manaia

Patea

3

M

Tangimoana Himatangi Beach

Waitarere

Hastings

Utiku

er Riv ei

Tikokino

Kapiti Island

Te Tai-o-Aorere

Paekakariki RA ST

Karamea Little Wanganui

Rai Valley

Inte r -I

Havelock

Nelson

Tapawera

Richmond

Plimmerton Titahi Bay

Porirua

6

1

Wakefield

Renwick

1

Tawa Petone

sla nd

WELLINGTON F Tuamarina Spring Creek

Blenheim

OK

Hira

60

CO

Motueka

58

Masterton

Lower Hutt

Lake Wairarapa

Eastbourne

63

63

Martinborough

MAP REFERENCE AA Centre Motorway

Sealed

Unsealed

SH 1-9 SH 10-99

State Highway Shield Castlepoint

1

i-SITE Visitor Centre Information Centre

Riversdale Beach

DOC Visitor Centre International Airport Dive Sites

err y

Wellington Int. Airport

Skiing

Wairau Valley 6

Gladstone

Waimarama

Railway/Rail Tunnel

Greytown

53

Cape Kidnappers

Main Roads

Carterton 2

Featherston

Portland Island

Ocean Beach

Blackhead Beach

Herbertville

Eketahuna Alfredton

Waikanae Paraparaumu

Bay

Clive Te Awanga

Black Head

Porangahau

57

Otaki

Upper Hutt

East Cape

. Havelock North

399 Te Mata Peak

2

Pahiatua Pongaroa

Tokomaru

Mahia

Otane

Dannevirke

Woodville

Mount Bruce Mauriceville

1

Paraparaumu Bch Raumati Bch

SOUNDS

Tasman Bay /

Marahau Kaiteriteri

Oparara

Takapau

2

Totaranui

IT

Ngarua

Ashhurst 56

Levin

Golden Bay / Mohua

Mahia Beach

2

Waipukurau

57

56

Foxton Shannon

Nuhaka

Mohaka

Napier

Pukehou

50

Norsewood

1

Wainui Beach

Wairoa

2

Hawke

Feilding

3

Poverty Bay

Bay View

Waipawa

Palmerston North

Collingwood

MARLBOROUGH

Raupunga

Bulls

Manawatu River

Pakawau

Muriwai

Frasertown

River

Putorino

Marton

Pohara Takaka

aka oh

Lake 1 Moawhango

itik ng

Whangara

Gisborne

Makaraka Waikaremoana Tuai

2

Hunterville Rata

Ormond

38

54

60

Lake Waikaremoana

5

Mangaweka

Sanson

2

Mahia Peninsula

Taihape

Whanganui

Bainham

it a ng

50 A

Bight

Whanganui Inlet

Ra

Waitahanui

50

4

Tolaga Bay

Te Karaka Ruatahuna

Taradale

Waverley

Waitotara

Taranaki

Galatea

Waiouru

nui Riv er ga

Kakaramea

South

Huka Falls

Wh an

Tawhiti

Hawera

Ohakune

Raetihi

35

2797 . Mt Ruapehu

4

Lake Rotorangi

Tokomaru Bay

Motu

River

48

Stratford

Waipiro Bay Te Puia Springs

Matawai

Reporoa 38 Golden Murupara Springs

Turangi

Lake Rotoaira

Ruatoria

2

Waiotapu

1967 Mt Tongariro 2287. Mt Ngauruhoe

National Park

Midhirst

Eltham

46

47

1

35

Ruatoki North

Te Rangiita

Tokaanu

Owhango

Inglewood

Cape Egmont

41

Tahora

3A

3

Lake Taupo

Whakatane

Ohope Bch 2 Ohiwa Awakeri 2 Te Teko Opotiki Taneatua Kawerau

Mt Tarawera . 1111

Taupo

Acacia Bay

43

Motunui Urenui

New Plymouth

Kinloch Wairakei

Thornton

East Cape

Tikitiki

34

L Tarawera

5 32

Uruti

Rotokawa

Hicks Bay Te Araroa

Te Kaha

Omaio

L Rotomahana L Rerewhakakaaitu

1

Taumarunui

Ohura

30

Lottin Point

Bay of Plenty

Matata Edgecumbe Lake L Rotoma Rotoma

L Okataina

30

au R iv er

Bight

Lake Rotoehu

Rotoiti Mourea

30 Lake Ohakuri

Pureora

Benneydale

Lake Rotoiti

Whakamaru

30

30 miles

Ra

15

32 v er

Mangakino Piopio

0

33

Rotorua L Okareka

Tokoroa

Hangatiki

Cape Runaway

Waihau Bay

2

36

Lake Arapuni

37

Waitomo Caves

28

27 Okoroire 1 Tirau Lake 28 5 Hamurana Kihikihi Karapiro Putaruru Ngongotaha Arapuni Lichfield Lake Rotorua

Pirongia

Kawhia

24 29

Whakaari / White Island

Motiti Island

Mt Maunganui

Tauranga

Te Puna Papamoa Beach Pukehina Beach 29 Papamoa Maketu Te Puke Paengaroa

Matamata

Cambridge

21

39

Matakana Island

2

26

Hamilton

Te Rapa

Raglan

Morrinsville

i

Waingaro

Katikati

27

Ngaruawahia

ik

Waikaretu

Cape Palliser

Tramping

Seddon Lake Grassmere

WALKING MUST-DO’S 9

WALKING MUST-DO’S

63 STORES SOUTH ISLAND WIDE 10

SOUTH ISLAND MAP

Cape Farewell Farewell Spit

Golden Bay

s

Hira

Mapua

Karamea Bight

Te Mahia

Picton

Richmond

1

Tuamarina Spring Creek

6

Riv er

Wairau Valley

Buller

Westport

Cape Foulwind

Granity

67

Waimangaroa

Buller Gorge Swingbridge

Carters Beach

6

62

S tte rl o ha

nd

Inte rFe Isla rry nd

IT RA

Lake Grassmere/ Kapara Te Hau Cape Campbell

Lake Rotoiti

Rainbow Ski Area

Lake Rotoroa 69

Punakaiki

C

Blenheim

Seddon Lake Grassmere

63

St Arnaud

Murchison

Inangahua

Renwick

63

6

67A

Portage Waikawa

Havelock

NELSON

6

Little Wanganui

Kenepuru Head

Rai Valley

OK

Motueka

ST

Okiwi Bay

Kaiteriteri

60

Oparara

d un So

en

Bay

Marahau

MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS

French Pass (Anaru)

Tasman

ue

Ngarua Caves

Oparara Basin

Karamea

Rangitoto ki te Tonga (D’Urville Island)

Totaranui

Pohara

CO

Takaka

Pe lo ru

Tata Beach

Bainham

Q

Pakawau Collingwood

Kekerengu 1

65

Reefton 6

Ikamatua

TASMAN

Rapahoe

SEA

6

Fox Glacier

Lake Paringa

Lake Moeraki

Mayfield

Lake Ohau Alpine Village

Lake Wanaka

er Riv er oto v

Glenorchy

6

8B

Remarkables Ski Field

6

Lauder Omakau

Clyde

Ranfurly

Te Anau

8

94

Roxburgh

94

Balfour

Middlemarch

94

Waikouaiti Karitane

Lake Mahinerangi

90

Tapanui

Winton

Otautau

99

Wallacetown 98

Riverton/ Aparima

Kaitangata Kaka Point

Tokanui M at

y

au

Ferr

Fortrose Waikawa Riv

Ruapuke Island

Halfmoon Bay (Oban) Paterson Inlet

Rakiura/ Stewart Island

er

ns C atli

Motorway

Nugget Point

Pounawea

INVERCARGILL ra

MAP REFERENCE AA Centre

Balclutha

Clinton

Owaka

Codfish Island

Mason Bay

93

1

Bluff

DUNEDIN

1

Wyndham

1

Portobello

Milton

Mataura

Edendale

Otago Peninsula

88

1

1 96

86

8

Gore 96

Tuatapere

Moeraki

Port Chalmers

Waitati

Lawrence

Mandeville

OCEAN

Palmerston

87

Millers Flat

Riversdale

6

PACIFIC

Hampden

Mosgiel

Lake Hauroko

SOUTH

Waitaki Bridge

Oamaru

1

Lake Monowai

Lake Poteriteri

Riv er

85

Lake Onslow

Waikaia

Lumsden

hao Riv er

Glenavy

Maheno Herbert Waianakarua

Au

Ettrick 97

Mossburn

i

Danseys Pass (North)

a-

95

Cl ut h a River / M at

Lake Roxburgh

W ai

82

W ait ak

Alexandra Kingston

Manapouri

Naseby

85

Canterbury Bight

Duntroon

83

Danseys Pass

Becks Oturehua

Cromwell

6

Bannockburn

6A

Lake Wakatipu

North Mavora Lake

Waimate 82

Lake Dunstan

Frankton

Queenstown

Banks Peninsula

1

Lake Waitaki

St Bathans

Akaroa

Temuka

Timaru

8

8A Snow Farm NZ

Little River Birdlings Flat

St Andrews

Kurow

Cardrona Alpine Resort

CHRISTCHURCH

Sumner Lyttelton Governors Bay 75

Southbridge

Bay

Ashburton River/ Hakatere

Washdyke

Lake Aviemore

83

74

73

Rakaia

Pegasus

Waimakariri River

New Brighton Beach

Rakaia River

79

8

Otematata

Lindis Pass

Lake Hawea

84

Leithfield Beach Waikuku Beach Pegasus Woodend

Winchester

Pleasant Point

Omarama

Arrowtown 94

Burkes Fairlie Pass

Twizel

8

Lake Hawea

Wanaka

Belfast

Darfield

72

Lake Ruataniwha

Lake Ohau

Hurunui River

Waipara

71

Kaiapoi

1

Geraldine

Lake Benmore

Lake McKerrow/ Whakatipu Waitai

Homer Tunnel

8

Ohau Snow Field

Makarora

Sh

Cust

Templeton Hororata Rolleston Burnham Tai Tapu Dunsandel

77

Domett

Lake Opuha 79

Lake Pukaki

6

Lake Alabaster/ Wawahi Waka

72

Ashburton

Mt Dobson Ski Field

Lake Tekapo

80

Mt Brewster .

2423

Haast Pass/ Tioripatea

Lake Wilmot

Methven

Lake Tekapo

Haast

Mt Aspiring / Tititea .

3033

Glentunnel

72

72

Sheffield

77

Mount Somers

Lake Camp

Rangiora

Oxford

Mount Cook

Knights Point

H aa st R ive r

Big Bay

Rakaia Gorge

Lake Clearwater

Mt Tasman 3498 .

3754 .

Aoraki / Mt Cook Aoraki/

6

Bruce Bay Lake Paringa

Mount Hutt Ski Field

Springfield

1

Amberley

n

Lake Heron

73

Waiau River

Cheviot

Waikari

Craigieburn

Lake Coleridge

Lake Coleridge

Hawkswood Parnassus

Rotherham

7

e

Harihari Whataroa Lake Mapourika

Lake Matheson

Lake Te Anau

Waipara Valley Tr a nz

lway Rai

Okarito Lagoon

Franz Josef/Waiau

Lake Manapouri

Hawarden

Arthur’s Pass

Al p i

Otago Goldfields Heritage Trail

Doubtful Sound / Patea

Culverden Hurunui

Hokitika Gorge

Pukekura

Waiau

Jacksons

Arthur’s Pass

Lake Ianthe/Matahi

Kaikoura Kaikoura Peninsula

Mt Lyford Village

Hanmer Springs

The Lakes

Otira

Lake Kaniere

Ross

Milford Sound

7A

7

Lake Sumner 73

Inland Scenic Route 72

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

Moana

Kumara

Hokitika

Mount Lyford Ski Field

Mt Lyford

Lake Brunner

H okitik a Rive r

Lewis Pass

Lake Hochstetter

South Beach

Kumara Junction

Maruia Springs

Springs Junction

7

Greymouth

Alpine Pacific Touring Route

7

Totara Flat Ahaura

Blackball

Co

t as

0 0

Scale

50 km 30 miles

Sealed

Unsealed

SH 1-9 SH 10-99 Main Roads Railway/Rail Tunnel State Highway Shield

1

i-SITE Visitor Centre Information Centre DOC Visitor Centre International Airport Dive Sites Skiing Tramping

WALKING MUST-DO’S 11

NORTHLAND Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway © Fraser Clements

Walking in Northland Take a walk back in time in Northland, where tales of our past are told as you follow the same well-worn trails trodden by our ancestors.

BELOW: Whangaroa Harbour © Alistair Guthrie / Tourism NZ

T

his is a beautiful region

breaks, rare birds, giant kauri trees

a work-out can leave you feeling

encompassing a

and native wildlife to discover,

humbled and inspired.

smorgasbord of natural

and every ability and time limit is

Stand in the very spot where

delights; best explored on foot.

catered for.

A huge variety of walking tracks

Tracks wander through peaceful

Māori and Pākehā with a promise

cover the region’s highlights, from

native forest, alongside gorgeous

of cooperation and peace. Pause at

the little coves, beaches and bays

beaches and climb steeply to

ancient battle sites where peaceful

of the east to the wild, sweeping

soaring heights overlooking the

birdsong and serene outlooks are

coastline and vast harbours of

coast, where it won’t just be the

tinged with a haunting sadness.

the west.

exercise that leaves you breathless.

Visit two of New Zealand’s oldest

There are volcanic plateaus and

The land up here has stories to tell.

coastal plains, exquisite blooming

Immerse yourself in our nation’s

pōhutukawa, impressive surf

history on a heritage walk, where

partnerships were formed between

buildings – the legacy of the European missionaries set amidst the territory of the most fearsome Māori chief, Hongi Hika. A heritage walk here sure can tell a captivating tale.

There’s more than just brilliant walks to this region. Visit Cape Rēinga, the tip of the country where the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea dramatically merge, get out on the water at the Bay of Islands by taking a cruise or swimming with the dolphins, embrace the ‘birthplace of our nation’ at Waitangi, explore Whangārei, the region’s main centre, and wander down the west coast where you’ll find grand kauri and crystal-clear freshwater lakes.

12

Cape Rēinga

WALKS

1 Houhora Whatuwhiwhi Mangōnui

10

Awanui Ahipara Bay

Mātauri Bay

1

RAINBOW FALLS WALK & KERIKERI RIVER TRACK

2

BAY OF ISLANDS COASTAL WALKWAY

3

CAPE BRETT TRACK

4

RUAPEKAPEKA PĀ TRACK

5

HĀTEA LOOP WALKWAY

6

MT MANAIA TRACK

7

MANGAWHAI CLIFFS WALKWAY

8

TOKATOKA SCENIC RESERVE TRACK

Bay of Islands

Kaitaia Omahuta Forest

Ahipara Herekino

1

3

Kerikeri

Russell

PAIHIA Warawara Forest

12 Ōpononi Ōmāpere Waipoua Forest

11

Kaikohe

2

Kawakawa

12

4 1

Mataraua Forest

15 Kaihū

Tutukākā

5

WHANGĀREI

14

Kai Iwi Lakes

6 Ruakaka

Dargaville

Waipū

8

Matakohe

Bream Bay

7

12

Mangawhai

1 Marsden Cross © Dept of Conservation

Wellsford

16

1

Little Barrier Island

Warkworth

NORTHLAND HIGHLIGHTS Many walks in the Lake Tekapō area • There are more than 100 pristine provide incredible views of the lake and beaches located along the Whangārei District's spectacular coastline, from Langs Beach to the Tutukākā Coast in the north – the gateway to fishing and diving trips, including the world-class Poor Knights Islands.

• Whangārei, the big smoke of the region, is renowned for its fascinating museums, amazing waterfront walkway, its Town Basin Marina lined with specialty shops and eateries, and the impressive Whangārei Falls.

• Take in the pure beauty of Doubtless and Mātauri bays on your way to Cape Rēinga.

• With more than 144 islands to explore, the Bay of Islands is an aquatic playground fit for taking a cruise, kayak or jet-boat trip.

• Catch the ferry over to Russell, a charming harbourside town bursting with history – it was once the country's capital.

• Visiting the beautiful Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed, is a must for visitors to the region.

• See Kerikeri's Kororipo Heritage Park before sampling the town's renowned fresh produce and sweet treats, then visit nearby Rangihoua Heritage Park and the Marsden Cross.

Northland's west coast offers something for everyone – career down giant sand dunes on a boogie board at Te Paki, wander through the historic towns lining the Hokianga Harbour, take a walk to awe-inspiring Tāne Mahuta – New Zealand's largest living kauri tree, and laze on pristine white sand alongside the crystal-clear Kai Iwi Lakes.

WALKING MUST-DO'S 13

NORTHLAND

RAINBOW FALLS WALK & KERIKERI RIVER TRACK

BAY OF ISLANDS COASTAL WALKWAY

Walkers can stroll for mere minutes to admire the thundering falls, or venture further downriver for 3.5km to see the town basin.

A full-day walking circuit, including ferry links, that goes from Paihia to Ōpua then Ōkiato to Russell, and includes beaches, boardwalks and birdlife.

1

TRACK OVERVIEW The Kerikeri River is a cool spot for walking and swimming. The very short walk to the falls with its three lookouts is the perfect spot to take a break and stretch your legs when driving long distances. But if time is on your side, opt for the longer river walk (7km return) which takes you from Rainbow Falls to the town basin. The bush is alive with birdsong, including tui and pīwakawaka (fantails), as they flit among the kauri and tōtara trees.

Interpretation panels at the falls provide interesting information about the advent of hydroelectricity, an innovation that transformed the region from 1930. Historical remnants of the first station can still be seen today. Be sure to have your swimsuit handy if the weather is warm, as there are many pools for taking a dip; always exercise caution when swimming near waterfalls and be aware of the falls’ power, especially after rain.

Where is it?

Start at Rainbow Falls Rd for the falls, or start at Kerikeri Basin Reserve if doing the full river track.

Terrain Easy walking along well-formed paths, much of it stroller-friendly.

Good to know This trail is part of Te Araroa, the walking path that goes from Cape Rēinga in the North Island to Bluff at the bottom of the South Island.

No dogs, this is a kiwi area

5-10min to Rainbow Falls from car park; 3hr, 7km return for full walk

2

Where is it?

TRACK OVERVIEW

Start in Paihia in the Bay of Islands, Northland. This trail is wellsignposted with maps available from the information centres.

Terrain Coastal paths, paved sections, boardwalks and a few steps.

No dogs

Approximately 6hr; 16km Reasonable fitness required Undulating with a fair few steps

Basic fitness, suitable for all ages Easy walking

Spend a day discovering the best of the Bay of Islands like you've never seen it before. On foot you'll be able to get closer to native flora and fauna than you would in a car, and you'll be able to spy rare native birds as you go.

Set off from Paihia and head towards Ōpua. This leg of the journey takes you along the beach along a well-formed coastal path with views across to Russell.

Pass several beaches including Sullivans and Te Haumi. From Te Haumi it’s largely paths through bush, as well as along an elegant boardwalk through mangroves.

It takes about 2.5hr and includes some decent climbs so pack plenty of water. At Ōpua you’ll find shops and bathrooms. Then board the ferry to Ōkiato; they run every 10min. Enjoy the brief break before starting the second leg to Russell. From the ferry, walk uphill for about 10min before turning left onto Pipiroa Rd to walk down to the beach. This segment takes about 3.5hr with a mix of flat and steep segments, notably the steps up through native bush.

High above Ōrongo Bay look out for the historic manganese mine site and make sure you have your wallet if you care to stop at the oyster farm. As you walk down to Russell, you may feel like an explorer who has chanced across the most charming historic village where numerous opportunities for refreshing yourself can be found. Stay a night in Russell or take the ferry back to Paihia, where your journey began.

New Zealand pigeon (kereru) © Steve Dickenson

THE KAURI WORKSHOP • Plenty of gift ideas for all budgets.

• Wide range of handcrafted wood made from New Zealand native timbers including kauri, rimu, totara and pohutukawa.

• Overseas shipping available.

• Come on in and see our woodturner at work.

www.kerikeri.co/kauri-workshop 500 Kerikeri Rd, Kerikeri • P: 09 407 9196 • E: kauriw@xtra.co.nz 14

• Quality studios & apartments • Quiet and central location • Sea views • Access facilities • FREE bikes/tennis & BBQ • FREE WiFi & internet kiosk 2 MacMurray Rd, Paihia • Ph +64 9 402 6236 Email: info@admiralsviewlodge.co.nz www.admiralsviewlodge.co.nz

Freephone

0800 247 234

TOP PICKS

NORTHLAND HIGHLIGHTS WHANGĀREI

© Whangārei District Council

Cape Rēinga

Whangārei is New Zealand's northernmost city, where everything is centred around its pretty harbour. The adjoining Town Basin is a charming hub of eateries and culture with specialty shops, galleries, cafés, restaurants and museums. The Quarry Arts Centre, Kauri Creations, Claphams Clock Museum, Kiwi North and the AH Reed Memorial Kauri Canopy Walkway are among the city's most popular attractions. Slightly further afield, the 26m-high Whangārei Falls are a spectacular sight accessible via a 30-minute loop track, and the Abbey Caves Reserve has three caves to explore, complete with twinkling glowworms.

BAY OF ISLANDS A favourite playground for holidaymakers and yachties from around the world, the secluded bays and beaches of the mainland and many of the 144 islands are open to the public; their warm waters, lush vegetation and incredible scenery offer plenty of opportunity for fun, adventure and relaxation.

Marine life is abundant, with dolphins regularly spotted. There's plenty to do: charter a yacht or launch, dive or snorkel, go kayaking, swim with the dolphins or enjoy the famous 'Hole in the Rock' cruise. The pretty tourist-hub town of Paihia is an excellent base for all of these adventures.

The Cape Rēinga lighthouse sits proudly watching the Pacific Ocean collide with the Tasman Sea. The spirits of deceased Māori are said to leap into the waters here to return to their spiritual homeland of Hawaiki. The lighthouse salutes the stretch of land curving south to the giant Te Paki sand dunes - great for tobogganing – and Ninety Mile Beach. © NorthlandNZ.com

© NorthlandNZ.com

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NORTHLAND 3

CAPE BRETT TRACK

© NorthlandNZ.com

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS One of Northland’s most exhilarating walks, the trail winds and weaves along coastal paths before arriving at a Department of Conservation (DOC) hut, where you’ll find a most elegant 113-year-old lighthouse.

Where is it?

TRACK OVERVIEW Picturesque Cape Brett juts out into the Pacific Ocean at the eastern end of the Bay of Islands.

With two ways to attack this walk, you can choose to do the eighthour, 16km hard way from Oke Bay in Rawhiti or arrange for a water taxi to take you from Russell (or Paihia) and start at Deep Water Cove. This second option means the walk to the lighthouse will be a much more leisurely two and a half hours. Whichever you choose, you will be serenaded by choirs of birds as you wander through regenerating native bush along spectacular undulating coastal paths. Occasionally you’ll be sheltered beneath mānuka

canopies, or on exposed narrow trails, before arriving at the DOC hut.

No dogs

16km, 8hr one way from Rawhiti to the lighthouse, or 6km, 2.5hr from Deep Water Cove to the lighthouse. An A to B walk.

Advanced tramping track

*Accommodation to suit all budgets and groups *Amazing rare birdlife filmed by BBC *Kiwi Trail *Wondrous night skies *Pool *Playground *Bikes for hire *Wood BBQs & Pizza Oven *Café & shop on site *Native flora & fauna *EV charging *Enviro conscious *Pet friendly *Central to walking & cycle tracks www.russellaccommodation.co.nz stay@russellaccommodation.co.nz

Terrain Undulating, sometimes steep, much of it in the canopy of regenerating bush.

Need to know A permit, available from Russell Info Centre, is required to walk this track.

Bookings essential if you wish to stay at the 23-bed DOC hut.

Water supplies Water supplies at the Cape Brett Hut are slightly salty from sea spray. Bring enough drinking water for the walk out to and back from the hut.

5960 Russell Road, Russell 09 403 7704

© Photographer

16

Set off from Rawhiti, Bay of Islands (4hr from Auckland, 40min from Russell) and walk 16km or for a shorter walk, take a water taxi from Russell to Deep Water Cove for a 6km hike. © NorthlandNZ.com

The spirit of adventure blows in the breeze in Paihia. Take a trip to the outer islands, swim with dolphins, cruise or speed your way around the beautiful bays or hook your way into a fishing expedition. Don't miss walking the boardwalk to the spectacular Haruru Falls, taking a skydiving or paragliding trip and jumping on a bike to tackle the two-day Twin Coast Cycle Trail.

Russell is a small town across the water from Paihia that wins the heart of all who visit. It has streets of old cottages and a fringe of pōhutukawa lining the shore, and boasts many top eateries – thanks in part to its abundance of freshly caught seafood.

Russell is also the base for many water activities, including sailing on the R Tucker Thompson tall ship, and there's a good choice of walking trails to discover.

4

RUAPEKAPEKA PĀ TRACK

Ruapekapeka Pā Gateway © Dept of Conservation

5

Explore New Zealand’s history on this short, easy walk and see archaeological features such as pits and trenches marking the site of the final battle of the New Zealand Wars in the north.

HATEA LOOP WALKWAY

A pretty urban walk through the Whangārei Town Basin featuring a marina, restaurants, shops, galleries, bridges, parks and playgrounds. To give the walk its full name, the Hātea Loop is also known as Huarahi o Te Whai or the 'Pathway of Opportunity'.

Where is it?

Whangārei Town Basin. This fully accessible loop circles the Hātea River, uniting the basin with William Fraser Memorial Park.

Where is it?

From Whangārei, follow SH 1 north for 35km. Just past the Tōwai service station, turn right into Ruapekapeka Rd and follow this for 4km. You’ll see signs for Ruapekapeka and the car park 300m beyond the intersection where Ruapekapeka Rd meets Kawakawa Rd.

30min; 1.5km loop track Low fitness required Easy walking, suitable for buggies

TRACK OVERVIEW Surrounded by farmland, this loop track starts at the car park and takes you past where the British army had their front line and through sections of native bush. You’ll then pass through the large wooden posts that mark the entrance to Ruapekapeka Pā – a Māori pā designed to be effective as a defence against British muskets and heavy artillery.

Today Ruapekapeka is New Zealand’s best preserved land war battlefield. The ditch and bank defences, a carronade used

by Chief Kawiti and the earthen defences of the British forward position are still visible. Once you reach the top you’ll be rewarded with expansive coastal views of the Northland region.

No dogs

Ruapekapeka Pā’s combination of trenches and strong palisades made it very effective against assault by muskets and heavy artillery. These palisades consisted of two rows, 3-5m-high, made with pūriri tree trunks and split timber and lashed together and reinforced with protective flax padding. These were separated by a 2m-wide track and surrounded the pā.

Terrain Almost entirely paved so accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

TRACK OVERVIEW This 4.2km loop is an excellent way to acquaint yourself with Whangārei. Look out for artworks created by local talents including the stone sculpture Waka and Wave at Hihiaua Point, a depiction of a Māori waka (canoe) piercing a towering wave.

Reyburn House is Whangārei's oldest house, built in the 1870s; today it’s where you’ll find the Northland Society of Arts. There is also a very sweet playground, complete with a liberty swing for

1hr; 4.2km Basic fitness required Easy walking Dogs are welcome

use by visitors in wheelchairs.

Stop to read the interpretation panels as you go as all sorts of interesting facts are brought to life. Time your visit to witness the impressive bascule bridge open to admit boats with masts over 6.5m entry to the basin. Called Te Matau a Pohe, The Fish Hook of Pohe, this extraordinary feat of engineering provides an exciting element to the area while at the other end the Canopy Bridge resembles vast sails.

Stop and linger awhile; highlights along the track include the Whangārei Art Museum, home of the city's art collection; Reyburn House, the city's oldest house built in the 1870s; the fantastic children's playground and petanque court; and the Claphams National Clock Museum.

WALKING MUST-DO'S 17

NORTHLAND

Enjoy spectacular walks all year round in subtropical

Whangārei Auckland

N O RT H ISLAND

WHANGĀREI

Choose from trails in native forest, stroll on superb white sandy beaches, hike tracks with breathtaking coastal panoramas, or enjoy waterside boardwalks.

TUTUKAKA COAST, WHANGĀREI HEADS, BREAM BAY AND WAIPU WALKS. The Whangārei District features an outstanding coastline along with stunning coastal and forest walks. Well known walks include Mt Manaia and Te Whara tracks, both at Whangārei Heads.

There are many others to choose from; discover the longest footbridge in the southern hemisphere, stand beneath Tāne Moana, the largest kauri tree remaining on the east coast, meander along boardwalks through pristine mangrove forests in tidal estuaries, spot rare and beautiful birds, maybe even hear a kiwi calling in the wild.

18

WHANGĀREI CITY WALKS HĀTEA LOOP – HUARAHI O TE WHAI Enjoy the fully accessible 4.2km walkway at the Town Basin; a picturesque international yachting marina with restaurants, cafes and shopping. The entire loop is accessible for walking, jogging, bicycles, mobility aids, scooters and pushchairs. Along the walkway, enjoy the Sculpture and Heritage Trails.

TE ARAROA

- NEW ZEALAND’S TRAIL Walk the length of the Whangārei District on Te Araroa - New Zealand’s Trail which enters the District from the Far North at the Russell Forest Track and passes south through Bream Trail Road.

HĀTEA RIVER WALK The entire Hātea River track travels from the Town Basin in the city to Otuihau – Whangārei Falls via Mair Park, Parihaka Scenic Reserve and the AH Reed Memorial Park. The walk is 6km one way and can be done in sections as shorter walks.

Mair Park From the Town Basin, this walkway includes a boardwalk through mangroves and then along the Hātea River through mature native forest. Enter at Mair Park and follow the river to AH Reed Memorial Park.

Hātea Loop

AH Reed Memorial Park This remnant of the original Northland kauri forests features 500-year-old kauri trees which can be viewed from a boardwalk. Take a short detour to the 23 metre high Paranui Waterfall. Continue following the river to Otuihau – Whangārei Falls.

Otuihau – Whangārei Falls A loop walkway around a beautiful waterfall.

Viewing spots along the track offer fantastic photo opportunities and there are many picnic spots within the reserve.

AH Reed Memorial Park

PARIHAKA SCENIC RESERVE Parihaka Scenic Reserves includes forest walks along the Hātea River and to the summit of Mt Parihaka which takes its name from the haka, or war dance of defiance.

Parihaka was sculpted by early Māori inhabitants into a pā or great fortress. The summit is home to the World War II War Memorial and the special carved kohatu (rock) at the lookout summit represents the mauri (life essence) of the mountain. This walk will take approximately 1.5 hours return.

Otuihau Whangārei Falls

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WALKING MUST-DO'S 19

NORTHLAND

MT MANAIA TRACK

© Fraser Clements

MANGAWHAI CLIFFS WALKWAY

6

7

A visit to the Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway provides you with breathtaking coastal views that extend from Bream Head in the north down to the Tāwharanui Peninsula in the south.

The Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island/Aotea can often be seen on the horizon.

Where is it?

Mangawhai is located on the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, 20 minutes from Waipū or 30 minutes from Wellsford. Access to the track is from the Kaipara District Council car park near the Mangawhai Surf Lifesaving Club at the end of Wintle St. The bush-clad mountain dominates the landscape and is irresistible to hikers who appreciate a dramatic view.

Where is it?

The track starts just above the car park next to the Mt Manaia Club on Whangārei Heads Rd above McLeod Bay, 28km east of Whangārei.

Terrain Moderate fitness is needed, because of the steady climbing – but it’s a good track and worth the effort. The lookouts have no safety barriers, so stay well away from the drop-offs and supervise children. On your return, consider heading straight to McLeod Bay for a swim.

No dogs

2hr return; 4km return, via same track Moderate fitness required Steady and steep climb

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TRACK OVERVIEW

Terrain

TRACK OVERVIEW

The track to Mt Manaia’s summit is a steady climb in the shade of regenerated native bush through groves of nīkau palms and kauri stands with glimpses of northern rātā hanging from pōhutukawa. The wide gravel path changes to wooden steps in the steepest parts and stops, occasionally, at lookouts on natural rocky outcrops.

Thick native forest blankets the terrain, which rises to peaks and falls to deep valleys in mysterious folds punctuated with steep bluffs.

Moderate fitness is required as this is a steep climb with many steps but persevere and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views when you reach the top.

The track starts along the beach, then climbs quite steeply for about 20 minutes to a lookout point.

It then winds past ancient pōhutukawa teetering on the sheer slopes before descending to the stony beach below. From here you can walk back along the beach, but only at low tide. Keep to the marked track as it crosses private property. From the top the view of the beaches below is amazing, and you can sometimes spot large schools of fish being chased by passing whales or schools of sharks. Once you descend to the beach the reward of a cooling dip is a must before the final journey through the archway formed by a unique rock formation leads you on the home stretch along the sandy beach.

Close to the 420m-high peak, the gradient gets steeper and views get more impressive. From the top, the vista takes in Whangārei Harbour, the Hen and Chicken Islands, Bream Bay and the Hauraki Gulf.

The track linking Mangawhai Walk and Cove Rd is closed from 1 Sept–31 October for lambing and calving. The coastal section of the track is unformed, rough and rocky. Walk the return loop (8km) along the beach only at low tide – check tide timetables before you go at metservice.com

No dogs

2-3hr return; 9km via same track Moderate fitness required Steep climb; many steps

Explore Dargaville's pioneering past at Harding Park, where vintage equipment is on display and the museum reveals stories of the area's Māori, maritime, logging and gum-digging history. You can also find out all about Dargaville's reputation as the 'kūmara capital' at the Kumara Box. North of Dargaville is the turn-off to one of Northland's most beautiful spots – Kai Iwi Lakes, where pristine white sand and rolling countryside surround three freshwater lakes, ideal for watersports and camping.

Kai Iwi Lakes © AATP

TOKATOKA SCENIC RESERVE TRACK 8

Thrusting up beside the serpentine Wairoa River, this short steep walk provides walkers with impressive views.

Where is it?

Tokatoka Rd, 17km south of Dargaville, Northland.

Terrain Steep, well-formed tracks, slippery after rain.

No dogs, unless you have a permit

40min return; 700m Medium fitness required Steep walk

TRACK OVERVIEW Stride to the top of Mt Tokatoka for phenomenal 360-degree views of the river, the countryside, Kaipara Harbour and the distant ranges. Follow the short, steep path up what was once a volcanic plug, the aftermath of an ancient eruption. You’ll feel on top of the world when you summit. Possibly a challenge for those who aren’t comfortable with heights, but well worth the effort. The mountain holds special significance to the people of Ngāti Whātua who believe Tokatoka is one of several mountains that made their way to Aotearoa from Hawaiki. One of the group, Manaia, made its way to the Whangārei Heads while another mountain was drowned in the Waiora River. Fearful of meeting a similar fate, Tokatoka and neighbouring Maungaraho decided to err on the side of caution and move no further.

Back down at river level you’ll find the Tokatoka Tavern, where food and cool beverages can be enjoyed.

Riverside Holiday Park • Family park, modern facilities, private sandy beach • Close to restaurants, cafés, tavern, sand dunes, surf beaches, bird sanctuary, golf course • Internet access • Pets by arrangement • 3 s/c cabins: 1 studio unit, 2 x 2-brm units (up to 6 persons) • Power/non-power sites • Tariff: $40-$150 (double)

www.riversideholidaypark.co.nz

41 Black Swamp Rd, Mangawhai Ph/Fax: +64 9 431 4825 Email: office.riverside@xtra.co.nz

Kai Iwi Lakes one of NZ’s best holiday spots!

Kai Iwi Lakes Camp Northland’s shining jewel 35km from Dargaville.

538 hectares of premier recreation reserve with white sand, freshwater dune lakes and 2 campgrounds.

Perfect for camping, swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, exploring walking and cycling tracks, wildlife & close to surf beach.

•O nly 3 hrs from Auckland, 35km from Dargaville •T ent & Campervan sites • Walking and cycling tracks •W ater lovers’ paradise •M obile shop open: 26th Dec - 6th February • Powered sites available Taharoa Domain, Kai Iwi Lakes & Domain Road, Omamari, Dargaville, Northland Phone: +64 9 439 0986 • Email: lakes@kaipara.govt.nz ON-LINE BOOKING: www.kaiiwicamp.nz

• The perfect place to stop, relax and enjoy the stunning white sandy lagoon-style harbour & dunes.

• Surf beach & famous ‘clifftop walk’ nearby.

• A family friendly holiday hotspot & water lover’s paradise • No Pets • Relax on one of our beachfront sites with picture perfect views of the estuary or choose from our nicely appointed accommodation options.

• Shops, cafés, restaurants & golf course nearby.

• Full amenities.

Kayak & paddleboard hire.

www.mangawhaiheadsholidaypark.co.nz • Reservations : 09 431 4675

WALKING MUST-DO'S 21

AUCKLAND

Walking in

View of Auckland from Mt Eden © Getty Images

Auckland

Auckland is a place of incredible diversity, where a bustling metropolis gives way to pretty seaside villages, sparkling harbours, wild and serene coastlines and bird-filled native bush.

Whether you prefer to stroll alongside a shimmering inner-city harbour with coffee stops en route or get into the wild spaces, Auckland has a walk for you.

B

est of all, with so many

along the harbourside, historic

beckon, and you’ll feel a million

of Auckland, that’s easy – look

different landscapes and

reserves beg exploration, fossilised

miles away from the big smoke.

for the telltale peak of a volcano

natural features so close

forests intrigue and cliff-top tracks

Auckland’s west coast is bordered

rising above the city’s skyline. With

by, it’s easy to experience them all in one day.

lead to hidden sheltered bays.

On the city’s outskirts, lush forest

In suburban Auckland, purpose-

trails revealing tumbling waterfalls

built boardwalks wind their way

or secluded sandy beaches

by native temperate rainforest and a stunning rugged coastline.

The wild black-sand beaches and

around 50 extinct or dormant volcanoes in the Auckland Volcanic Field, these unique features make

coastal tracks are great for blowing

for great walking adventures.

out the cobwebs and immersing

Some of the more accessible

yourself in nature.

include the tallest mainland

The islands of the Hauraki Gulf

volcano, Mt Eden at 196m, One

each have their own appeal –

Tree Hill with its interesting history

there’s the bird sanctuary of

and rural feel thanks to grazing

Tiritiri Matangi, Waiheke with

cattle, Mt Victoria and North Head

its vineyards, historic ruins and

with their old gun emplacements

stunning white-sand beaches, the

and eerie underground tunnels

isolated Great Barrier Island with

– don’t forget your torch, and

its rugged beauty and the iconic

Mangere Mountain – the area’s

peak of Rangitoto Island that

best preserved volcanic cone.

dominates the Auckland landscape.

If you’re wondering where to find a walk with incredible views

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LEFT: Rangitoto Island coastal walk RIGHT: Shopping, Queen St Both © ATEED / Todd Eyre Photography

Pakiri

1

Leigh

Wellsford

1

1

Kawau Island

Pūhoi

16

1 Waiwera Ōrewa

Whangaparāoa Peninsula

Helensville Woodhill Forest

Waitakere

Bethells Beach Piha

2

NORTH SHORE COASTAL WALK

3

AUCKLAND FORESHORE HERITAGE WALK

4

COAST TO COAST WALKWAY

5

RANGITOTO SUMMIT TRACK

Tiritiri Matangi Island

6

CHURCH BAY CIRCUIT

7

TE ATATŪ PENINSULA WALKWAY

8

HŪNUA FALLS LOOP TRACK

Albany

Riverhead Forest Riverhead

Muriwai

MT TAMAHUNGA WALKWAY

Hauraki Gulf

1 16

1

Matakana

Warkworth

Kaipara Harbour

WALKS

2

5

18

6

Rangitoto Island

7

Waiheke Island

3

Mount Albert New Lynn

4

AUCKLAND

Maraetai

Mount Wellington

Waitakere Regional Park

20

Manukau Clevedon

1 Manukau Harbour

Hūnua Ranges Regional Park

Papakura

8

22 1 Pukekohe

2

AUCKLAND HIGHLIGHTS • Calm bays and white-sand beaches on the east and wild surf pounding black-sand beaches on the west.

• From tranquil beaches and rugged clifftops to working farms and native wildlife, Auckland’s 26 regional parks have it all.

Great Barrier, Tiritiri Matangi and Rangitoto, each with their own unique charm.

• Explore the city’s three wine regions: Matakana, Kumeū and Waiheke Island.

• No visit to the city is complete without scaling at least one of its volcanoes.

• Indulge in retail therapy in the popular shopping precincts of Queen Street, K’ Road (Karangahape Road), Britomart, Newmarket, Parnell and Ponsonby.

• Auckland is alive with culinary flair, with plenty of diverse dining precincts and eateries for every budget and taste.

• Auckland is a veritable feast of heritage, visual arts and live performances. Check out museums, galleries and theatres.

• The sparkling blue Hauraki Gulf is home to many islands to visit, including Waiheke,

• Feel the thrill with an adventurous pursuit, from bungy jumping to ziplining.

One day in Auckland can offer a range of experiences – you could be taking a morning walk in the tūī-filled native bush, exploring the city streets on your way to lunch on a heritage tour and squeezing in a jaunt along the beach before dinner.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 23

AUCKLAND Matakana is an easy escape from Auckland City. Its pretty village has glamorous dining options, boutique cinemas, galleries and shops, but on Saturday mornings it’s all about the fantastic farmers’ market. Stalls sell everything from feijoa wine and locally made cheeses to organic veges, sweet treats and delicious hot meals. Other highlights in the area include Morris & James pottery which is crowded with bright glossy pots, the astonishing collection of sculptures at Sculptureum, the beautifully crafted gallery space at The Vivian and taking a wine-tasting tour at one of the numerous wineries nearby. © Matakana Farmers’ Market

MT TAMAHUNGA WALKWAY 1

A pleasant walk to the summit of Mt Tamahunga through farmland and regenerating native forest for expansive views.

Where is it?

Start at Omaha Valley Rd, Matakana, an hour north of Auckland.

Terrain Private farmland, tramping tracks, sometimes rocky and slippery. Significant mud after rain.

No dogs

3hr return Reasonable fitness Some steep sections

NORTH SHORE COASTAL WALK 2

Part of Te Araroa, this picturesque 23.5km section of that trail can be done in its entirety, from Long Bay to Devonport, or tackled in smaller, bite-sized chunks.

Where is it?

Start at the Devonport ferry building, or at Long Bay Regional Park.

Terrain Footpaths, easy tramping tracks and coastal sections. The tide will determine if you head further ashore at some points or continue along the shoreline.

TRACK OVERVIEW Follow the orange markers through farmland and, as you keep on trekking up a grassy incline, you’ll be welcomed by pines, palms and large pūriri trees. As you continue climbing you’ll encounter healthy groves of nīkau and kōwhai, with tūī flitting among the yellow flowers in springtime.

Pass the turn-off to the weather station and you’ll find a decent-sized flat section where you can gaze out upon the world, 437m above sea level. A helicopter pad and trig station mark the very peak. This is also the site of the historic Otamahua Pā where 200 Māori prisoners sheltered after escaping from nearby Kawau Island. Take time to read the interpretation panels along the way, with one a particularly detailed account of how stoats came to New Zealand.

There’s just something about being beside the seaside at Devonport. Linger awhile and take in art galleries, excellent cafés, the chocolatier serving handmade sweet treats, and the elegant Victorian architecture including the Victorian cinema playing a selection of films.

Takapuna is a stylish beachside suburb with fantastic shopping and funky restaurants and bars.

Not to mention, of course, its beautiful bustling beach.

Approximately 7hr; 23.5km one way Reasonable fitness required. Good shoes are crucial.

Footpaths, easy tramping tracks & coastal sections Dogs are allowed

TRACK OVERVIEW This is a wonderful way to get to grips with the beauty of Auckland’s North Shore without having to penetrate the commercial hubs (although you will find numerous excellent cafés along the way). Departing from elegant Devonport, follow the foreshore before heading up over the crest of North Head towards Cheltenham Beach and Narrow Neck, undulating as you go. With Rangitoto Island constantly on the horizon, continue along the coast past Takapuna and towards Milford and Castor Bay. At low tide you’ll have rock pools to explore as well as a good selection of interpretation panels and relics from World War Two, gun emplacements, tunnels and sites of significance including Rahopara Historic Reserve at Castor Bay. Rothesay Bay is popular for lunch with several tasty options; from there press on past Browns Bay, Waiake and Torbay before arriving at Long Bay where a swim, if you walk in warmer weather, will be welcome.

© Photographer

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS • The long, white-sand beaches at Omaha and Pakiri • The pristine beauty of the beach-lined Tāwharanui Regional Park • Explore the Goat Island Marine Reserve by diving or snorkelling among the colourful marine life, paddling a kayak or riding the glass-bottom boat

1643 State Highway 1

• 11 quality, modern, ground-level s/c units • Central to town & golf club • Private hot spa pool and sauna • Complimentary wireless internet • Tourist info & maps available • Tariff: Single $105; Double $115-$155

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FREEPHONE :

0800 004 718

www.castlecourtmotel.co.nz

Goat Island © AATP

• Pūhoi’s Bohemian Museum and popular historic pub

AUCKLAND FORESHORE HERITAGE WALK 3

With everything from sandy beaches and rocky bays to modern city wharves and historic commercial zones, this walk reveals how the coast in the city has transformed over the years.

Where is it?

Approximately 3hr one-way, from west to east; 5km Average fitness required

Start at Pt Erin Pools, not far from the Auckland Harbour Bridge on the city side, and end at Parnell Baths in Judges Bay.

Steep parts at either end

Terrain

Dogs on leashes welcome

Auckland Ferry Building © Chris McLennan / ATEED

TRACK OVERVIEW Featuring ancient pā sites, old shipyards, modern suburban areas and beaches, this is an excellent walk to get to grips with Auckland’s interesting past. The walk goes through parks, past grand old homes and gardens in St Mary’s Bay, through land granted to Roman Catholic Bishop Pompallier in the 1850s, past heritage industrial buildings and into the merchant centre of early Auckland. Much of it follows the coastline under the shade of massive pōhutukawa trees, many of which will have witnessed the changes to the city scene over the decades.

This walk is one of the official Auckland City Heritage Walks. Download a PDF of the walk from the Auckland Council website; it is an informative and detailed guide.

Auckland Phoenix Palm

Mostly easy, flat and paved but with steep parts at either end.

• Affordable, spacious, self‑contained studio & family units.

• All ground‑floor units, quiet street with easy motorway access, wireless internet.

• Close to Ascot Hospital, Ellerslie Racecourse & Convention Centre, close to Newmarket & city.

Tariff: 1-bedroom from $159 (1 night), studio from $139 (1 night), kids under 12 year $15, extra person $20.

79 St Vincent Ave, Remuera, Auckland • Ph: +64 9 523 3388

RESERVATIONS ONLY: 0800 121 333

Email: phoenixpalm@xtra.co.nz www.aucklandphoenixpalmmotel.co.nz

QUOTE AA2020 WHEN BOOKING TO RECEIVE A SPECIAL OFFER

Quality budget

accommodation

The perfect place to stay for walkers of all ages.

www.yha.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO’S 25

AUCKLAND TRACK OVERVIEW

COAST TO COAST WALKWAY 4

One Tree Hill © Chris Gin

Sixteen kilometres of urban walking. Start downtown at Princes Wharf and, as the name suggests, march all the way to the other side of the narrow Auckland isthmus to arrive in Ōnehunga on the Manukau Harbour.

Where is it?

Waitematā to Manukau, Central Auckland to South Auckland. Start at Auckland’s Britomart Train Station or walk the other way by starting in Ōnehunga.

Terrain City streets, parks and bush tracks.

26

Britomart is a waterfront precinct made up of heritage buildings and vibrant outdoor spaces.

Within its compact block of cobbled laneways are a collection of cafés, restaurants and flagship designer stores by day, and the bars and clubs of one of the city’s most popular nightlife destinations by night. Another of the walkway’s highlights, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is home to a vast array of taonga (treasures) and intriguing exhibitions.

Part of Te Araroa, the walkway that travels the length of New Zealand, this is a great way to get a sense of Auckland City’s heart. Winding its way through pretty suburbs and city parks, you’ll also ascend several of Auckland’s famous volcanic peaks including Maungawhau Mt Eden and Maungakiekie One Tree Hill, where the views are magnificent.

Other highlights include the 200acre Auckland Domain and Albert Park beside the university. Discover Auckland’s history and geology while rubbing shoulders with the locals, but do take some provisions as there are portions of the route that aren’t well served with places to eat and drink. Wherever you finish, you’re close to trains and transport to make your way to wherever you need to be next.

5hr; 16km Reasonable fitness required

RANGITOTO SUMMIT TRACK 5

Lava fields. Rangitoto Summit © Todd Eyre / ATEED

Emerging from the sea approximately 600 years ago in a series of fiery volcanic explosions, pest-free Rangitoto Island is the youngest volcano in New Zealand.

Where is it?

Take a 25min ferry ride from Queens Wharf in Auckland City.

Terrain Moderate fitness is required for the gradual and steady incline to the top. Good footwear is advised if you’ll be exploring the lava fields, as some areas can be uneven.

TRACK OVERVIEW

Other Tracks…

This is an easy climb through pōhutukawa forest and lava fields to

Lava Caves Track

a peak 260m above sea level. When you reach the summit of this

15min one-way from Summit Track; 1hr one-way from Rangitoto Wharf; 1hr 45min one-way from Rangitoto Wharf to lava caves to summit.

volcanic island, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. You’ll walk on well-formed paths through lava fields that support over 200 species of moss, plants and trees including the largest pōhutukawa forest in the world, which provides a home for dozens of shore, sea and forest birds. After Rangitoto was declared pest-free in 2011, forest and other native birds have flocked back to the island and their birdsong will accompany you as you explore this special place.

Wilson Park Track 1hr 45min from Rangitoto Wharf; 45min from Summit Track turn-off to summit.

2hr return; 7km return, via same track Moderate fitness required Moderately steep No dogs

Whale and dolphin watching direct from Auckland city.

Main entrance Greenlane West,Auckland www.cornwallpark.co.nz Ph:09 630 8485 Discover Today Protect for Tomorrow

Save

20%*

Use discount code

AAWALK19

When booking *Adult or Child online

Experience the diverse wildlife and stunning scenery of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf. See whales, dolphins and seabirds while learning from experts on board working to protect these precious creatures and their fragile home. Every passenger contributes to these important conservation efforts, just by coming on board.

fares only

Cornwall Park is a breath of the countryside in the heart of Auckland, and is your park to explore and discover today.

Come enjoy its nature, and walk or run its many paths, open lawns and paddocks before relaxing under your favourite tree. It’s been part of Auckland’s landscape since 1903 after it was gifted to new Zealanders by Sir John Logan Campbell and put into a trust that looks after it for you – and the generations to come.

Start your eco-adventure at

whalewatchingauckland.com WALKING MUST-DO’S 27

AUCKLAND An easy breezy introduction to

6

CHURCH BAY CIRCUIT

the charms of Waiheke Island, conveniently starting at Matiatia Wharf.

Where is it?

Waiheke Island, Hauraki Gulf.

Terrain A range of coastal paths, footpaths and hills.

TRACK OVERVIEW Hop on the Waiheke Ferry in downtown Auckland and approximately 40 minutes later you’ll be far from the bustle of the city. Setting off from the wharf, look for the path that leads to the southern end of Matiatia Bay. Cross the footbridge and take the track along the coastal path headed towards Te Miro Bay. Press on towards Church Bay, hugging the coast, following the fence line until you reach Church Bay Rd, and then carry on to Alison Park which will in turn lead you to Oneroa Village and Oneroa Beach which is perfect for swimming. Complete the loop by returning via Ocean View Rd which will lead you back to Matiatia Wharf. Passing Atawhai Whenua Reserve as you go, if you have time, follow the track that

takes you to the wetlands. A very pleasant day trip, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy food and drink whether at Oneroa Village or the vineyards along the way.

3hr return; 8km Reasonable fitness required Steady and steep climb Dogs must be on a lead

Although Waiheke is only a 40-minute ferry ride from the city, be warned, once there you may not want to leave! Stunning beaches, renowned wineries, top-quality restaurants, olive groves, cafés, boutique shopping, galleries, walking trails and even some historic sites to explore – it’s easy to understand its popularity.

Cable Bay, Waiheke Island © ATEED

TE ATATU PENINSULA WALKWAY 7

This is a pleasant urban stroll. Do the full loop or drop in anywhere along the 6.2km loop to enjoy nature, views, fresh air, birdlife and playgrounds.

Where is it?

Te Atatū Peninsula, Orangihina Park, West Auckland.

Terrain Boardwalks, concrete paths, gravel.

Would suit sturdy strollers.

While you’re out west, take the time to explore. This spectacular region is bordered by surf beaches and a stunning wild coastline. There is plenty on offer, from fantastic wineries, lively cafés and some of the best surf in Auckland to secluded black-sand beaches perfect for a walk guaranteed to blow away the cobwebs. A highlight of the region is the gannet colony at Muriwai’s Otakamiro Point, accessible via an easy walk. This arty region also has a vibrant creative scene, evident at the region’s public art gallery Te Uru Waitākere Contemporary Gallery, and a plethora of fun family activities including Whoa! Studios – a film studio, puppet show, incredible playground, café and restaurant combined.

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TRACK OVERVIEW Following the eastern edge of the family-friendly suburb of Te Atatū Peninsula, enjoy spectacular views across the Waitematā Harbour to the North Shore, the Chelsea Sugar Factory, Auckland Harbour Bridge, and all the way to Rangitoto Island. Starting at Orangihina Park (or wherever suits you) follow the path along the waterfront where walkers with a fondness for birds will want to keep their eyes out for fernbirds, dotterels, oyster catchers, godwits, herons and all sorts of seagulls. Pretty and undemanding, this is a good walk for younger visitors who like to take things slowly, stopping at picnic tables, playgrounds, the pony club and toilets en route.

Native planting is flourishing here

and just a short way off the path you’ll find several excellent cafés where you can refuel. Cyclists are also welcome on much of the path, with the general philosophy ‘share with care’.

Dogs welcome on a leash

1-2hr; 6.2km Basic fitness required Easy walking

HUNUA FALLS LOOP TRACK

8

Located in Auckland’s largest area of native forest, the waterfall track is relatively easy walking, featuring beautiful vistas.

Where is it?

233 Falls Rd, Hūnua Ranges.

About 50km from downtown Auckland.

Good to know The park has three mountain bike trails, several other heartier walks and 10 camping grounds.

Need to know Swimming is not recommended at the falls.

© Chris McLennan / ATEED

TRACK OVERVIEW There’s something truly majestic about a thundering waterfall and the 30m Hūnua Falls is one of the most popular cascades in the greater Auckland region. Take the short track that follows the Wairoa River, walking through dense forest until you get to the lookout platform at the waterfall.

The Hūnua Ranges are also an excellent spot for bird watching; keep a look out for the kōkako as this is one of the few places in Auckland to see this rare bird.

Because this is an extensive kauri area, be sure to give your footwear a good scrub upon entering and exiting the area to help prevent the spread of kauri dieback.

20min; 800m Low level of fitness required Easy walking

No dogs

CLARKS BEACH

holiday park

www.clarksbeachholidaypark.co.nz

The south of Auckland is a cultural melting pot, an area where you’ll not only find ethnic feasts and attractions brimming with culture, but a whole host of things to see and do: fun family activities, gorgeous gardens and some breathtaking natural sights, from rolling, open countryside and vast, sweeping coastlines to ranges cloaked in native bush filled with lively birdlife.

www.clarksbeachholidaypark.co.nz A hidden gem only 40min from Auckland CBD and airport (depending on traffic). A beautiful spacious family camp on the shores of the Manukau Harbour with panoramic views of the adjacent golf course and beach. Ideally suited for leisurely holidaying and is a popular base for large groups.

Clarks Beach Holiday Park has plenty of things to do with a covered swimming pool, WIFI available, mini-golf and TV/ games room. There are also pedal carts and kayaks for hire.

Clarks Beach also happens to be a great fishing and scallop gathering spot.

226 Torkar Rd, Clarks Beach Phone: +64 9 232 1685 info@clarksbeachholidaypark.co.nz WALKING MUST-DO’S 29

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND

Walking Walkinginin TheAuckland Coromandel, Bay of Plenty & Eastland

Some of the most breathtaking sights in the country adorn the coastline of this fun-filled holiday-happy region, and there’s no better way to take it all in than on foot. Dazzling white-sand beaches, rugged ranges, deep gorges, tumbling waterfalls and majestic maunga – all this and more is here waiting to be walked.

T

he Coromandel is a

the ranges separating the two are

footsteps of the region’s hardy

and you’ll soon see why this is a

laidback peninsula high

clad with thick rainforest.

gold-mining pioneers.

must-do.

Barefoot beach strolls and

The epic coastline continues down

The vibe changes once you hit

coastal hikes are a given here, but

into the Bay of Plenty, a warm and

Eastland – slow down the pace and

venturing inland will also reward

sunny region with a huge arcing

slip into rural time.

you with some brilliant trails,

stretch of white sand and rolling

including rocky sky-high viewpoints

surf lining its eastern edge. As

and the chance to follow in the

expected there are plenty of trails

on the list of Kiwi holiday

hot spots, and for good reason.

Huge pōhutukawa trees line the western side of the peninsula, the eastern shores are fringes with gorgeous white-sand beaches and

taking advantage of the stunning coastal outlook, but there’s also a range of scenic walks scattered throughout the region that take in artworks, heritage sites, pretty

Zealand, where communities are strong and a love of the ocean is shared by all. Tractors on the beach, horse-back riding and fresh kaimoana for dinner – it’s all part of daily life here.

waterfalls, landscaped gardens and

Expect walks taking in the region’s

much more.

highlights: sensational surf

The trail heading up and around Mauao, the instantly recognisable mountain standing proudly above the resort town of Mt Maunganui, is one of the most walked tracks in New Zealand. Head for the summit

30

This is a real corner of New

beaches, a wine region producing excellent chardonnay, historically important sites and wild gorges.

TOP: Mt Maunganui beach © Getty Images LEFT: Rolling hills of Coromandel © Tourism New Zealand RIGHT: White Island © Denise Siviter

WALKS Port Jackson

1

Great Mercury Island

Waikawau Colville

Tuateawa Kennedy Bay Whangapoua

Amodeo Bay Waiheke Island

Coromandel Town

Whitianga

Coromandel Town

Hot Water Beach

FIRTH OF THAMES

25

3

Whakatete Bay

25 Waihi

4 2 Kaimāī-Mamaku Forest Park

5

TAURANGA

2

CATHEDRAL COVE WALK

3

KAUAERANGA KAURI TRAIL (PINNACLES WALK)

4

KARANGAHAKE GORGE HISTORIC WALKWAY

5

MT MAUNGANUI (MAUAO) SUMMIT WALK

6

NGĀ TAPUWAE O TOI WALKWAY

7

COOKS COVE WALKWAY

Tairua Pāuanui Hikuai

25a

Thames

Waihi Beach

COROMANDEL COASTAL WALKWAY

25

Whangamata

26

26

2

Tapu

Thames

27

Ferry Landing Hahei

Coromandel Forest Park

FIRTH OF THAMES

25

2

Whitianga

Chamberlins Island

Coromandel Forest Park

1

Port Charles

Hicks Bay

White Island

Mt Maunganui

Waihau Bay

27 HAMILTON Cambridge

29

2

36

1

3

Tirau

33

5

35

Whakatāne

30 ROTORUA

BAY OF PLENTY

6

Ruatoria

Raukumara Forest Park

Ōpotiki Te Puia Springs

2

Tokomaru Bay

2

30

Matawai

1

30 4

Pureora Forest Park / Timber Trail

Tolaga Bay

7

5 Te Urewera

32 TAUPŌ

38

35 GISBORNE

COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND HIGHLIGHTS • The hidden paradise of New Chums Beach

• Ōhope Beach’s pristine long stretch of sand

• Cathedral Cove’s remarkable rock formations

• White Island: accessible, active marine volcano

• Karangahake Gorge’s history on show

• Explore Tauranga City’s eateries and galleries

• Driving Creek’s train ride and zipline

• The Pacific Coast Highway around East Cape

• Dig a sandy hot pool at Hot Water Beach

• Tolaga Bay wharf – the longest in the country

• Boat cruises from Whitianga

• Tairāwhiti Museum, Gisborne

• The Lost Spring geothermal resort, Whitianga

• The Rere Rockslide – take a boogie board!

• The Gold Discovery Centre, Waihi

• Eastwoodhill Arboretum, national arboretum

• The beautiful resort town of Mt Maunganui

• A wine tour of Gisborne’s famed wineries

Barefoot beach strolls and coastal hikes are a given here, but venturing inland will also reward you with some brilliant trails.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 31

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND Stride 10km of glorious coast and bush tracks across the northern end of the Coromandel Peninsula.

COROMANDEL COASTAL WALKWAY 1

Where is it?

Start at Stony Bay, about an hour from Colville township, heading towards Fletcher Bay.

Terrain Coastal bush paths with some steep sections.

Good to know If you want to make it an overnight adventure, there are DOC campgrounds at Stony and Fletcher bays; if you don’t wish to carry a tent, there’s a backpackers at Fletcher Bay. Many rental car firms don’t insure beyond Colville, but there are several shuttle services and tour operators who can assist you on this walk.

No dogs

3.5hr; 10km one way Reasonable fitness required

Northern coast of The Coromandel © Destination Coromandel

OTAUTU BAY FARM CAMP ON THE POHUTUKAWA COAST

BOOK

DIRECT FOR BEST PRICES

A warm welcome awaits you after your inspiring Coromandel walk experience. Take a soak in the private outdoor Hot Tub (Spa) then relax in the peaceful garden setting. We offer Studio & 2-bedroom units at reasonable rates all with well-equipped kitchens.

Other features include 50+Sky TV Channels – Free WiFi – Air-con/Heat Pump – BBQ area – Fish filleting area and plenty of off-street parking for boats, buses and trucks.

• A family friendly camp at beautiful Otautu Bay bordered by a working farm on the northern picturesque Coromandel Peninsula.

• Beautiful sandy beach, great fishing, safe swimming, ideal for walking or relaxing • Power & tent sites • Unit & lodge • Laundry, hot showers, toilets, freezer, bait & ice • Tariff: camping $16 per adult per night, children (5-14 yrs incl) $8 per night per child. $8 per night extra for power. Units & lodge seasonal rates apply Prices subject to change.

Port Jackson Port Charles

The quiet and peaceful location makes it a popular place to stay.

The shops, cafés and restaurants are only a short stroll away.

Quality accommodation with Certificates of Excellence and great reviews.

Our unique style of hospitality has turned many of our guests into regular guests.

We look forward to being your hosts! Dave & Janeen

365 Kapanga Rd, Coromandel Town • Ph: +64 7 866 8402 Email: corocourt@xtra.co.nz • www.coromandelcourtmotel.co.nz

32

Otautu Bay Farm Camp

Little Bay Colville

Coromandel

www.otautubaycamp.co.nz

OTAUTU BAY FARM CAMP 257 Port Jackson Rd, Colville Ph/Fax: +64 7 866 6801 Email: otautubaycamp@xtra.co.nz

North of Colville © Destination Coromandel

TRACK OVERVIEW From the moment you start driving these narrow coastal roads along pōhutukawa-fringed bays, you’re deep into some spectacular scenery. This walk offers all manner of delights from regenerating native forest, dense bush, farmland and rocky coastlines. The views across the sweeping ocean go all the way to Aotea, Great Barrier Island to the north, to Cuvier Island out to the east and all the way up to Mt Moehau at the tip of the peninsula. The gradient of the lovingly tended paths is mostly gentle but be prepared for a few steep sections, notably on the way to Poley Bay. Fantail Bay and Port Jackson with its pretty sandy beach are essential photo op stops, although the numerous wee coves are all very beautiful. Arguably one of the most beautiful short walks in New Zealand.

This is kiwi country. If you stay a night, you’ll almost certainly hear kiwi and possibly even see some.

425 Driving Creek Rd, Coromandel P: +64 7 866 7771 Located in the picturesque historic town of Coromandel Town, our accommodation consists of 5 simple yet stylish cabins all nestled amongst beautiful New Zealand bush. Private and cosy cabins with piping hot showers, crisp linen, fluffy white towels, free WiFi, TV and free parking. Cook up a storm in the alfresco kitchen/dining area. Near bush walks, beaches, local attractions, good cafés & restaurants and the Driving Creek Railway & Pottery garden is across the road. Stay with us and we will help you plan your trek.

E: hello@hushaccommodation.co.nz • www.hushaccommodation.co.nz

Wharf Rd, Colville, Coromandel P/F: +64 7 866 6814 E: colvillemotel@colville.org.nz

www.colvillebaymotel.co.nz

• 26km N of Coromandel Town, on inlet of Colville Bay. • Beaches within 6km. 5 self-contained units, serviced daily.

• Fish cleaning & freezer.

Tariff: $95-$130 (2 persons). Extra person $15

no noise, no stress, no worries • Spectacular views and harbour‑front location • Great venue for weddings and conferences • Surrounded by a farm • Cabins available, ideal for fishing groups or backpackers • Free kayaks, swimming pool, BBQ, games room, nature walks, fishing etc • Tariff: from $30-$250 a night. Seasonal rates apply 7 fully self‑contained cottages $110‑$150. Bunkroom for larger groups sleeps 23, POA. Backpacker Cabins from $30pp. Camp sites from $15.

Te Kouma Harbour Cottages 2‑bedroom log house with private swimming pool $250 (2 persons).

SH 25, Coromandel Ph/Fax: +64 7 866 8747 Email: tekouma@xtra.co.nz www.tekoumacottages.co.nz Reservations: 0800 777 027 Hosts: John & Rose Deane & Family

WALKING MUST-DO’S 33

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND 2

TRACK OVERVIEW

CATHEDRAL COVE WALK

Cathedral Cove Arch © Destination Coromandel

A stunning coastal walk in The Coromandel, featuring some of New Zealand’s finest scenery.

Fun Fact Macklemore filmed one of his music videos here and, in the movie version of The Chronicles of Narnia; Prince Caspian, the Pevensie children re-entered Narnia by using the cave and beach as their portal.

Where is it?

Grange Rd, 2km from Hahei or 35km from Whitianga.

Terrain Coastal paths, handrails in places, steep at times.

Because this track is largely all downhill as it heads to the coast, getting there is easier than returning but it is worth making the effort. After about 10 minutes walking, look for a sign that points to Gemstone Bay; there you’ll find a popular snorkel trail with information panels on buoys that tell you more about what you’re seeing in the water. If snorkelling isn’t on your agenda, keep walking for a further 20 minutes to a sign pointing to Stingray Bay; follow that direction to enjoy the clear waters and stingrays or keep on walking directly to Cathedral Cove, said by many to be one of the most beautiful beaches in The Coromandel. Gaze at the view through the famous rock archway Te Hoho Rock, one of the most photographed outlooks in New Zealand. Be sure to wear sensible shoes, and take sunscreen, drinking water and your swimsuit.

Good to know Car parking here can be difficult in the height of summer.

90min return; 2.5km Average fitness required

No dogs

Mercury Bay Holiday Park

Welcome to our place.

Make yourself at home.

• The family-friendly park is 400m from the town centre and 600m from the beach.

Traveller Spirit of Hospitality

WINNER

CO

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ALB

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• Accommodation for all budgets, self-contained units CAM & cabins, spacious campsites for PBEL TUD L ST OR G R BRY tents, caravans and campervans.

CE S T • Kitchen, laundry, BBQs, playground, pool, TV room.

IDEAL FOR FAMILIES

ST

• Tariff: (2 persons) $40-$185.

121 Albert St, Whitianga • P: +64 7 866 5579 E: info@mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz

www.mercurybayholidaypark.co.nz 34

Harbourside H O L I DAY PA R K

• Family park with mature trees opposite estuary beach • Walk to shops, cafés and restaurants • Swimming pool, kayak hire, playground, WiFi, BBQs, indoor dining, kitchen, laundry, TV room, and dump station • Large sites ideal for campervans, caravans and tents, and cabins and self-contained units Tariff: (2 persons) $40-$185

135 Albert St, Whitianga • Ph: +64 7 869 5152 • FOR BEST PRICES BOOK DIRECT www.harboursideholidaypark.co.nz • Email: harboursideholidaypark@gmail.com

COROMANDEL HIGHLIGHTS WHITIANGA

TOP PICKS

This popular family holiday destination welcomes you with sparkling beaches, deep harbours and plenty of water-based activities, from diving, banana boat rides and kayaking to scenic cruises and fishing charters. On dry land, the town centre is a relaxed haven with plenty to do and a fantastic range of restaurants and cafés.

For a tropical island experience, Coromandel-style, head to The Lost Spring and relax in a man-made lagoon before indulging in a luxurious spa treatment.

You can also take a short ferry ride from Whitianga to Ferry Landing and walk to the stunning Cooks Beach via Front Bay and Flaxmill Bay (40 minutes each way).

Whitianga © Destination Coromandel

HOT WATER BEACH Hot Water Beach is one of New Zealand’s most popular natural wonders. For two hours either side of low tide, dig a hole and watch as water from natural hot springs seeps up into it through sparkling sands into your very own sandy spa. The view from your improvised hot tub is pretty gratifying too.

Take a spade, or hire one from the beachside shop.

Tempting as it will be to rush into the surf after a hot soak, be aware that Hot Water Beach has dangerous rips – it’s best to swim between the flags when lifeguards are on duty.

With a cathedral of pōhutukawa and nīkau and a golden stretch of dazzling beach with clean, clear water lapping at its shore, New Chums Beach is idyllic. Part of its charm is its seclusion – it takes a little bit of effort to get there in the form of a scramble around the rocks and over the headland from Whangapoua Beach.

New Chums Beach Hot Water Beach © Destination Coromandel

New Chums Beach © Destination Coromandel

We service the Coromandel Peninsula and beyond and pride ourselves in being the PENINSULA’S ONLY PADI 5-STAR RATED DIVE STORE

DIVE...

OPEN 7 DAYS

• Charters • Extensive Retail • PADI Training • Hire • Tank Testing • Gear Servicing • Advice • First Aid Training

8am to 5pm Mon to Thurs 8am to 6m Fri & Sat

10 Campbell Street Ph: +64 7 867 1580

www.divezonewhitianga.co.nz

G E O -T H E R M A L P O O L S , D AY S P A & D I N I N G

Escape to The Lost Spring

Escape to The Lost Spring

W H ITIANGA’S G EO –TH E R MAL OAS I S

PENINSULA

MOTEL

WiFi & Flatscreen TVs

• 14 ground-floor units: 4 x 1-bedroom, 2 x-2 bedroom, 3 x deluxe with spa baths, 5 x new studio units (no spa bath) – 2 with wheelchair access • Boat parking.

• Can assist in booking any activity you would like to go on.

• Close to activity departures.

• 2min walk to town, restaurants & cafés.

• Kiwi owned and operated – for a real Kiwi experience • Tariff: (2p) $125-$175.

Reservations:

0508 887 755

93-97 Albert St, Whitianga Ph: +64 7 866 5607 • info@peninsulamotel.co.nz www.peninsulamotel.co.nz

Geo-Thermal Pools W H ITIANGA’S G EO –TH E R MAL OAS I S

Day Spa Pools Geo-Thermal Cocktails, Poolside

Day Spa & Restaurant Dining Cocktails, Poolside

Restaurant 121A Cook Drive, Whitianga 3510, +64 Dining (07) 866& 0456 The Coromandel Peninsula, www.thelostspring.co.nz New Zealand +64 (07) 866 0456 www.thelostspring.co.nz

121A Cook Drive, Whitianga 3510, The Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

Supervised children 14 years & over welcome Supervised children 14 years & over welcome

WALKING MUST-DO’S 35

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND

KAUAERANGA KAURI TRAIL (PINNACLES WALK) 3

Beautiful sweeping views, fascinating history and extraordinary native forest,

Where is it?

In the Kauaeranga Valley, 13km east of Thames.

Terrain Bush tracks, rock steps, swing bridges, ladders.

Good to know The Kauaeranga Visitor Centre is an excellent place to find information on track conditions, watch an audio visual display and visit the built-to-scale model of a kauri dam.

No dogs

8hr; 1 day or 3hr to hut & 2hr return to the Pinnacles; 2 days Good fitness level required Challenging walk

Come and share our slice of paradise

TRACK OVERVIEW From the 1870s to the 1920s, this peaceful forest echoed with the sound of intense milling, as regal kauri giants were felled for the growing nation. Today visitors can follow the old packhorse tracks that took supplies to the loggers.

Walking through bush canopy and regenerating forest, hikers will see giant stumps, remnants from impressive kauri dams and tramlines, while the views from the towering Pinnacles (759m) are the highlight of the trail.

You will need to put in some serious effort but the reward will be stunning views across The Coromandel and out to the east coast. Choose between walking there and back on the Webb Creek Track (6-8hr return) or take the Billy Goat Track (8-10hr) and make a loop. This ruggedly spectacular walk is one of the country’s most popular overnight adventures.

Sunset at The Pinnacles © Destination Coromandel

Brookby Motel 102 Redwood Lane, Thames Ph: 07 868 6663 Email: brookbymotel@xtra.co.nz

www.brookbymotel.co.nz - Peaceful location, off main road - Short walk to central Thames - 4 x 1‑brm units with full kitchen. 1 studio with microwave & tea/coffee‑making facilities - King, queen & single beds - Closest motel to Thames Hospital - 24-hr Security cameras - WiFi available from all units - Smokefree - Tariff: $100-$150 (2 persons).

Seasonal rates

BOWENTOWN BEACH HOLIDAY PARK & MOTELS

Goldfields Shopping Mall

we are here

Location • Location • Location

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT

Tuscany on Thames

• 2-bedroom Ocean View Park Motel • Sky TV in motels and camp TV room

• Motels to standard cabins • Prime sea view sites • Fun bike and bike hire • Internet kiosk and wireless • Large private 8-seater spa pool • Free BBQ area • Camp security

10% OFF YOUR STAY WITH TRAVEL REWARDS

Studio, 1 & 2-bedroom units. All units have hush glass, heat pumps/air-con, cooking facilities, dbl spa baths (except 2 access units), free high-speed fibre WiFi, 50+ SKY. Pool, free parking, guest laundry and bike storage. Being environmentally friendly is very important to us.

Tariff: $162-$222 (2 persons)

RESERVATIONS 0800 143 769

200 Jellicoe Cres, SH 25, Thames • P: +64 7 868 5099 • Reservations: 0800 559 560 E: tuscanyonthames@xtra.co.nz • www.tuscanyonthames.co.nz

www.bowentown.co.nz www.waihibeachmotels.co.nz

36

Travel Rewards Member no.

Name Expiry View your membership

654321 Here Long Name 01-01-16 discounts at www.fprewar

ds.com

Conditions apply

510 Seaforth Road, (PO Box 6) Waihi Beach, 3642 Ph/Fax: +64 7 863 5381 Email: info@bowentown.co.nz

familyparks.co.nz

4

KARANGAHAKE GORGE HISTORIC WALKWAY Windows Walk © Destination Coromandel

TRACK OVERVIEW

Where is it?

Set between the old gold-mining towns of Waihi and Paeroa, between the Coromandel and Kaimai Ranges.

Terrain Rocky paths, bush tracks, riversides, old rail corridors.

Take care The Hauraki Rail Trail cycleway shares some of these paths, so keep your eyes and ears out for bikes. And take a torch for the tunnels.

30min wander or a 4hr loop Walk to suit every fitness level

• Newly refurbished • Comfortable, quiet, double-glazed windows and closest motel to town centre • Secure lock-up for bicycles • Wireless internet in each unit • FREE WiFi • Fully air-conditioned units • Walking distance to restaurants, cafés and shops Tariff: from $110

www.waihimotel.co.nz 2 Tauranga Rd, SH 2, Waihi Ph: +64 7 863 8095 Email: info@waihimotel.co.nz

Martha Mine

a To gakak Karan Town Centre

INCLUDING SPORTS & MOVIES

To Whangamata

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Dogs on a lead permitted

EXPERIENCE WAIHI GOLD DISCOVERY CENTRE & VISIT KARANGAHAKE GORGE

Ro

Cross the swing bridge and then start exploring the trails. At 2.5km, the Rail Tunnel Loop is 90min of easy walking, starting at the Ohinemuri River and passing through native bush with two notable man-made marvels, the Crown Battery Site stamper, built in 1892 for crushing quartz, and an 1100m tunnel. The Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway is 7km, 4hr return, another easy walk that also follows the river with old gold-mining relics providing an archaeological atmosphere.

This walkway includes three bridges, a waterfall, smooth river rocks and many swimming spots. The Windows Walk is 2km return with secret tunnels and those eponymous windows cut through rock to look out to the river. You’ll find numerous information panels which really help bring history to life.

Choose between short strolls, or a four-hour walk through this stunning, historic gorge.

St

Waihi Motel To Tauranga

123 Parry Palm Ave Waihi +64 7 863 8461 info@palmmotelwaihi.co.nz

www.palmmotelwaihi.co.nz

• Studios, Kitchen Studios & Family Units • Swimming pool & Spa pool • Spacious Garden • Sky TV • 1km to town • Secure bike storage

T

he Hauraki Rail Trail is one of the easiest trails in the country to cycle, with the 160km track made up of 5 sections. This allows for a range of scenic day rides to comfortable 3 to 4 day tour rides.

Kaiaua

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300 metres to trail

Thames

A B

Sapphire Springs Holiday Park & Thermal Pools Family-owned holiday park. 32ha native bush haven with stream. Choice of motel units, camp sites, bungalow, lodge and cabins.

Motorhomes welcome.

Features: Warm thermal pools and hot tubs, playground, BBQs, camp store and more. 5km from Katikati at foot of Kaimai Ranges. Come for the day and play, or stay for a relaxing holiday.

Tariff: Camping from $20. Lodge/cabins from $60. Motels from $130 (2 persons). Bungalow from $360 (12 persons). Check website for day rates.

274 Hot Springs Rd, RD 2, Katikati Ph: +64 7 549 0768 Email: info@sapphiresprings.nz www.sapphiresprings.nz

Katikati

Sapphire Springs

Pacifica Golf

To Tauranga

Waihi

Paeroa

C D

Te Aroha

E

Matamata

For up-to-date track information and things to see & do visit:

www.haurakirailtrail.co.nz WALKING MUST-DO’S 37

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND This perennial favourite is a short yet hearty hike to the 232m summit.

Where is it?

Start at the Mt Maunganui Surf Life Saving Club at the base of the mountain in the Bay of Plenty.

Terrain Well-maintained bush paths, some shingle and quite a few steps if you choose the steeper, quicker Waikorire track.

MT MAUNGANUI (MAUAO) SUMMIT WALK

5

Mauao walk © Katie Cox

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW No trip to Mt Maunganui is complete without a walk to this summit. Two of the most popular tracks are Oruahine and Waikorire and both begin at the base of the mountain on the ocean side, starting at the boardwalk just beyond the

Surf Life Saving Club. Māori for ‘big mountain’, the walk up Maunganui, or Mauao, is challenging, but the views when you reach the peak make every drop of sweat worthwhile.

Catch your breath while gazing out upon the entire western Bay of

Atlas Suites & Apartments

0800 555 353

Contemporary-styled, self-contained, fully equipped apartments. Spacious 1, 2 and 3-bedroom with wheelchair access and elevator.

Free WiFi • free parking • SKY 50+ channels • smokefree complex Only 300m from beaches, harbour, Mt Drury, playground, shops, restaurants, cafés, Mt Maunganui and thermally heated pools.

Plenty, south along the white sandy beaches of Papamoa, north toward the shores of Waihi and Bowentown and over to the port and Matakana Island. You can walk these trails any time of day, although sunrise and sunset are most popular. Māori also

Beneath the mountain, the resort-like town of Mt Maunganui is a holiday hot spot. A bustling strip of beachside cafés and restaurants overlooks the golden beach, while in the town centre boutique shops, galleries, gift shops and fashion stores sit amongst 60 cafés, bars and fine-dining restaurants.

know the mountain as Mauao which means ‘caught by the dawn’. And if you feel like you’ve earned a reward, once you return to sea level, why not treat yourself to an ice cream, a soak in the hot pools, or if the season suits, a swim in the surf?

40min to reach 232m peak

Reasonable fitness required

Long, steep walk

6 Adams Ave, Mt Maunganui T: 07 575 3805 Email: calais@xtra.co.nz Perfectly located at the foot of Mt Maunganui. 25 self-contained & serviced apartments. In-house restaurant & bar – Mount Bistro.

Close to cafés, shops & beach. Sky TV, DVD. Secure underground parking. Tariff: from $120. Seasonal rates may apply.

Check out our monthly website specials

Tariff: $140-$450. Seasonal rates apply. Corporate and long-term rates available.

49 Maunganui Rd, Mt Maunganui P: +64 7 575 5802 F: +64 7 575 5801 E: atlasapartments@xtra.co.nz

www.atlasatthemount.co.nz

38

www.calais.co.nz • Reservations: 0800 422 524

TOP PICKS

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS Trinity Wharf, Tauranga © Bay of Plenty

TAURANGA

The perfect blend of city and laidback lifestyle, Tauranga is the largest city in the Bay of Plenty. Its sparkling harbour, warm sunny climate and abundance of activities make it a great year-round destination. It has an eclectic mix of excellent restaurants and cafés as well as museums, galleries, heritage sites and pretty parks and gardens. Stroll around the harbour for a glimpse of over a thousand yachts and launches, or perhaps jump on board a charter boat and head out to the internationally renowned deep-sea fishing waters. There are also opportunities to go diving, surfing and kayaking, including a glowworm kayaking trip on Lake McLaren.

Riding the waves © Tourism Bay of Plenty

MT MAUNGANUI With its surf vibe and relaxed feel, Mt Maunganui has a holiday atmosphere. At the southern end of Tauranga Harbour, it sits on a peninsula with ocean surf at Main Beach on one side and lovely sheltered Pilot Bay, ideal for swimming, on the other. ‘The Mount’, stands proudly above the seaside resort town.

Reward yourself by luxuriating in the geothermal saltwater hot pools at its base. For other great views and picnic spots, try the Otūmoetai foreshore walk, and be sure to visit the Classic Flyers Aviation Museum and enjoy a flight in a World War II biplane.

www.oceanwaves.co.nz

Mt Maunganui © Katie Cox

74 Marine Pde, Mt Maunganui Ph/Fax: +64 7 575 4594

74 Marine Parade

Situated at the base of the mountain (Mauao) on both ocean & harbour beaches, next to boat ramp, cafés & the hot salt-water pools. Popular family park.

Ideal for schools & groups.

BOOK DIRECT! • Beachfront on Marine Parade For Best Price, • Walking distance to CBD & hot pools Beachfront Motel • Choice of motel units Mount Maunganui • Self-contained accommodation • Units with superb ocean & island views • Free WiFi • Heat pumps/air-conditioning in all units • Short walk to cafés & Mount summit walk

• Across from safe-swimming harbour beach • Walking distance to hot pools, main surf beach, shops, cafés etc

MOU

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POO

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MARINE PARADE MAUN GANUI RD TH

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ONS AV E GRACE AVE

• 7 ground-floor units, 2 upstairs with harbour views.

Full kitchen, sep toilet & bathroom. TV, DVD, WiFi. Pets by arrangement

COMM

• Comfortable spacious units with parking

AVE

WESTHAVEN MOTEL 27a The Mall, Pilot Bay, Mount Maunganui

S:TXZ6

ADAMS

RESERVATIONS: 0800 743 019

Sites from $40, cabins from $85 (1-2 persons).

Seasonal rates apply.

• Tariff: $130-$210 (2 persons).

Seasonal rates

ES:T[6 P: +64 7 575 4753 | E: info@westhavenmotel.co.nz | www.westhavenmotel.co.nz

1 Adams Ave (at the base of the Mount), MOUNT MAUNGANUI Ph: 07 575 4471 • Fax: 07 575 4476 • Email: info@mountbeachside.co.nz

RESERVATIONS: 0800 682 3224 • www.mountbeachside.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO’S 39

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND

NGA TAPUWAE O TOI WALKWAY 6

An exceptional walkway with impressive views, history, forest, birdlife and coastal scenery.

TRACK OVERVIEW

Where is it?

Walk from Whakatāne to Ōhope, starting at Rex Morpeth Park on Goulstone Rd, Whakatāne.

Terrain There is quite of a bit of climbing, including some sections of steps, but the tracks are well formed, well maintained and well marked.

If you do the entire walk you will need stamina, although you can do smaller portions.

No dogs, this is kiwi country

6-7hr; 16km coastal loop

Awakeri

Cruising along the beach for a spell, your next track to look for is the Fairbrother Loop then keep looking for the markers that will take you back to Whakatāne.

During this section there is some impressive forest, as well as some quite demanding climbing.

Once this region was the domain of the great chief Toi, when his empire was centred around Kapu-Te-Rangi, Pā of Gentle Breezes. This is one of the oldest pā sites in the country, and it was well chosen as the views make it ideal for defending.

Strong fitness required

Whakatane walks © Whakatane District Council

Starting in Whakatāne, walk along urban paths for the first kilometre before turning onto Kohi Point Track where the uphill starts. At the top take a short detour to Kapu Te Rangi, and look out where you can see Whakaari (White Island) Putauaki (Mt Edgecumbe) and Mt Tarawera, then continue on down towards Ōhope Beach via Otarawairere Beach. This is much easier at low tide.

Climbing with steps

Ohope Beach Resort

HOT SPRINGS

• Penthouse & 2-brm self-serviced luxury apartments with stunning ocean and harbour views • 3 pools, spa pools, sauna, gymnasium, games room and tennis court.

Underground car parking, internet access. Sky TV.

Relax in Comfort

The perfect place to explore the Bay of Plenty

Tariff: $225-$445 (2p) extra person $25 307 Harbour Rd, Ohope P: +64 7 312 4120 E: info@ohopebeachresort.co.nz

www.ohopebeachresort.co.nz

• Spacious play area & bushwalks • Set in established bush setting • Park Motel, tourist flats, cabins, power & tent sites • 16km to Whakatane • Hot Thermal Pools – Free for Guests Tariff: (2 persons) $40-$120, seasonal rates apply

SH 30, RD 2, Whakatane Ph +64 7 304 9117 www.awakerisprings.co.nz 40

Opotiki Holiday Park Accommodation: Relax in a rural setting only 200m walk to Opotiki town centre. Start of the Motu Trail on our doorstep, or we can arrange shuttle services. Secure lock-up for bikes and group rates available. Choice of self-contained units, kitchen cabins, tent sites & motel units.

Res: 0800 464 673

39 Potts Ave, Opotiki Phone: +64 7 315 6050 Email: opotiki.holidays @xtra.co.nz

Features: Communal kitchen, metered showers, laundry, TV lounge, Freeview TV, Zenbu WiFi, swimming pool, playground and dump station.

Tariff: 2 persons $50-$120, sites from $20, seasonal rates may apply. Visa, Mastercard, EFTPOS.

www.opotikiholidaypark.co.nz

COOKS COVE WALKWAY 7

Great views, lush farmland, instructive interpretation panels and a good swimming cove makes for an excellent day trip.

Where is it?

At the southern end of Tolaga Bay, 52km from Gisborne. Take SH 35 and turn off at Wharf Rd. Westend, Ōhope © Whakatāne District Council

Terrain

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS

Well-formed bush paths. Keep to the tracks to avoid coastal bluffs.

• Whakatāne has a strong Māori heritage and you can experience the cultural traditions on guided tours here. Enjoy a hangi feast, visit a marae and pā site and learn a traditional craft. You can also take a night tour to see kiwi in their native habitat, take a diving, fishing or dolphin swimming trip, visit Te Urewera National Park or the Whirinaki Forest for a walk or a white-water rafting adventure, or take an exciting tour to White Island – an active marine volcano off the coast.

• Known as the seaside playground of the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Ōhope Beach is 11km of unspoilt sand perfect for swimming and surfing, and unsurprisingly it’s held the title of the nation’s best beach.

• Just south, the sensational Eastland region begins. Travel around SH 35 on a road trip to Gisborne – chardonnay country – that hugs the beautiful coastline for more than 300km, taking in sensational beaches, beautifully carved marae and friendly rural communities.

A highlight is Tolaga Bay, where the longest wharf in the country juts 660m out to sea.

No dogs as much of this track is on private farmland

Need to know The track is closed each year from 1 August until 31 October for lambing. Mountain biking, camping and fires are all prohibited. Toilets can be found at the wharf where there is also a good playground.

TRACK OVERVIEW After admiring the historic Tolaga Bay Wharf, make your way to the paddock where the walkway begins. Crossing open pastureland, you will climb through low bush, with much of the walk on farm tracks. After about 20 minutes you will find the lookout point 120m above sea level, where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Cooks Cove, a pretty sheltered inlet. Look out to the rugged Mitre Rocks that lie to the left of the entrance and Pourewa Island rising up on the right. The winding track then descends through regenerating bush until you reach the coastal flat of the bay. Explore Te Kotere o te Whenua, otherwise known as the ‘Hole in the Wall’, and take a look the New Zealand Historic Places Trust memorial, erected in 1966 to commemorate Captain Cook’s inaugural exploration of Aotearoa in 1769. Ideal for picnics and photography.

Ngā Tapuwae o Toi walking trail A trail of spectacular scenery, diverse nature and history

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Whakatane.nz WALKING MUST-DO’S 41

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

Walking in Central North Island To the west, the Taranaki region

incongruous sight deep in the

and the Whanganui National Park

wilderness.

are equally impressive. Whanganui National Park has gorges, sheer clay cliffs and picturesque waterfalls and

Some of the purest natural beauty in

is blanketed with native lowland forest. The mystical Whanganui

New Zealand is found at the heart of the

River snakes its way through the

Central North Island, where two national

importance to local Māori. The

parks – the dual World Heritage Tongariro

park; a mighty waterway of great Whanganui Journey is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, although

National Park and the Whanganui

it’s actually a 145km kayak journey

National Park – provide a multitude of

the iconic Bridge to Nowhere, an

down the river with a side-trip to

To the north, Taupō is home to some wonderful walks of varying lengths. Exploring the vast and always-stunning Lake Taupō and the thundering Huka Falls are two excellent options.

Yet another paradise for walkers within the Central North Island, Rotorua incorporates its unique geothermal wonders and spectacular lake and forest scenery into a network of walks, with something suitable for every ability.

walking opportunities.

T

ongariro is New

lakes, glacial valleys, thermal

Zealand’s oldest national

steaming and active craters.

park. Despite its excellent

From alpine herb fields to forests,

skiing opportunities in winter, more

from tranquil lakes to desert-like

visitors actually come in summer

plateau, it’s a place of extremes

to take advantage of one of the

and surprises. The park includes

world’s best mountain-hiking trails.

the three volcanoes: Tongariro,

The park’s landscape of stark

Ngāuruhoe and Ruapehu. All

glacial contrasts is breathtaking.

three are very much alive, but a

Side by side you can see barren

monitoring system allowing early

lava flows and explosion pits,

warning of eruptions means it’s

winter snowfields, brilliant blue

safe to visit.

42

ABOVE: Farmland looking toward Mt Pirongia © Tourism Waikato TOP: Tongariro Alpine Crossing © Tourism New Zealand LEFT: Tongariro Northern Circuit – Taranaki Falls © Department of Conservation_90 Seconds

1

26

1B

2

27

TAURANGA

BAY OF PLENTY

Papamoa HAMILTON

23

Raglan

1

Matamata

39

Pirongia Forest Park

Tīrau

Whakatāne

5

Te Awamutu

31

30

Lake Rotorua

1

ROTORUA

4

Tokoroa

Ōtorohanga Waitomo

3

2

Te Puke

28

33

3

2 Kāwhia

29

1

36

29

Cambridge

Te Kuiti

30

1

32

5

Mangakino

Murupara

30

3

1

32

4

Wairākei

Pureora Forest Park Lake Taupō

Te Urewera

TAUPŌ

5 Taumarunui

1

41

Rangitaikī

WALKS

43 WAIRĒINGA/BRIDAL

1

VEIL FALLS

2

MT PIRONGIA SUMMIT VIA MAHAUKURA TRACK

3

RUAKURI 6 WALK

4

BLUE LAKE TRACK Whanganui

5

7

National Park

GREAT LAKE WALKWAY

6

TONGARIRO NORTHERN CIRCUIT

7

TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING

5

Turangi

4

47

National Park

Kaimanawa Forest Park

7 6

2

1

Whakapapa

Kaweka Forest Park

Tongariro National Park Ōhakune

49

NAPIER Hastings

Waiouru

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS

Surfing, Raglan © Tourism Waikato

• Matamata, the land of the Hobbits

• Rotorua’s awe-inspiring geothermal parks

• The magnificent, themed Hamilton Gardens

• Adrenalin pumping thrills and spills in Rotorua

• Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari

• Take in Rotorua’s 18 stunning lakes

• The Waikato River Trails for walking/cycling

• Experience a living thermal Māori village

• The Bohemian surf village of Raglan

• Rotorua family fun: gondola, luge, wildlife

• Underground adventures at Waitomo Caves

• Explore the immense Lake Taupō

• Te Aroha’s silky mineral hot pools

• Be wowed by the exhilarating Huka Falls

• Ōtorohanga’s Kiwiana displays and Kiwi House

• The pure natural beauty of the UNESCO Dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park

• Kāwhia’s beautiful harbour and surf beach

WALKING MUST-DO’S 43

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

WAIREINGA/BRIDAL VEIL FALLS 1

An excellent leg-stretcher break for those driving round these parts, the track follows the Pakoka River and leads to elegant falls.

Where is it?

28km from Raglan, turn off at SH 23 and on to Kauroa-Kāwhia Rd and enter the Wairēinga Scenic Reserve.

Terrain The track has been upgraded at the top and includes a wide flat section so wheelchairs and strollers can gain access. To get to the lower viewing platform, follow the wooden steps, covered with mesh to prevent slipping.

Good to know There is a pretty picnic area at the top of the falls and toilets too.

No swimming

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW An easy walk to an impressive waterfall that plunges 55m into the pool below. Two viewing platforms at the top of the falls, accessible for wheelchairs, provide excellent views across lush tawa forest to rural Waikato. From the bush-lined track stairs descend steeply to a midway viewing point. Carved out by centuries of falling water, the sandstone pools form a natural amphitheatre, while the hard ring of basalt rock is a souvenir from an historic volcanic eruption.

10min to lookout; 0.5km Basic fitness required 300 steps to bottom of falls

MT PIRONGIA SUMMIT VIA MAHAUKURA TRACK 2

The Mahaukura Track is a challenging hike to the Mt Pirongia viewing tower, where walkers can congratulate themselves with sweeping scenes of lush Waikato farmland.

TRACK OVERVIEW Setting off from the Grey Rd car park, the trail climbs pretty steadily through forest, including some impressive stands of tawa. Follow the track to Wharauroa Lookout, stop for photography, then press on for another 30min to Mahaukura. The track undulates as it goes and is often uneven under foot so take special care.

From Mahaukura, the track descends a way before climbing towards the Pirongia summit viewing tower which is found 959m above sea level. This track can also be accessed off O’Shea Rd via the Wharauroa Track.

Where is it?

Just north of Pirongia, turn off SH 39 onto Te Pahu Rd, then Hodgson Rd, then Grey Rd. There are two car parks, lower and upper; at the latter you’ll find an info kiosk with maps.

Terrain Bush paths, some clay and gravel, steep-sided ridges, rough at times, boggy after rain.

Safety first

© Photographer

This mountain can be unpredictable so you need to be prepared for all conditions.

No dogs, this is kiwi and kōkako country

4-6hr one way; 9km Strong fitness required Challenging hike

One of New Zealand’s great cycling Trails is also one of our great walking Trails

EXPERIENCE NEW ZEALAND’S LONGEST RIVER, THE MIGHTY WAIKATO

An adventure of discovery along New Zealand’s longest river with something new around every corner

TAKE IN THE STUNNING SCENERY ON A RELAXED DAY TRIP OR OVERNIGHT ADVENTURE OUR FRIENDLY EXPERT TEAM HAVE ALL THE INFORMATION YOU NEED Ph 0800 874 978 | www.waikatorivertrails.com | 44

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3

RUAKURI WALK

One of the best things to do in Waitomo, this walk features an impressive forest gorge, limestone formations, bridges and a pretty stream.

Where is it?

Four kilometres from Waitomo Village, turn left at the roundabout into Tumutumu Rd, then head to the well sign-posted Ruakuri car park.

Terrain Well-maintained bush paths, some steps.

Good to know Take a torch and do this walk at night when you’ll see glowworms along the banks.

No dogs

Origins

Family at Ruakuri Cave © Discover Waitomo

Waikato Walks

From winding tracks through ancient bush-clad landscapes and wildlife reserves to casual strolls along the river and fertile rolling hills - discover an array of excellent walking and hiking trails in the Mighty Waikato

waikatonz.com/walking

Ruakuri means den of dogs. As the story goes, this cave was named by Chief Tanetinorau following an episode when he was travelling through the area and one of his party was attached by a pack of wild dogs who used this network of caves as their den.

TRACK OVERVIEW Setting off from the car park, follow the stream and admire the amazing limestone walls before descending to the trail known as Ruakuri Natural Bridge Walkway. Walk to a platform that reaches out into a large cavern-like tunnel where you can search for stalactites and stalagmites.

If you want to make the walk longer, start the trail in the Waitomo Village and go along the 3.3km Waitomo Walkway.

Look for a variety of native birds including tūī, pīwakawaka/fantail and kererū, the native wood pigeon.

45min loop; 1km Easy fitness required Easy walking

Waitomo Lodge

Waitomo District’s highest Qualmarkrated motel. Opened March 2008.

14 studio units, 6 x 1‑bedroom units.

Super king‑size beds in all units.

Air‑conditioned units available. Spa bath units available. 15min drive to Waitomo Caves attractions. Walk across the road to award‑winning Bosco Café for great food.

62 Te Kumi Road, Te Kuiti Ph: +64 7 878 0003 Fax: +64 7 878 8469 • Email: info@waitomo‑lodge.co.nz www.waitomo‑lodge.co.nz

Waitomo District’s highest Qualmark-rated motel WALKING MUST-DO’S 45

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

TOP PICKS

WAITOMO HIGHLIGHTS Ruakuri Cave © Discover Waitomo

Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves © Discover Waitomo

The caves you see today have been 30 million years in the making, formed by underground streams carving out apertures through the limestone rock. The caves include deep caverns, luminescent glowworms and dark waterways, as well as amazing limestone formations.

This fabulous subterranean world is both eerie and captivating. Leaving daylight behind, you will enter an underground network of caverns and passages with pristine crystal formations. Don’t worry, it’s entirely safe and you won’t be alone. Tour guides deliver an informative commentary, sharing natural history and cultural legends.

For a little more adventure, there’s the option of blackwater rafting, abseiling or ziplining within the caves.

Lost World Cave © Waitomo Adventures

The Lost World One of the best ways to get underground at Waitomo is to take an abseiling tour into the Lost World cave.

This 100m drop is the highest commercial abseil in New Zealand. The cave is a mesmerising sight, with daylight casting a heaven-sent beam into the depths. Once you’re in, squeeze, jump and slide your way to ground level.

Alternatively, there’s a staircase into The Window sinkhole giving access to the Lost World abyss without the need to abseil. This trip includes a walk 80m above the floor of the cavern and ziplining along the cavern walls.

WAITOMO

WOODLYN PARK

Voted as one of the TOP 10 Most Unique Accommodation in the World • World War II antisubmarine patrol boat • 1918 steam train • Bristol Freighter Plane (free WiFi in unit) • Conference & Wedding venue for hire • Self-contained campervan parking $10 per site

Stay in our Hobbit Motels, Boat, Train or Plane at Woodlyn Park. Unique Accommodation just 2 minutes from the Waitomo Caves 1177 Waitomo Valley Rd, Waitomo Caves. Phone: +64 7 878 6666

www.woodlynpark.co.nz

46

One of the closest lakes to Rotorua, this is a popular spot for walking, swimming and water sports.

4

BLUE LAKE TRACK

Where is it?

Start at the Blue Lake car park, Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve, where you’ll find bathrooms, a playground and barbecues.

Terrain Easy bush paths, a few ups and downs, it can be muddy in winter.

Handy to know There’s a shop, a playground and toilets at the Top 10 Holiday Park.

90min return; 5.5km Basic fitness required Easy bush paths, few ups and downs Dogs on a leash

Blue Lake © Mark Smith

TRACK OVERVIEW The native bush is filled with birds and the beaches are perfect for picnics. This is a walk that offers beautiful views and fabulously fresh air and the loop that circumnavigates the lake is perfect for warming up before taking a dip in the cool, clear water. The signage from the car park is excellent; most people set off to the right. Featuring ample quantities of quintessential Kiwi bush and stands of towering trees, this charming trek is popular with locals and out-of-towners, thanks to the quiet sandy beaches and pretty views of the Blue Lake and Green Lake (Rotokakahi). The track features a few stairs, some rocky surfaces and boggy patches after rain; the final leg takes you along the roadside so take special care because the road is narrow. Of course you can go the other way round, in a clockwise direction, thus doing the road section first.

If this stunning walk isn’t enough, Rotorua has plenty more options. Discover the city on the 26km Rotorua Walkway, walk beneath towering redwood trees at Whakarewarewa Forest or 12m high on the Redwoods Treewalk, or head up Mt Ngongotaha Jubilee Track for amazing views.

Rotorua’s premier accommodation

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CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND Maori carving at Government Gardens, Rotorua © Adrian Hodge

WALKING ROTORUA

Autumn trees near Redwoods forest © Destination Rotorua

The ultimate walking trail to discover all that Rotorua has to offer is the Rotorua Walkway. The entire walk is 26km, but it’s broken up into eight sections so you can pick and choose. The walk explores everything from important historical and cultural sites to the pretty lakeside, wildlife and geothermal landscapes – including boiling mud pools and steaming sulphur vents.

Boulevard Motel & LICENSED RESTAURANT

Reservations 0800 348 207

• Central Location • One, Two and Three-bedroom Suites • Spa Pool Suites • Genuine Private Mineral Pools

Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park 0800 808 292 723 Tarawera Road Rotorua

bluelaketop10.co.nz

Nestled on the edge of the beautiful Blue Lake only 10 minutes from the centre of Rotorua we have over 14 acres of well-maintained grounds set in a tranquil native bush setting.

Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites • BBQ Area • Children’s Playground • Jumping Pillow • Games Room • WiFi • Kayak Hire • Hot Tub

48

• Heated Swimming Pool • Games Room • Excellent Licensed Restaurant • Free Wireless Internet • 32 TV Channels including Sky Cnr Fenton & Seddon Street, Rotorua Phone: +64 7 348 2074 Email: boulevard@xtra.co.nz

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TOP PICKS

ROTORUA HIGHLIGHTS © Buried Village

LIVING HISTORY Experience Rotorua’s history and delve into Māori culture at the Buried Village, Mitai Māori Village, Whakarewarewa – the Living Thermal Village or Tāmaki Māori Village. The people of Te Arawa tribe first settled in the region in thermal Māori villages, and have been welcoming visitors into their homes ever since. Visit a village for an insight into their way of life and to see Māori myths and legends come to life through song, dance and storytelling.

ADVENTURE In Rotorua, you can zipline across the tree canopy, blaze down mountain biking trails or go zorbing, play in the whitewater on a raft or kayak, parasail or take a scenic flight. Fly downhill on a luge or into the air on the Skyswing, fish for trout, enjoy a round of golf or simply walk around some of its 18 lakes.

Te Puia mud pool © Te Puia

Geothermal wonderland

Redwoods © Redwoods Treewalk

An eco adventure 1000 years in the making...

One of the most famous geothermal attractions is Pohutu Geyser in Te Puia, only five minutes from central Rotorua. Erupting up to 20 times a day, this geyser reaches heights of more than 30m.

Wai-O-Tapu, 27km south of Rotorua, includes Lady Knox Geyser and an easily accessible, diverse 18sq km geothermal park. Visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley, which was formed by the Mt Tarawera eruption.

The force of the eruption split the mountain in two, creating a 17km rift in the Earth’s crust and seven impressive craters. Explore the colourful lakes, geysers and silica terraces.

Rotorua TOP 10 Holiday Park

The very heart of our culture

0800 223 267 1495 Pukuatua Street, Rotorua

Located in the central city, Rotorua TOP 10 is the perfect place to base yourself and experience all the culture, nature and adventure that this region has to offer.

Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites • Free Mineral Pools • Free Offsite Gym • WiFi • Secure Cycle Storage • Adventure Playground • Modern Facilities • BBQ Areas • TV Room with Sky • Centrally located • Jumping Pillow

WALKING MUST-DO’S 49

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

GREAT LAKE WALKWAY 55

This combined walking and cycling trail along the shores of Lake Taupō offers picturesque lake and mountain views with plenty of spots for swims, picnics and playground fun.

TONGARIRO NORTHERN CIRCUIT

The Tongariro National Park provides the backdrop for your alpine adventure with a landscape of stark contrasts and amazing views at every turn.

6

Where is it?

Located in the Central North Island, the Tongariro National Park is the closest national park to Auckland.

It’s easily accessed from Ōhakune, Tūrangi, Taupō and SH 1. The circular Great Walk starts near Whakapapa Village.

Where is it?

Start at Taupō Boat Harbour, at the intersection of Redoubt St and Ferry Rd or set off from the other end at Five Mile Recreation Reserve.

Terrain

Terrain

Moderate-to-high level of fitness and clothing suitable for alpine conditions required.

The easy undulating path is mostly paved, making it perfect for strollers, wheelchairs and bikes.

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW Also known as The Lion’s Walk, the Great Lake Walkway sets off from the Taupō Boat Harbour, heading in the direction of the Three Mile Boat Ramp. This is a relaxed and scenic track for all ages, and as you head further out of town, the world takes on a most tranquil and picturesque quality and features show-stopping views of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe. With several places along the way to stop for swims, picnics and ice creams, the walk concludes at Five Mile Bay Recreation Reserve.

4 days/3 nights; 45km Moderate-high fitness required Season: Late Oct to late Apr © Department of Conservation_90 Seconds

Dogs are permitted

10km one way Basic fitness required Easy walking

TRACK OVERVIEW Tongariro Northern Circuit is a loop track that can be walked in either direction. The track is well marked and signposted, but some sections may be steep, rough or muddy. Starting at Whakapapa Village, hike to the Mangatepopo Valley. See Pukekaikiore, one of the older vents of the Tongariro Complex of explosion craters, lava flows, and volcanic cones. On the second day, hike through the valley and then climb up to the Red Crater (1868m) before descending to

the Emerald Lakes and down into the Oturere Valley. The next day follow the track along the foothills of Ngāuruhoe. After crossing the Waihōhonu Stream, continue through beechforested valley, then climb over the ridge to reach Waihōhonu Hut in the next valley. On the last day, hike alongside the Waihōhonu Stream and up to the Tama Saddle. Take an optional side trip to Tama Lakes, then continue to Whakapapa Village.

Go Somewhere Unique...

stay@thecrossingbackpackers.co.nz Phone: 07 892 2894 www.thecrossingbackpackers.co.nz

50

- Family and studio units - Backpacker and private rooms - Camping and campervans - Tongariro Crossing daily shuttles - Summer Crossing packages - TV lounge and games room - Spacious communal areas - Free bus and train shuttles - Great for school camps - Free WIFI and spa pool

Ohakune TOP 10 Holiday Park

A beautiful bush setting with the mountain stream flowing freely along the Park offering a truly tranquil camping experience.

0800 521 003 5 Moore Street, Ohakune top10.co.nz

Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites BBQ Area • Playground • WiFi • Spa Bath • Spa Pool • Games room • Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle pick up from Park

TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING 7

Described as New Zealand’s greatest day walk, Tongariro Alpine Crossing features crater lakes, sweeping views and alpine majesty.

This is a walk to do at least once in your life.

Where is it?

Start at either Mangatepopo car park on the west of the mountain or Ketetahi car park to the north.

Terrain The climbs can be steep and the terrain includes gravel, scree, boardwalks, bush and alpine paths.

Need to know

Winding its way past Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe, this Great Walk lets you explore dramatic volcanic landscapes including craters, glacial valleys, native beech forest, alpine meadows and emerald-coloured lakes in the Tongariro National Park World Heritage area. © Destination Great Lake Taupō

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS

Taihape Gumboot © AATP

• Turangi is home to the Tongariro National Trout Centre that is run by the Department of Conservation.

Walk through the museum and learn all about trout, feed some in the aquarium and learn to fish.

• Taihape is worth a visit with horse treks, river activities as well as the draw of that huge, metal gumboot sculpture.

If you’re visiting in March, enjoy the annual Taihape Gumboot Festival.

RESERVATIONS: 0508 SAFARI

SAFARI MOTEL

18 Mataroa Rd, Taihape • P: +64 6 388 1116 • E: info@safarimotel.co.nz 24-hour self check-in kiosk. 14 air-con ground-floor units, 12 studio, 2 family. 8 s/c with full cooking. Laundry, spa. Walk to town.

FREE WIFI Ski fields 40min. Golf course 5min.

www.safarimotel.co.nz

This is alpine territory so be prepared for all weather conditions and ensure you have all the essential equipment to handle alpine conditions. Start the walk by 8am or 9am as you do not want to be finishing after dusk.

No dogs

7-9hr one way; 19.4km one way Strong fitness required

TRACK OVERVIEW Leaving from the Mangatepopo car park, the trails begins with gravel and boardwalks as it makes its way steadily up to Soda Springs.

You will find toilets there. Next comes the steepest part of the walk, known affectionately as The Devil’s Staircase; this takes you up to the Mangatepopo Saddle. If you’re feeling frisky, do the Extra for Experts and trot up to Mt Ngāuruhoe before returning to the main track to continue on to the saddle between Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe.

Follow the markers to the South Crater where you’ll find the crossing’s highest point; the Red Crater is 1,887m above sea level. From here walk on past the Emerald Lakes, then it’s around the side of the Blue Lake where it’s pretty much all downhill to the Ketetahi Shelter. The last two hours, give or take, lead you through native forest before letting you out at the Ketetahi car park.

If you want to avoid peak season, walk in November or December when there are only two or three hundred people on the track each day.

RESERVATION FREEPHONE:

0800 200 029

Taihape Motels Only Motel off the Main Road Quiet & Comfortable

Cnr Kuku & Robin Streets (centre of town), TAIHAPE (PO Box 202) Hosts: Eileen, Con & Lisa Vasil E: bookings@taihapemotels.co.nz P/F: +64 6 388 0456 • Guest line: +64 6 388 1578 • 21 variety units at various rates – including luxury, family and 2-bedroom units set among roses • 200m to main road and town centre, licensed and BYO restaurants (charge-back facilities) • Meals delivered to unit • Ample parking • Queen and king-size beds • In-house movies. Individual DVD with extensive library to choose from • Complimentary morning paper • 32in LED TVs and heating in all units including bedrooms! • Electric blankets etc • Credit cards, EFTPOS

TARIFF:

• Kitchen and luxury units $85-$95 (queen/king/twin) • Studio (tea, toaster, microwave) units $80 • 1 and 2-bedroom units $115$125 (double) • Extra person $15 • 3 holiday flats (sleep 2-8) POA • 10% discount to AA Members or senior citizens • 14 channels with Sky TV 5 channels including Sports, Racing & Movies

www.taihapemotels.co.nz WALKING MUST-DO’S 51

LOWER NORTH ISLAND

Walking in Lower North Island The Lower North Island is a go-to destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with beautifully varied scenery in every corner of the region.

A

diverse area

coastal townships are linked by a

Inland from Taranaki, the

encompassing

pathway that also takes in wineries

Whanganui National Park is a

everything from sunny

pubs, cafés, rivers and ocean views.

wonderland of gorges, sheer clay

wine-growing plains to often-snowtipped mountains and the bright lights of our capital city Wellington, there’s a walk to suit every ability.

Across the North Island, the striking west coast region of Taranaki is worlds apart. From Mt Taranaki – the heart of the region,

cliffs, waterfalls and native lowland forest with the mythical Whanganui River flowing through its core. Walks abound, the most famous being the walk to the 'Bridge to Nowhere'.

The Hawke’s Bay is 'Wine Country'; a

the pounding sea along its coast

warm region drenched in sunshine.

and the hundreds of kilometres

Manawatū offers a delightful mix of

It's dry and flat with a landscape

of alpine and bush hikes to the

rural life and the city sophistication

dominated by picturesque

region's famed gardens and New

of Palmerston North. Te Apiti

vineyards – in other words, prime

Plymouth's award-winning Coastal

– Manawatū Gorge is not to be

walking country. Its major centres,

Walkway, the walking options here

missed for its iconic day walks,

Napier and Hastings, and its pretty

are world class.

biking trails and swimming spots.

At the bottom of the North Island, our cool capital city of Wellington is nestled between a dazzling harbour and a striking amphitheatre of tree-lined hills, and bordered by the Remutaka Range to the east and the Tararua Range to the north.

This presents incredible walking opportunities of every description, from city strolls between museums and cafés to hikes in the ranges with stunning views.

TOP: Mt Taranaki © Rob Tucker / Venture Taranaki LEFT: Taranaki coastline © Venture Taranaki RIGHT: Napier © Ben Shafer

52

4

NEW PLYMOUTH Whanganui National Park

Whangamomona Ōakura

1 45

43

Egmont National Park Ōpunake

1

Tongariro National Park

5

Kaimanawa Forest Park

2

3

Stratford

2

Rangipō

47

3

49

Hawke’s Bay

Kaweka Forest Park

Ōhakune Waiouru

NAPIER

1

Hāwera

Hastings

4

3

Taihape

Pātea

Havelock North

Mangaweka

50 WHANGANUI

Hunterville

3 Marton

South Taranaki Bight

Apiti

1

Ruahine Forest Park

2 Waimārama Waipukurau

54

Bulls

Dannevirke

Feilding

3

4

1

Pōrangahau

Woodville

PALMERSTON NORTH Foxton

57

2

Levin Tararua Forest Park

Otaki Kāpiti Island

Waikanae

Paraparaumu

Castlepoint Masterton

Paekākāriki

1 Porirua

2

Upper Hutt Lower Hutt

6

53 Martinborough

WELLINGTON

7

5

WALKS

Carterton

Featherston

Aorangi Forest Park

1

POUAKAI CROSSING

2

DAWSON FALLS WALKING TRACKS

3

BRIDGE TO NOWHERE WALK

4

MANAWATŪ GORGE TAWA LOOP WALK

5

ŌRONGORONGO TRACK

6

MĀKARA WALKWAY

7

CITY TO SEA WALKWAY

Palliser Bay

Cape Palliser

LOWER NORTH ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS • Hawke’s Bay's world-famous wineries • Te Mata Peak, the 'sleeping giant' • Napier’s art deco architecture • Napier's National Aquarium of New Zealand • New Plymouth's 12.7km Coastal Walkway • Mt Taranaki – the heart of the region • Taranaki’s black-sand surf beaches • Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre • Puke Ariki – museum, library, visitor centre • The Forgotten World Highway heritage trail

• Gorgeous gardens and parks of Taranaki • Exploring the Whanganui River • Bridge to Nowhere, Whanganui National Park • Kāpiti Island Nature Reserve • The Beehive and Parliament Buildings • Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa • Zealandia – world-first fenced eco-sanctuary • Wellington’s famed café and dining scene • Cable Car to the Wellington Botanic Garden • Tour Weta Workshop and see movie magic

WALKING MUST-DO'S 53

Photo Rach Stewart

LOWER NORTH ISLAND

DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF TARANAKI From crossing a mythical mountain to taking a walk of art, there’s a lot to discover in the region Lonely Planet called ‘an undiscovered gem.’ Put Taranaki on your to-do list and for everything you need beyond the walk head to visit.taranaki.info.

visit.taranaki.info 54

1

POUAKAI CROSSING

This spectacular one-day walk takes in the highlights of the Pouakai Circuit, with great views across a variety of landscapes.

Where is it?

Starts at North Egmont Visitor Centre and finishes at the Egmont National Park boundary at Mangōrei Rd. You need to use a shuttle service or arrange transportation with two vehicles.

Need to know The best time to walk the Pouakai Crossing is from December to April. It can be walked year round but the higher parts can be affected by snow and ice in winter.

No dogs

7-9hr; 19km one way

Egmont National Park © AATP

Reasonable fitness required – moderately challenging walk

TRACK OVERVIEW A slip has closed a section but the Pouakai Crossing is accessible from Kōkōwai Track. The track is wellformed and popular.

Mt Taranaki features significantly and you can also expect to frame views over north Taranaki countryside to the coast and inland to Mt Ruapehu in your camera. The walk winds past lava columns, rivers and streams, the Ahukawakawa Swamp and across the golden tussocks of the Pouakai plateau. It finishes with a descent through forest to the lower Pouakai Ranges.

Parts of the track are muddy and it’s a very full day so be prepared, check the weather and check for alerts and changes to the track at the visitor centre or on the Department of Conservation website.

Home to countless classic beaches and surf breaks Museum of South Taranaki Egmont Street, Patea

66 Waihi Road, Hawera (06) 278 0021| aquatic@stdc.govt.nz

55 High St, Hawera (06) 278 8599 | visitorinfo@stdc.govt.nz For more things to see and do visit

www.southtaranaki.com

Ads - 1/4 page Tawhiti 455122

With nine tourism awards to its credit, Tawhiti is now considered one of New Zealand’s most innovative historical presentations. Its lifesize figures, smaller scale dioramas and vast collection of artifacts is simply like no other.

401 Ohangai Rd, Hawera.

Phone +64 6 278 6837 or Email: info@tawhitimuseum.co.nz Museum website: www.tawhitimuseum.co.nz Traders & Whalers website: www.tradersandwhalers.co.nz

•Opening hours on website •Cafe on site

WALKING MUST-DO'S 55

LOWER NORTH ISLAND

DAWSON FALLS WALKING TRACKS 2

Where is it?

TRACK OVERVIEW There are three main walks, and they all take around an hour.

The 1.4km Kapuni Loop down to Dawson Falls travels along Kapuni Stream, through what’s described as a ‘goblin forest' of subalpine trees. After following a short steep track, you will reach the base of Te Rere o Noke, Dawson Falls.

The 1.9km Wilkie’s Pools Loop Track takes you to a series of pools carved out of ancient lava flow. You’ll want swimsuits and towels as there is excellent swimming along here; the first 900m to the pools are stroller friendly.

The 1.9km Ridge Loop Track heads up through forest and crosses the stream before taking you back to the visitor centre.

Dawson Falls Visitor Centre, Manaia Rd, Egmont National Park.

Terrain Well-maintained forest paths, some steps, expect mud after rain, and the river may be dangerous to cross if the rain has been heavy.

Did you know?

Dawson Falls Power station is one of the world’s longest serving generators, having been in continuous operation since 1935.

Built in 1900 in New York, it was previously in service in Tasmania before being shipped to Taranaki. Walkers can look into the machine room thanks to push button illumination.

Kapuni Loop 1hr, Wilkie's Pool Loop 80min, Ridge Loop 80min Basic fitness required Some steps

No dogs Dawson Falls © AATP

TARANAKI HIGHLIGHTS MT TARANAKI

TOP PICKS

Family at Pukeiti © Venture Taranaki

This iconic mountain invites walkers and climbers to discover its natural beauty.

Climbing Mt Taranaki is recommended only for the fit and well-prepared as it takes five hours to ascend and three hours to descend.

Mt Taranaki © Venture Taranaki

TAKE EXTRA CARE – Mt Taranaki is renowned not only for its beauty, but also for its ever-changing weather. Visit the Department of Conservation or i-SITE Visitor Centre for advice before you decide to hike to the summit, or hire an experienced guide.

NEW PLYMOUTH New Plymouth is an eclectic mix of diverse ethnic cultures, contemporary style and hospitality.

There's a huge selection of things to do from arts trails, surfing, cycling and waterfront walks including the 12.7km New Plymouth Coastal Walkway. This award-winning walk stretches almost the entire length of the city and provides an up-close Tasman Sea experience along an attractive paved promenade.

56

Beach walking in New Plymouth © Venture Taranaki

GORGEOUS GARDENS This region is renowned for its gorgeous awardwinning gardens. Pukeiti is well known and well regarded for its rhododendrons; in fact it boasts one of the world’s most diverse collections. Tupare, established in 1932, is a beautifully restored garden and home surrounded by magnificent redwoods, rhododendrons, azaleas and hydrangeas. Hollard Gardens is densely planted with beautiful plants, with an emphasis on well-established rhododendrons and camellias. Te Kāinga Marire is a cleverly designed inner-city garden developed around a homestead incorporating the remains of a coastal swamp forest and pā site.

Bridge to Nowhere © Tourism New Zealand

3

BRIDGE TO NOWHERE WALK

A short walk to an impressive feat of engineering deep within the pristine Whanganui National Park.

Where is it?

Two options: Start at Mangapūrua Landing on the Whanganui River with boat transport required. This will take 90min and is 3km returning the way you came. Or start at the Mangapūrua Track, with access from either Whakahoro Rd or Ruatiti Rd. To walk from Whakahoro it will take approximately 11hr, or from Ruatiti Rd end, it also takes about 11hr. The easiest way is to use river transport and opt for the 3km return walk.

Terrain Well-maintained bush trails.

Get this The Bridge to Nowhere experiences more traffic today, albeit foot traffic, than when it was first constructed.

TRACK OVERVIEW This impressive concrete bridge was built in 1936 to provide a means of crossing Mangapūrua Stream, which was a significant upgrade from the swing bridge people used to cross on. Sadly, by the time the bridge was completed, only three farmers lived in the area and, with so few people located around the bridge, the government chose not to maintain the roads that connected with it. The result is a charming walk through quintessential New Zealand native bush to an unexpectedly sturdy and elegant structure.

Only dogs with a Department of Conservation permit

WHANGANUI HIGHLIGHTS Surrounded by dramatic beaches and wilderness, Whanganui rests on the banks of New Zealand's longest navigable river. The city is just as pretty as its setting, thanks to a rich concentration of heritage buildings. Take in the architecture via a walking tour, including a visit to the shellclad Durie Hill War Memorial Tower, reached via an elevator built 200m inside a hill. Like the Durie Hill elevator, a lot of Whanganui’s heritage transport is still in operation. Take a river cruise on a paddle steamer

or catch a (very short) ride on Mable, a restored tram.

The beauty and stories of the region are an inspiration for Whanganui’s famed artist community. Browse the River Traders’ Market on Saturdays, then visit New Zealand Glassworks, where you can watch artists twist and stretch hot glass. The Sarjeant Gallery (temporarily set on Taupō Quay), shows New Zealand and international art and the Whanganui Regional Museum has a large collection of Māori taonga (treasures).

Sculpture Sphere Bearing in Whanganui © Whanganuinz.com

From Mangapūrua Landing 90min return/3km or from Whakahoro 11hr or from Ruatiti Rd end 11hr Basic fitness if walking short version Easy walking if walking short version WALKING MUST-DO'S 57

LOWER NORTH ISLAND A great walk for families with a rich mix of ancient native bush and expansive views.

MANAWUATU GORGE TAWA LOOP WALK 4

Where is it?

It starts at the Ashhurst end of the Manawatū Gorge, around 15km east of Palmerston North, adjacent to SH 3. The car park is just before the entrance to the gorge.

west rather than 40km east.

Why? It’s understood that the river existed before the Tararua Mountain Ranges were formed.

No dogs

Terrain Well-formed and maintained tracks. The 20-minute Manawatū Gorge Track is suitable for strollers but the longer loop track is not.

2hr; 4km loop Medium fitness required

Go with the flow The Manawatū River is the only river to flow from Hawke's Bay to the west coast, travelling 105km © ManawatuNZ.co.nz

Some climbing

TRACK OVERVIEW

EXPLORE MANAWATŪ Manawatū time runs nice and easy. Discover Palmerston North's eclectic mix of fun and food, and don't miss Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and History. The Manawatū River Pathway is a brilliant shared path alongside Victoria Esplanade. Along the Manawatū Scenic Route, Totara Reserve is home to walks, swimming holes and an adventure playground.

UPPER HUTT

WELLINGTON’S KIWI HOLIDAY PARK

This is an inspiring walk through beautiful territory, with lots of added interest.

Be extra careful at the start of the track between the main highway and the river, as there are sharp drop-offs to the river. The 4km Loop Track branches off the short Manawatū Gorge Track and eventually comes back to it. It passes through tawa and podocarp forest, along with nīkau palms and a maidenhair fern unique to the area. Along the way you’ll get brilliant views across Palmerston North, come across a carving of Māori warrior Whatonga and have the option of venturing down to the Big Slip Lookout to see the famous slip that closed the gorge.

5

ORONGORONGO TRACK

The most popular walk in the Remutaka Forest Park, with a variety of forest, a bit of a challenge and swimming holes.

Where is it?

Starts at Catchpool car park on Catchpool Valley Rd, 12km south of Wainuiomata.

Gateway to the south...

Features all-weather and grass power sites TARIFF: • Tent sites $18 adult, $10 child (unmetered showers) • Power sites $28 (single), $45 (double), extra $18, child $10 • Standard Cabins $50 (double), extra $15, child $10 • Family Cabins $75 (double), extra $15, child $10 • ECO Cabins $80 (double), extra $15, child $10 • Kitchen Cabins $90 (double), extra $15, child $10 • Tourist flats $120 (double), extra $15, child $10 • Motels $145 (double), extra $15, child $10

WELLINGTON’S KIWI HOLIDAY PARK

45 Akatarawa Rd, Upper Hutt P +64 4 526 7400 • 027 243 2133 E harcourtholidaypark@xtra.co.nz Proprietors: Giles Family

Easy access to Remutaka Cycle Trail, Forest Park and Orongorongo Track Secure Bike Storage and Bike Cleaning Facilities WELLINGTON’S KIWI HOLIDAY PARK Suitable for large buses and campervans. Approximately 25 minutes from Wellington and ferry terminals. Connecting bus and train service to Wellington City from holiday park.

Seasonal rates.

Wellington’s Kiwi Holiday Park

Phone for reservations: +64 4 526 7400 www.harcourtholidaypark.co.nz

58

Terrain Well-maintained gravel and forest paths.

Need to know The Catchpool car park gate is open from 6am-8pm in summer and 6am-6pm in winter.

4-5hr; 10.4km Average fitness required Some climbing Dogs are allowed on a leash only

TRACK OVERVIEW Set off from the car park, where there is also an information centre and, for the first 90 minutes or so, climb through a variety of forest types from podocarp, including rimu, miro and tōtara, to broadleaf which, thanks to the tangled vines and ferns, can resemble a tropical rainforest. Nīkau palms and tawa are also prevalent along this first section. As you climb higher up Cattle Ridge the forest starts

to transform into hard beech and, at the track’s highest point between Catchpool Valley and the Ōrongorongo River, you’ll come across a towering stand of northern rātā. No matter how many times you view these majestic trees, they will always take your breath away.

Finally, at the end of the track, you’ll discover the swimming holes of the Turere Stream which, in summer, couldn’t be a more welcome sight.

TOP PICKS

Greytown © AATP

WAIRARAPA A region with variety and charm, the Wairarapa is both peaceful and interesting thanks to its mix of towns, quality cafés, arts, coastal treasures, culture and wine. Martinborough is the heart of the Classic NZ Wine Trail with over 20 wineries. Greytown is lined with antique shops, cafés and boutiques, while Pūkaki National Wildlife Centre is a sanctuary for native birds.

7

6

MAKARA WALKWAY TRACK OVERVIEW One of three tracks in the Meridian West Wind Recreation Area, this is the kind of walk that blows out the cobwebs. Starting and ending on Mākara Beach, the trail climbs upward to provide walkers with incredible views across to Kāpiti Island, the South Island and majestic wind farms. For military history buffs, make time to explore the ancient pā site of Ngati Ira, found at the western end of Fisherman’s Bay. You can also spot gun emplacements from World War Two, when Fort Opau was the garrison home to over 100 soldiers. Be sure to pack water, warm clothes and be prepared for all weather conditions as this can be a rugged section of coast.

Stride into the fresh sea air and be greeted with astonishing views, as well as historic gun emplacements, coastal delights and rich farmland.

Where is it?

Mākara Beach, 16km north of Wellington.

Terrain

Coastal paths, rough tracks, farm trails.

Need to know

The track is closed from August till Labour Weekend for lambing When the northerly wind is blowing strongly, it is advisable to avoid this walk but if there’s a southerly the area can be pleasantly sheltered/ Beware of tides when walking on the beach.

3-4hr; 6km loop Average fitness required Some climbing

No dogs

CITY TO SEA WALKWAY

Perfect for finding your bearings in the capital city, whether you do this walk end-to-end or in small sections.

Where is it?

Start at Bolton Street Cemetery in the city and walk towards Island Bay on the south coast.

Terrain City walking, town belt and bush tracks, pretty parks, quite hilly.

Grave news Bolton Street Cemetery is made up of three separate cemeteries with gravestones dating back to the 1840s. It’s elegant, peaceful and beautifully maintained so take a moment to reflect before setting off on the walk, if there’s time.

No dogs

6-7hr; 12km Reasonable fitness required View of Wellington from Mt Victoria © Positively Wellington Tourism

City walking, quite hilly

Although you'll feel as though you're deep in the wilderness, you're not too far from the bright lights of Wellington. From the bustling promenade along the waterfront to colourful street performers in Cuba Mall; the tempting wine lists in intimate bars to the pockets of gastronomic pleasure within walking distance of each other, Wellington is the perfect place to spend a weekend.

There is so much to see and do here, but don't miss exploring the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the eco-sanctuary of Zealandia and a trip up Mt Victoria in the iconic Cable Car.

TRACK OVERVIEW Watching out for the orange trail markers, depart from the historic Bolton Street Cemetery before crossing the motorway on the Denis McGrath Bridge. Arriving in the formal rose gardens of the Wellington Botanic Gardens, 25 hectares of impressively grand planting, you’ll want to make some time to explore here before heading to the top of the Wellington Cable Car. Walk down the steps to Kelburn Park and through the grounds of Victoria University and onwards, down to Aro Valley past all the old houses clinging to the hillsides. Then you’ll go up through Central Park in Brooklyn before making a beeline for MacAlistair Park. Walk around the fringes of the Berhampore Golf Course before arriving on Tawatawa Bridge. This can be quite bracing when the wind is blowing but it’s also where you’ll discover some of the best views.

This is also the steepest part of the walk, so ideal for a break to catch your breath. Once you see the Oku Reserve Trig, you’ll know you’re not far from Island Bay, which you’ll get to by walking down Shorland St.

WALKING MUST-DO'S 59

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN

Walking in Marlborough & Nelson Tasman

Awaroa water taxi © AbelTasman.com BELOW: Farewell Spit © NelsonNZ.com

The reasons that you will love lacing up your walking shoes in the Marlborough and Nelson Tasman regions are both myriad and irresistible, from the trio of wonderfully varied national parks to the sunny climate and gourmet and artistic gems.

T

here are no less than

images of turquoise bays cradled

three national parks in

by sweeps of golden sand. Aside

this region’s bounds.

from the famous Abel Tasman

From water so blue it doesn’t

Coast Track, various other short

actually look real and dazzling

walks are available.

white-sand bays to glacier-carved alpine lakes surrounded by snowy peaks, each park offers a unique walking experience.

In stark contrast, the 102,000ha Nelson Lakes National Park is centred on two beautiful glaciercarved alpine lakes, Rotoiti and

The 22,530ha water-fringed

Rotoroa. There are wonderful

playground of the Abel Tasman

lakeside tracks, short walks and

National Park must be one of the

treks that take several days

most recognised locations in the

to complete, as well as safe

country, with its picture-perfect

swimming and boating. In winter,

60

the Rainbow Ski Area hosts skiers

its splendour, while shorter walks

and snowboarders. Ski touring and

provide options for those with less

alpine climbing (for experienced

time or fitness levels.

climbers) are also available.

If you’re more of an urban explorer,

Covering most of the northwestern

discover Nelson on one of its

corner of the South Island, the

inner-city walks. From blooming city

Kahurangi National Park is a large

gardens and historical streetscapes

park with a heart of limestone and

to art and crafts studios bursting

marble. It incorporates a mix of wild

with trinkets and treasures, you’ll

rivers, gorges, tussock and caves

capture the essence of the city best

and all-round impressive scenery.

on foot. Don’t miss any opportunity

New Zealand’s longest Great Walk,

to indulge in the region’s gourmet

the Heaphy Track, starts in the

produce, award-winning fine wine

Aorere Valley and takes in much of

or famed craft beer on your travels.

WALKS 1

WAINUI FALLS TRACK

2

ABEL TASMAN COAST TRACK

3

TĀKAKA HILL WALKWAY

4

HEAPHY TRACK

5

QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK

Farewell Spit Pūponga Pākawau

6

LAKE CHALICE HUT WALK

7

LAKE ROTOITI CIRCUIT

8

SPEARGRASS TRACK

Golden Bay Collingwood

Anatori

Ōnekakā

Bainham

60

4

Tākaka

1

2

d’Urville Island

3

Okiwi Bay

Motueka Tasman

6

Māpua

Karamea

French Pass

Tasman Bay

Kaiteriteri

Kahurangi National Park

NELSON

Karamea Bight

Tapawera

Atapo Glenhope

67 Denniston Westport

6

6

6

Gowanbridge

Murchison

Charleston

69

Kikiwa

1 BLENHEIM

6

Wairau Valley

63

Seddon

63

8

65 Matakitaki

Picton

Rapaura Mt Richmond Forest Park

6

Ngākawau

Arapawa Island

5

Rai Valley

6

6

Motupiko Mōkihinui

Endeavour Inlet

Havelock

Richmond

Inangahua

Cook Strait

Abel Tasman National Park

St Arnaud

Ward

7

Nelson Lakes National Park

Tapuae-o-Uenuku

1

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN HIGHLIGHTS • The majestic Marlborough Sounds – a maze of sea-drowned valleys fringed by sandy bays

• Golden Bay and Farewell Spit, one of the longest natural sandbars in the world

• The Marlborough Wine Trail – the easiest way to sample the region’s famous wine

• The crystal-clear Te Waikoropupū Springs

• Walking or cycling the Queen Charlotte Track • Dine on mussels in Havelock, mussel capital • Explore the pretty town of Picton • Sample Blenheim’s gourmet delights • Blenheim’s cultural attractions, including the Ōmaka Aviation Heritage Centre, Ōmaka Classic Cars and the Marlborough Museum Hiking, Abel Tasman National Park © Oliver Weber

• Beautiful golden-sand beaches

• Nelson’s creative art and craft scene • Kayaking the Abel Tasman National Park • The beautiful Nelson Lakes National Park • Nelson’s wine, craft beer and fresh produce • World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum • Thrilling adventures from skydiving and quad biking to the world’s longest flying fox • The lively towns of Māpua and Motueka

To the northwest of Nelson, the Golden Bay area beckons. A sun-trap and a place of extreme beauty, the bay is well-known for being an arty, homespun paradise for alternative lifestylers. Naturally, the best way to explore is on foot.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 61

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN A short walk through lush native bush leads to the cascading Wainui Falls, the largest and most accessible falls in Golden Bay/Mohua – there’s also a long swingbridge for children to enjoy.

WAINUI FALLS TRACK 1

Where is it?

The track begins from a car park at Wainui Bay, about 20km northeast of Tākaka. Look for the directional sign about 300m after crossing the Wainui River Bridge.

Good to know Stay together as a group and keep children close as the track has some steep drop-offs in places.

Be prepared: ensure you take food and water and wear sturdy footwear.

1hr 20min; 3.4km return Low to moderate fitness required Gentle, 1 flight of stairs No dogs © NelsonNZ.com

© AbelTasman.com

Wainui Falls Track is popular with families and can be very busy throughout the day over the peak summer months when people flock to the region.

The best time to complete this walk is in autumn when there are fewer people in the area, and while temperatures remain warm. You’ll also get to appreciate the natural flair and colour of nearby Tākaka.

Start by crossing farmland for a short distance, then walk through a forest of nīkau palms, rātā trees and ferns.

The track climbs rapidly alongside spectacular granite boulders, following the Wainui River. There’s a great suspension bridge on the way; below this you can see old logs piled up after massive floods.

You will know you are close to the falls when you can hear the sound of rushing water.

Return to the Wainui Bay car park on the same track.

After the walk, take some time to explore nearby Tākaka, a town full of character and friendly faces.

The town is the main centre for Golden Bay with a range of accommodation options, restaurants and cafés – including some of the finest organic, vegetarian and vegan cafés in New Zealand. If you’re interested in art and craft, you will want to follow the Art Trail.

ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK When you’re unwinding on a stretch of golden sand here, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re basking on a beach on a tropical island. You can spend your days exploring the beautiful bays and coves by yourself or with a local tour guide. One way to get there is by water taxi from Kaiteriteri or Mārahau, with more frequent trips in summer and less frequent in winter. The water taxis call at all

62

TRACK OVERVIEW

the main beaches as far north as Tōtaranui. You can also charter a yacht, paddle a sea kayak here or go skydiving in nearby Motueka.

There are two main gateways to the park: follow the road past Mārahau and Kaiteriteri from the south, or go via Tākaka to reach the park from the north. From Mārahau, it’s a 20-minute walk into the park which will take you to some delightful, serene bays.

Blessed with a mild climate, golden beaches and coastal forest, the Abel Tasman Coast Track really does have it all. One of New Zealand’s ten Great Walks, this track has half or multiday options which make it ideal for families.

ABEL TASMAN COAST TRACK 2

Where is it?

5 days/4 nights; 60km

Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson Tasman region.

Terrain Well-marked and signposted, but some sections may be

steep and rough and the track could be muddy. There is one Medium fitness required compulsory tidal crossing.

Know before you go

Intermediate tramping track © Dept of Conservation

Check tide times for crossing Awaroa Inlet. There are 4 huts and 19 campsites along the track, which must be booked in advance year round. Get in quick as this track is very popular.

Note: 1080 operation at times; some track sections will close.

TRACK OVERVIEW On the first day, cross the Mārahau causeway and walk through coastal forest. The track turns inland and later descends into Anchorage Bay. The next day you will cross the Torrent Bay Estuary and walk through forested areas then return to the coast at Bark Bay. On the third day walk across Bark Bay estuary or follow the all-tide track. After climbing over Tonga Saddle, descend to Awaroa Inlet.

The following day, cross Awaroa Inlet (tidal) and continue along the track, alternating between sandy beaches and rocky headlands, until Whariwharangi Bay. On the last day climb the saddle overlooking the Wainui Inlet. The track goes down to the shore and follows the estuary to Wainui Bay car park.

• Abel Tasman National Park camping at its finest!

• Booking office for all Park activities • 40 hectares • Farm animals, off‑licence, river swimming, card phone • Secure car park • Wireless internet avail • Dorm/doubles & self‑contained studios

Harveys Rd, Marahau RD 2, Motueka Ph: +64 3 527 8288 • Fax: +64 3 527 8289 Email: info@oldmacs.co.nz • www.oldmacs.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO’S 63

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN 3

A lovely well-signposted loop walk with majestic views, beech forest and fascinating rock formations.

TAKAKA HILL WALKWAY

Where is it?

Start at the Tākaka Hill Summit, 32km from Tākaka Township, 147 Tākaka Hill Highway.

Terrain Tramping trails, gravel roads, farm and 4WD tracks.

No dogs

In your journey over the hill from Nelson, check out Ngārua Caves for a spot of caving and a great view over Tasman Bay. Pull off the road for a 3km stroll to Harwoods Hole – the deepest vertical shaft in New Zealand and the most dramatic and easily visited evidence of the chasms that riddle the core of Tākaka Hill. Note: do not approach the edge of the hole.

Tākaka Hill © Destination Marlborough

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS The Tasman District features a warm climate, three national parks, sumptuous scenery, a thriving arts scene and mouthwatering local delicacies – what more could you possibly want?

TRACK OVERVIEW A well-marked trail that offers great views and all sorts of botanical and geological curiosities. Sometimes it’s referred to as Marble Mountain because this is limestone country which means you’ll find all sorts of interesting shapes in the rocks. With the highest point 950m above sea level, on a clear day the views are breathtaking; looking east you’ll see out to the Tasman Mountains in Kahurangi National Park as well as across to Tākaka Valley and Golden Bay. Do remember that this track is on private land, so please be respectful.

2-3hrs; 5.1km Average fitness required Intermediate tramping track

TOP PICKS

Māpua is an essential town to visit for any food-lover. At the wharf you’ll find a collection of cafés with stunning views. It’s also home to Shed 4 that includes even more eateries, shops and a waterfront amphitheatre where there are often concerts.

Motueka has a lively café culture and two lovely national parks nearby. Rub shoulders with the locals and buy fresh produce and crafts at the Sunday market. See Te Ahurewa Māori church, built in 1897, and the waka (canoe) that used to ply the waters of the Motueka River. Check out the famous 1929 Cadillac at the district museum. The Riwaka Resurgence, where the river emerges from a marble cave into a crystal-clear pool, is great for swimming.

Just out of Tākaka lie Te Waikoropupū Springs – the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand, the largest cold-water springs in the southern hemisphere and scientifically measured to contain some of the clearest water in the world.

There’s a great loop walk which takes you around the lakes and bushland environs.

One of the longest natural sandbars in the world, Farewell Spit, this 25km arc of sand provides sanctuary for over 90 bird species.

This significant location is now protected and considered a Wetland of International Importance. Access to the spit is restricted, with public walking allowed at the base, 2.5km down the inner beach and 4km down the outer beach.

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Te Waikoropupū Springs © NelsonNZ.com LEFT: Motueka Estuary, Tasman’s Great Taste Trail © Chocolate Dog Studio

4

One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Heaphy Track is very popular and all huts must be booked in advance especially from late October to late April.

HEAPHY TRACK

From forest to coast, this track combines all of New Zealand’s scenic beauty into one Great Walk.

Set off from Golden Bay and travel through expansive tussock downs, lush forests and nīkau palms to the roaring seas of the wild West Coast.

This is the Kahurangi National Park’s most famous and most accessible walk, and there are plenty of reasons for its popularity.

Heaphy Track © Dept of Conservation

4 days/3 nights; 78.4km Medium fitness required Intermediate tramping track

Where is it?

Kahurangi National Park, Nelson Tasman and West Coast regions.

Terrain Well-formed and well-marked track. All major stream and river crossings are bridged.

Good to know 1080 operation at times; some track sections will close. Check current alerts.

See huge podocarps and giant northern rātā in the lowland forest, a huge variety of alpine and subalpine species on the Gouland Downs, and karaka, ngaio and nīkau palms in the coastal forest.

Kahurangi National Park is home to an abundance of native birds. Keep an eye out for weka, tūī, kererū, kea and kākā – they can all be found along the way.

From 1 May to 30 November every year you can mountain bike this track. It takes two-to-three days to ride, and riding from Aorere to Karamea is the most popular.

TRACK OVERVIEW One end of the track is near Collingwood, Golden Bay. The first dayNo starts at Brown Hut. dogs Hike up to Aorere Shelter and enjoy views over the valley. The viewpoint at Flanaghans Corner is the highest point (915m).

On the next day you’ll walk through areas of tussock and beech trees. Enjoy the expansive tussocklands of Gouland Downs and views of the Tasman Sea and Heaphy River.

On the third day, descend to the Heaphy River then continue through native forest.

Approaching the river mouth, there are more nīkau palms and the sound of the ocean on the wild West Coast.

On the last day follow the track along the rugged coastline and pass through native forests.

Pass Crayfish Point (tidal) and rest at Scotts Beach. Climb over Kohaihai Bluff and continue along by the river until the Kohaihai car park (near Karamea, north of Westport)

Tasman St, Collingwood, Golden Bay

• Farewell Spit is a nature reserve and world-renowned www.farewellspit.com bird sanctuary.

Phone: +64 3 524 8257 Email: enquiries@farewellspit.co.nz Farewell Spit Tours

• On our tours you’ll visit the historic lighthouse, take in the panorama from the top of one of the 100ft-high dunes & see old fossils exposed on the beach.

RESERVATIONS:

0800 808 257 www.ngaruacaves.co.nz

Friendly Camp IN THE HEART of Collingwood

Collingwood Holiday Park

A Middle Earth Experience

COLLINGWOOD HOLIDAY PARK Cabins and camping options Toilet/shower & laundry facilities • Internet access Equipped kitchens and TV room Tennis courts • Recycling • P ­ ets by arrangement only

6 William Street, Collingwood 7073 • Golden Bay • E: info@collingwoodholidaypark.co.nz

BOOK NOW: www.collingwoodholidaypark.co.nz • P: 03 524 8149

Ph: +64 3 528 8093 • ngaruacaves@gmail.com

WALKING MUST-DO’S 65

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN

QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK 5

6

LAKE CHALICE HUT WALK

Lake Chalice is the only lake in the Mt Richmond Forest Park and this delightful, not too challenging walk is excellent for children and novice hikers.

Where is it?

Staircase Rd, Mt Richmond Forest Park, Marlborough Region.

Terrain Well-maintained tramping tracks, sometimes steep and rocky.

Take care Wasps can be a bit of a problem, with the worst time of year between December and April. Sandflies can also be an issue.

Good to know Forestry operations can close roads – Goulter Rd closed during the weekends.

© Destination Marlborough

A classic New Zealand walk, featuring coastal marvels, pristine bush and plenty of birdlife plus top accommodation in lodges.

Where is it?

In Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. Most people start at Meretoto, Ship Cove and head to Mistletoe Bay in Anakiwa, although you can do it in either direction.

Terrain Well-formed tracks, steep, rough and muddy in some places. All major stream and river crossings have bridges.

Pedal power This trail is also the 21st Great Ride of Nga Haerenga, The NZ Cycle Trail, although cycling is not permitted during the busy summer season from December 1 to February 28.

No dogs

3-5 days one way; 71km Intermediate fitness required Some climbing 66

TRACK OVERVIEW Have a boat drop you off at Ship Cove and, once you’ve explored this historic site and enjoyed the interpretation panels, set off through bush and admire the beech forest.

After just 50min, you’ll be greeted by a stunning view across Queen Charlotte Sound before starting your descent into Resolution Bay and the Department of Conservation’s Schoolhouse Bay campsite. From here it’s another three hours to Endeavour Inlet, partially following the shore, before another four hours brings you to Camp Bay Campsite.

Pressing on to Torea Saddle, this is the most challenging portion, but the view from the ridge will see all your cares evaporate. Onwards to Mistletoe Bay, about four hours from Torea Saddle, then another four hours sees you pop out in Anakiwa. Here there’s a jetty, so you can arrange water transport to whisk you back to wherever you want to go to next.

In Blenheim, devour gourmet delights and take your pick from a feast of sights and attractions. Don’t leave without trying Marlborough’s sauvignon blanc, which put New Zealand wine in the international spotlight. The town centre is a haven of contemporary stores, antique shops, galleries, charming cafés and restaurants and sunny, open spaces.

TRACK OVERVIEW Leaving the car park you’ll go down a steep track through forest and bush to the hut which is found at the eastern end of the peaceful two kilometrelong alpine lake. The hut has eight beds which are available on a first come, first served basis.

Once at the hut, having claimed your bunk space, the loop around this beautiful body of water makes for a charming walk; it will take about two hours to complete your circumnavigation. There is a fireplace at the hut which is most welcome on cooler nights and if the skies are clear the stargazing is amazing.

Access for dogs with DOC permit only

1hr to hut; 2.6km Medium fitness required Sometimes steep and rocky

TOP PICKS

© Destination Marlborough

The Wither Hills Farm Park’s rolling hills are a Blenheim landmark.

This 1100ha working farm park includes a network of walking and biking tracks leading to lookouts over the surrounding area.

MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS One of the country’s most prized gems, the Marlborough Sounds account for a whopping onefifth of New Zealand’s total coastline. The Sounds are ancient hills draped in lush rainforest that roll down to the Pacific Ocean, lined by a maze of sheltered whitesand bays and inlets. Seals, penguins and rare sea birds live here, and dolphins and orcas regularly pass through.

7

LAKE ROTOITI CIRCUIT

A spectacular walk that can be done in a day if you employ the services of a water taxi, or stay overnight in one of the huts.

Where is it?

Start from Kerr Bay, on Lake Rotoiti near St Arnaud.

Terrain Bush tracks, some of them challenging, muddy after rain.

Still waters Along the way you’ll see a sign for Whiskey Falls, named for an illicit still found there in the 1880s. This requires a short detour but is worth it if time is on your side.

7-10 hr loop track; 23-31km loop track Strong fitness required Advanced tramping track No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW Your walk begins at Kerr Bay, where you’ll also find information panels telling you everything you need to know to tackle this walk. Following the markers, head along the eastern side of the lake which is fringed with mountains, notably majestic 1421m Pōrangahau (Mt Robert). Bird fanciers will stop to admire everything from korimako/bellbirds, pīwakawaka/fantails, toutouwai/ robins and titipounamu/rifleman. Little spotted kiwi are also resident around here. After about three hours of walking through beautiful bush and beech forest and having crossed a couple of streams, you’ll arrive at Lake Head Jetty.

20 minutes later you’ll find Lake Head Hut, which isn’t far from a picturesque swing bridge. Follow the markers to Travers River, then join up with Lower Travers Valley Track which will take you to Coldwater Hut. This section is more challenging, with a steady and relatively steep climb heading away from the lake before reaching a gravel road which goes to West Bay. Joining the Peninsula Nature Walk, the trails become easier, until it reaches the western end of Kerr Bay, back where you started.

© NelsonNZ.com

Matakitaki Valley, Nelson © NelsonNZ.com

8

SPEARGRASS TRACK

A pleasant short walk that is ideal for a day trip or an overnight adventure.

Where is it?

Set off from the car park at Mt Robert Rd, a short drive from St Arnaud on SH 63.

Terrain Well-graded tramping tracks, mostly flat except for a climb at either end No dogs

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS Nelson Lakes National Park, at the head of the Southern Alps, features majestic mountain ranges and the breathtaking lakes of Rotoiti and Rotoroa at its heart. Murchison, gateway to the southern entrance of the Kahurangi National Park, is famous for its white-water rafting and the Buller Gorge Swingbridge, New Zealand’s longest.

Beware of wasps (at their worst December to April) and sandflies, both a nuisance here.

Pack repellent and antihistamine if allergic.

Serene St Arnaud is a beautiful alpine village on the edge of Lake Rotoiti. It’s an ideal base for those who want to explore the Nelson Lakes National Park and the Travers Sabine Circuit, a challenging but rewarding walk.

Activities in the area include mountaineering, snow sports at Rainbow Ski Field, water skiing, kayaking, boating and fishing on lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa. Head to the DOC Visitor Centre to learn about the honeydew beech forest and to join a guided walk.

2.5hr each way; 7.4km Intermediate fitness required Easy to intermediate tramping track

TRACK OVERVIEW Make your way down from the car park, and follow the river for a decent chunk of the walk before beginning your climb to the hut; you’ll know when you’re close to your destination when you cross the sturdy bridge over Te Horowai/ Speargrass Creek.

The track is largely flat although do expect a bit of uphill work at either end. When you arrive at Speargrass Hut you’ll find a very cosy doubleglazed well-insulated 12-bunk hut. It’s serviced, there are mattresses and a wood burner for heating.

Operating on a first come first served basis, you can also camp out the front on the pretty grassy clearing if you’d rather. Very peaceful.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 67

WEST COAST

Walking in the West Coast Nature is in its element on the West Coast. The land is treasured; there’s more protected land here than in any other part of the country.

ABOVE: Lake Matheson © Stewart Nimmo RIGHT: Charming Creek © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ MIDDLE RIGHT: Franz Josef Glacier © Petr Hlavacek FAR RIGHT: Punakāiki © Petr Hlavacek

68

njoy the remoteness

It’s hardly surprising that walking is

with State Highway 6 being the

and absorb the

one of the most popular pursuits

main coastal route since the gold-

natural delights of lush

here, along with river journeys,

mining days, so there are endless

rainforest, clean rivers and lakes,

exploring local wildlife and

opportunities to explore the rich

native wildlife, rugged beaches and

immersing yourself in the region’s

heritage of this region,

some of the world’s most accessible

golden history. The past is never far

New Zealand’s pioneer frontier.

glaciers.

from daily life along this coastline,

E

Karamea

WALKS 1

OPARARA ARCH WALK

2

CHARMING CREEK WALKWAY

3

CAPE FOULWIND WALKWAY

4

TRUMAN TRACK

5

PAPAROA TRACK & PIKE 29 MEMORIAL TRACK

6

HOKITIKA GORGE WALK

7

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER WALK

8

LAKE MATHESON WALK

1

Karamea Bight

2

6

3

Westport

6

Inangahua

6 Charleston

69

4 6

Reefton

5

Maruia

7

Victoria Forest Park Ikamatua

Barrytown

Blackball

Nelson Lakes National Park

65

Paparoa National Park

Punakāiki

63

Murchison

Denniston

Ahaura

7

GREYMOUTH Hanmer Forest Park Moana

6 Hokitika

Lake Brunner

Lake Sumner Forest Park

Kumara

73

Inchbonnie Craigieburn Forest Park

Kokatahi

Arthur’s Pass

6

Otira Arthur’s Pass National Park

73 Korowai-Torlesse Tussocklands Park Harihari Castle Hill

6 Ōkārito Franz Josef Glacier

8

Rangiora

7

Whataroa Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Fox Glacier

Kaiapoi Mt Hutt

77 Windwhistle

Karangarua Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

CHRISTCHURCH

Darfield Rolleston

WEST COAST HIGHLIGHTS • Oparara Basin's labyrinth of limestone caves • Buller Gorge, best seen by 110m swingbridge • Pancake Rocks and Blowhole, Punakāiki • The dynamic Franz Josef and Fox glaciers • Lake Matheson's famously perfect reflection • Ōkārito Lagoon: wonderful wetland wilderness • Karamea: splendid isolation at the road's end • Westport's adventure, arts and mining history • Haast's UNESCO World Heritage surrounds

• Tauranga Bay Seal Colony • The historic town of Reefton's old-world charm • Shantytown, replica of an 1860s gold town • Character-filled Greymouth: activities galore • TranzAlpine, one of the world's best train trips • The West Coast Treetop Walkway • Lake Brunner: water playground • Arthur's Pass, a beautiful mountainous park • Hokitika – cool arts vibe and stunning scenery

WALKING MUST-DO'S 69

WEST COAST 1

TRACK OVERVIEW

OPARARA ARCH WALK

A great little walk for people of all ages. Choose the left track just before you reach the Oparara Bridge and the track will take you along the river, through beech and podocarp forest and then dense native bush, eventually arriving at phenomenal limestone outcrops. In a short time you’ll reach the impressive limestone Oparara Arch, thought to be the largest of its kind in Australasia.

Featuring exquisite shapes and colours, when the light is right, this place is heaven for painters and photographers.

No dogs Oparara Arch © Tourism New Zealand

An easy yet breathtaking walk to an impressive limestone arch, one of several short walks in the area.

Where is it?

Need to know

McCallums Mill Rd, 25km north of Karamea.

McCallums Mill Rd is narrow and steep with a gravel surface, so large vehicles and campervans are not permitted. Maximum height restriction of 2.8m.

1080 operation at times, some sections may close. Check alerts.

Terrain Well-formed easy tramping track.

Under an hour; 2km return Basic fitness required Easy tramping track

www.karameahotel.co.nz

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS

Creature features The rare whio (blue duck) is known to frequent this area.

Being strong swimmers they seek out fast-flowing clean waters to set up their nests.

This area is also home to the Powelliphanta, a giant carnivorous snail which can grow up to 7cm across.

Karamea stream © West Coast Tourism

Karamea exists in splendid isolation at the end of the road, beautifully positioned between the Kahurangi National Park and the Tasman Sea. It's a haven for cavers, birdwatchers and hunters as well as mountain bikers, adventurous kayakers and rafters. Take an eco tour into the labyrinth of limestone caves at Oparara Basin and discover the Moria Gate Arches and the Honeycomb Hill Caves, which contain moa bones. Granity, Ngākawau and Hector are charming seaside villages that are a mix of museums, artist studios, early mining cottages and holiday homes. Further north, Little Wanganui is popular during the whitebait season and expert surfers head here for the beach break.

Karamea Village Hotel • Authentic Country Hotel • 9 separate motel units and 3-brm Tourist Flat • Lots of short walks to beach and river • Fabulous home-cooked meals – we are famous for whitebait • Located in the heart of Karamea • Tariff from $120

GSRT[ ` Cnr Waverley St & Wharf Rd, Karamea • P: +64 3 782 6800 F: +64 3 782 6800 • E: karameahotel@xtra.co.nz

70

Friendly West Coast hospitality Numerous accommodation options to suit all budgets Restaurant & bar facilities Campsites both powered or non-powered Gateway to the Kahurangi National Park Central to both Wangapeka & The Heaphy tracks, The Old Ghost Road & Little Wanganui River Black and Grey water stations Tariff $15-$120 for 2 people A: 3296 Karamea Highway RD 3 Karamea 7893 P: +64 3 782 6752 • E: info@littlewanganuihotel.co.nz

www.littlewanganuihotel.co.nz

2

TRACK OVERVIEW

CHARMING CREEK WALKWAY

Ngākawau track end to Watson’s Mill (3.5km; 1hr 15min one-way): The track starts with an easy 30min walk to an area where bins historically used for transporting timber and coal can be seen. From here the track enters the Lower Ngākawau Gorge and follows on to the suspension bridge, where you can admire views up and down the gorge. The impressive Mangatini Falls are visible from the track beyond the bridge. A 50m tunnel leads to a section of track called the Verandah with brilliant views of the river and Upper Ngākawau Gorge. The track then leads to the river flats of Charming Creek and the historic site of Watson’s Mill.

Watson’s Mill to the historic Charming Creek mine entrance/car park (6km; 1hr 45min one-way): From Watson’s Mill follow the old railway tracks through old cutover and farm paddocks to Mumm’s Mill site.

The track then leads onto the old Charming Creek mine entrance and car park. Charming Creek Walkway is made up of two sections and can be walked in either direction. Low-tomoderate fitness is required on this undulating track.

© Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

Scenery and history combine as you walk along an historic bush tramway through the lower Ngākawau Gorge and the Charming Creek valley to the abandoned Charming Creek Coal Mine, passing historic saw milling and mining remains. Enjoy the views from the suspension bridge and carry on to the stunning Mangatini Falls.

Where is it?

There are two points of access to the walkway. The southern end is clearly signposted from SH 67 at Ngākawau, 35km northeast of Westport. From the north, access is through Seddonville, 50km northeast of Westport on SH 67, and 10km along a gravel road to the walkway entrance at the abandoned Charming Creek mine site. The track can be walked in either direction. Contact Westport i-SITE Visitor Centre on 03 789 6658 to arrange transport to and from the track ends.

Access 2,000 discounts across NZ & Australia.

Access for dogs on lead only

Weka

2.3hr one way; 9.5km one way Low-moderate fitness required Undulating trail

© Department of Conservation

Curious and cheeky, weka may wander over to say hello particularly if you have a picnic.

Remember to never feed any birds or other wildlife.

www.yha.co.nz WALKING MUST-DO'S 71

WEST COAST This spectacular coastal walkway features a seal colony, a lighthouse and panoramic views of mountains and coastline.

CAPE FOULWIND WALKWAY 3

Panels along the track tell stories of Māori history, sea voyages and early explorers.

From the seal colony, a longer walking track leads to Cape Foulwind lighthouse.

Return the same way or arrange transport from Cape Foulwind car park.

Where is it?

This is one of very few spots that you can visit the rookery of kekeno – the New Zealand fur seal.

Seal Colony © Buller Promotion Association

© Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

1hr; 2.9km one way (car park to seal colony 30min, 1km return) Low-moderate fitness required Flat/undulating track

Reservation Freephone: 0800

500 209

The track is about 16km southwest of Westport. Follow Cape Foulwind Rd (SH 67A) for 11km to the former Holcim cement works. Turn left into Tauranga Bay Rd to access the Tauranga Bay car park (southern end). For visitors doing the longer walk, which includes the seal colony and the lighthouse, there is access from Cape Foulwind lighthouse car park (northern end).

Need to know The walk is one-way and you'll need to arrange transport from Cape Foulwind car park or return along the same walkway. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather on this coastal walk; carry a weatherproof or windproof jacket, hat and gloves.

Pancake Rocks walkway © Fraser Clements/Tourism NZ

Access for dogs with on lead only

PANCAKE ROCKS A natural phenomenon 30 million years in the making, Punakāiki Pancake Rocks is the West Coast’s most visited natural attraction. These rocks have undergone a weathering process that has formed them, over time, into what truly look like great, thick pancakes.

Northern gateway to the scenic West Coast • Quiet, Clean and Spacious • Bike Cleaning Station • Lockable Bike Storage • Shuttle by Arrangement Only • Group Booking Discount • Undercover BBQ Area • FREE WiFi Tariff: from $135 (2 persons, extra $20)

The Esplanade, Westport Ph: +64 3 789 7519 • Email: bullerbridgemotel@xtra.co.nz BOOK DIRECT: www.bullerbridgemotel.co.nz

www.palmcourtwestport.co.nz

TRACK OVERVIEW Starting at the southern end of the walkway, a short walk from the Tauranga Bay car park takes you along the fully wheelchairaccessible path to the viewpoint overlooking the Tauranga Bay seal colony. You can then return to the Tauranga Bay car park or continue the walking track over undulating farmland with an occasional stile over fences to the Cape Foulwind lighthouse and car park. From the viewing platform near the lighthouse, you will enjoy panoramic views of the Paparoa Range and Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana and along the western coastline, both north and south.

WESTPORT MOTELS Reservations: 0800 805 909

Reservations: 0800 472 567 306 Palmerston St, Westport Phone/Fax: +64 3 789 7247 Email: palmcourtwpt@xtra.co.nz

• Sunny location • Walk to shops • Motorcycle & cycle friendly • Free WiFi • Tariff: from $115 (2 persons), extra $15 Email:tourists palmcourtwpt@xtra.co.nz • Reservations: Well-travelled say “the best motel we’ve stayed at” 0800 472 567

72

17 fully self-contained studio, 1 & 2-brm units. Quiet peaceful location adjacent Buller River Reserve & Millennium Walk.

Easy walk to Westport cafés & restaurants. Unlimited Free WiFi. Affordable Rates.

32 Esplanade, Westport P: +64 3 789 7575 E: westportmotel @xtra.co.nz Book Direct for Best Price: www.westportmotel.co.nz

4

TRACK OVERVIEW

TRUMAN TRACK

The short but delightful Truman Track takes walkers through pristine subtropical forest where flourishing stands of rātā loom above the path and nīkau palms are found. If the forest alone wasn’t pretty enough, eventually you will pop out on to the fabulous cliff-lined coast with caves, a blowhole and a waterfall that thunders onto a rocky beach. Go down the stairway to gain access to the beach, but know this is a very boisterous coastline so keep your wits about you as you explore.

And be respectful of the wildlife; you’ll see all sorts down here from petrels to fur seals, weka to hectors dolphins and, when the kōwhai are in flower, the birds flock to this neck of the woods. If it’s low tide and you’ve time to explore the rock pools, look out for the magnificent starfish who also live here.

With forest trails and coastal views, this is an easy West Coast walk with excellent information panels

Where is it?

From SH 6, the track starts 3km north of the Paparoa National Park Visitor Centre in Punakāiki.

Terrain Well-formed and maintained paths No dogs

30min; 1.4km return Basic fitness required Easy walking track

Luxuriant coastal forest, limestone cliffs and canyons, caves and underground streams, and an absolutely spectacular coastline are all packed into the Paparoa National Park, accessible via a number of walks ranging in length.

Paparoa National Park © Les Molloy / DOC

Paparoa Track © Stewart Nimmo

5

PAPAROA TRACK & PIKE 29 MEMORIAL TRACK TRACK OVERVIEW

Day 1: Beginning near Blackball on the existing Croesus Track, with remnants of the area’s gold-mining history, the track ascends through beech and podocarp forest before crossing alpine scrub and tussock.

You’ll be rewarded with expansive views of Grey River to the east and the Tasman Sea to the west.

Day 2: Open tops give way to alpine forest stunted by the harsh environment. Continue along the escarpment where the landscape is strikingly dramatic with sheer drops and stunning views down

Opening in December 2019, this Great Walk crosses the Paparoa Range. It takes you through alpine tops, limestone karst landscapes and thriving rainforests, and provides breathtaking views.

Where is it?

The track runs from Blackball on the eastern side of the Paparoa Range to Punakāiki on the western side.

No dogs

2-3 days one way; 55km one way Moderate fitness required Some steep sections

the Pike Stream in the east, west to Punakāiki and northwest to Westport. After descending, walk through ancient podocarp forest under towering cliffs.

Day 3: Hike down into the upper Pororari River valley. The track sidles a spectacular gorge and descend towards the coast through beech forest interspersed with northern rātā. Experience the lower gorge with its limestone cliffs; and pass through lush rainforest with glades of nīkau palms. The track ends near Punakāiki.

Greymouth i-SITE Visitor Centre

Greymouth i-SITE Visitor Centre is your local Greymouth DOC agent and a one stop shop for all your bookings. Ask the local experts about the new Paparoa Great Walk!

• Great Walk bookings • Hut passes • Accommodation Bookings • Shuttle Transfers

• Car Transfers • Bike Hire • Free information and booking service • Free maps, guides and brochures

Contact the team today to enquire, 0800 GREYMOUTH or email info@westcoasttravel.co.nz or visit our website www.westcoasttravel.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO'S 73

WEST COAST

HOKITIKA GORGE WALK 6

A great little leg stretcher for those driving around the South Island’s dramatic West Coast.

TRACK OVERVIEW The walking track starts at the car park and, after the first few steps, you’ll find yourself in a cool and impressive podocarp forest .Very soon, you’ll pop out onto the viewing platform. When you look down the magnificent Hokitika Gorge, you’ll see how powerfully water carves its way through the land, capable of creating impressive gorges like this one. Up to this point, the track is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. From here, go another short distance along elegantly constructed board walks until you reach a swing bridge for a glimpse of the turquoise waters of the Hokitika River flowing through the gorge. For more views, cross the swing bridge to another platform providing more stunning vistas.

Where is it?

Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve, Whitcombe Valley Rd, 33km east of Hokitika.

Terrain Boardwalks, bush tracks, well maintained.

No dogs

Hokitika is a small town with a classic West Coast beach awash with driftwood.

Its beauty extends inland to freshwater lakes and unspoilt bush. Climb the Hokitika Tower 40m above the forest for a bird's-eye view, visit the National Kiwi Centre to see the endangered rowi kiwi, fossick for greenstone, bike the waterfront, visit the glowworm dell and take a waterway cruise of the Mahinapua Scenic Reserve.

© West Coast Tourism

30min return; 650m each way Basic fitness required Easy tramping track

Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the West Coast with our local Māori kaiarahi (guides). Learn about Māori history and values.

Our Tupuna (ancestors) were the first kaiarahi in this region. We continue this tradition today.

Come hīkoi (walk) with us, in the footsteps of our tupuna.

Rauhine Coakley 021 189 0913

westcoastguidedwalks.nz hikoi.waewae@gmail.com

Beachfront Accommodation

An exhilarating treetop adventure among temperate rainforest giants.

Experience life with birds high in the ancient rimu and kamahi tree canopy.

Easy access for all to enjoy along a steel platform 20 metres high and over 450 metres long. Come and enjoy a leisurely 45-minute to one-hour stroll.

• Direct Beach Access • Opposite Glowworm Dell

Freephone: 0508 TREETOPS www.treetopsnz.com 1128 Woodstock-Rimu Rd, Hokitika RD 3 • 15 minutes south of Hokitika Email: bookings@treetopsnz.com

OFF

$5

Expires: Sep 2020

74

• Small Farmyard with Animals

16 Richards Drive, Hokitika Email: shining@xtra.co.nz

Conditions: This voucher entitles the bearer to $5 off the entry and all-day passes. Not valid with any other discount deals or special offers. (AA)

MOTELS & HOLIDAY PARK

0800 744 646

• Apartments, Chalets, Cabins, Powered and Non-Powered Sites • Free WiFi

www.shiningstar.co.nz

8

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER WALK

© Photographer

7

LAKE MATHESON WALK

A gentle walk through native forest leads to the picturesque shore of Lake Matheson, with Aoraki Mt Cook brilliantly reflected in its waters. The lake was formed when Fox Glacier retreated from its last significant advance about 14,000 years ago. During the last major ice age, the glacier spread across the coastal plains towards the sea, dumping huge piles of rock. It ground a depression which later filled with water, forming the lake.

Where is it?

From Fox Glacier township, turn onto Cook Flat Rd. Travel 5km then turn right onto the side-road to Lake Matheson.

No dogs

Franz Josef Glacier walk © Getty Images

The Franz Josef Glacier is a unique and awe-inspiring sight, and it’s easily accessible via this rocky riverbed path to a viewing area.

Where is it?

Head south from the Franz Josef township then turn left onto Glacier Access Rd. The walk starts from the car park at the end of the road.

No dogs

This is a beautiful yet dangerous place that is sometimes closed due to hazardous conditions, so check it's open before you start at www.doc.govt.nz

Car park to jetty 40min; 1km return Lake Circuit 1.5hr; 2.6km return Low fitness required Easy walking with some undulations

TRACK OVERVIEW The first section to Jetty Viewpoint is suitable for assisted wheelchairs. After crossing the Clearwater suspension bridge, the walk leads past tall kahikatea and rimu as well as a rich profusion of smaller plants. The jetty provides a magnificent mountain view reflected in the dark waters. From Jetty Viewpoint, continue further around the lake and you'll find a similarly magnificent mountain reflection shrouded in native foliage at the ‘View of Views’ at the top end of the lake, and again at Reflection Island. Always take warm and waterproof clothing as the weather can change rapidly. Overnight camping is not permitted in or near the car park. Drones are not permitted.

1hr 30min return; 5.4km Low fitness required Easy walking track

TRACK OVERVIEW The first 15 minutes is an easy (fully accessible) forest walk from the car park to a river bank view of the glacier. It then follows markers in the riverbed past Trident Falls to a point close to the terminal face of the glacier. This is not a track but a route over the shingle and rock of the riverbed and it can be quite rough underfoot – make sure you have suitable footwear. The final section of track to the safety barriers includes a short climb to the viewing area. Do not go past the barriers and pay attention to all signage as areas of the valley are hazardous and are not safe for visitors. The glacier is constantly moving. Ice and rock fall from the terminal face without warning. Creeks may rise up to a metre in even moderate rain. Water levels rise in as little as 15 minutes.

FRANZ JOSEF & FOX GLACIERS Although 140 glaciers flow from the Southern Alps, only the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers reach the lower rainforests. These huge tongues of ice cut through valleys and temperate rainforest to just 270m above sea level, creating a natural wonder right on our doorstep. There is a range of walks, guided glacier hikes and climbing experiences.

• Bordered by Mt Aspiring World Heritage National Park.

• Accommodation, petrol, store, café, internet in café available.

• Standalone ‘A-frame’ chalets.

• ‘Back-to-nature’ feel, bird life & scenery.

• Ideal family retreat. Summer pool.

• Closest accommodation to Blue Pools (8km).

• Many other hiking & day walks close by.

• DOC info centre next door.

P: +64 3 443 8372 • Reservations: 0800 800 443 www.makarora.co.nz • E: info@makarora.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO'S 75

CANTERBURY

Walking in Canterbury

In Canterbury, rural meets high country meets big mountains meets even bigger skies. Bright-blue braided rivers cross the land, picturesque bays and villages line the coast, wildlife flourishes, world-class wine is produced and magical lakes abound. What better place to lace up your walking shoes?

From Mt Somers to Rākaia to

Mackenzie Basin. To best appreciate

Methven and Ashburton, the long

this area’s immense beauty,

TOP: Hooker Valley © Dept of Conservation RIGHT: Kura Tāwhiti access © Shellie Evans OPPOSITE: Lake Pūkaki © christchurchnz.org.nz

plains and snow-capped mountains

choosing one of the many walks

of mid-Canterbury are largely off

here is essential, as is observing the

the well trodden tourist path, but its

dazzling night sky.

T

he pretty little coastal

The Waipara Valley is best

town of Kaikōura is a

known for its exquisitely spicy

wildlife lovers dream

and rich pinot noir and riesling.

natural beauty is immense. Winter here means skiing at Mt Hutt, and warmer weather is ideal for taking

Banks Peninsula, 90 minutes from Christchurch, is a popular day-trip destination for its brilliant

destination, where sperm whales,

Its magnificent setting in the

dusky dolphins, fur seals and royal

Teviotdale Hills is matched by its

albatrosses can be found. Get

equally impressive wine offerings.

off the grid and discover the land

Combine a walk here with a spot of The Mackenzie Country is a place that’s mesmerising in all four wine-tasting – cheers to that!

French-influenced seaside village of

seasons and all types of weather.

mainland penguin colony, check out

If it’s truly magical scenery you’re

the mosaic and sculpture garden,

after, the turquoise Lake Tekapō

enjoy the boutique cinema or just

will oblige. It’s here that the Mt John

relax at one of the many fabulous

Observatory was built due to the

cafés and restaurants here.

here: explore back-country farm roads, wander along a black pebble beach and walk the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway to observe seals and seabirds, explore historic pā and enjoy sensational clifftop views.

76

The Waimakariri district is an urban/rural paradise, with unspoiled rivers, beaches and forests right on Christchurch’s doorstep.

on the numerous hiking options or a magical hot-air balloon ride.

clarity of the night skies above the

walks along the extinct volcano that forms the peninsula, and the Akaroa. Swim with dolphins, visit the

Nelson Lakes National Park Reefton

Clarence

Maruia

Barrytown

7

Rai Valley Kaikōura

GREYMOUTH

6

Hanmer Forest Park

Moana

Hokitika

2 7

73

Culverden

Arthur’s Pass National Park

6

Lake Coleridge

6

Korowai-Torlesse Tussocklands Park

Rangiora

Mt Taylor

6

Darfield

Windwhistle Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Lake Tekapo Lake Pukaki

80

1

Lake Ohau

75

Temuka

Twizel

WALKS

8 TIMARU

8

Lake Benmore

83

1

Ōtematata

Duntroon

Akaroa

Canterbury Bight

Orari

79

Ohau

Kurow

4

Geraldine

8

8

Lincoln

ASHBURTON

7

Tekapō

3

Rolleston

Methven

Mt Somers

CHRISTCHURCH

73

77

Aoraki Mt Cook

Pegasus Bay Kaiapoi

Mt Hutt

Fox Glacier

8

Amberley

Castle Hill

Franz Josef Glacier

Cheviot

1

Craigieburn Forest Park

Ōkārito

Ōmarama

5

Arthur’s Pass

Harihari

1 Hanmer Springs

1

KAIKŌURA PENINSULA WALKWAY

5

DEVIL’S PUNCHBOWL WALKING TRACK

2

MT ISOBEL TRACK

6

KURA TĀWHITI ACCESS TRACK

3

AWAROA/GODLEY HEAD LOOP TRACK

7

PEEL FOREST PARK SCENIC RESERVE WALKS

4

ROUND THE MOUNTAIN VIA CURRY TRACK

Waimate

82 Glenavy

8

CAROLINE BAY, TIMARU BOTANIC GARDENS & CENTENNIAL PARK WALKS

CANTERBURY HIGHLIGHTS • Many walks in the Lake Tekapō area provide

national park of the same name, glaciers and

incredible views of the lake and surrounding

brilliantly coloured lakes fringed with tussock

mountains. The Lake Tekapō Walkway

abound. Walking tracks are everywhere,

wanders along the lakefront to the Church

ranging from alpine adventures for the

of the Good Shepherd. Cowans Hill Walkway

experienced to short, accessible walks – rest

is relatively easy with lovely views of the

assured the scenery is spectacular no matter

lake and Motuariki Island. Mt John Summit

which option you choose.

Track circles around Mt John with stunning views of Lake Tekapō, Lake Alexandrina, the Mackenzie Basin and the Southern Alps.

• This iconic peak is the snapshot of the south.

Its name, Aoraki, means ‘cloud piercer’ – it’s New Zealand’s tallest peak at 3724m. In the

• Vibrant, resilient and ever-evolving Christchurch is at the heart of this diverse region and a gateway to a natural backyard at its very finest. Before you head out and get lost in Canterbury’s vast beauty, enjoy getting to know this charming city.

The high country around the Southern Alps is famously beautiful – to say it’s stunning doesn’t even begin to do it justice. Do not forget your camera!

WALKING MUST-DO’S 77

CANTERBURY

KAIKOURA PENINSULA WALKWAY 1

New coastal formations post-earthquake at Kaikōura Peninsula © Destination Kaikōura

TRACK OVERVIEW Start in the centre of town and head towards The Esplanade and Point Kean car park. Along the way make time to stop and read the interpretation panels which tell the stories of the area’s vibrant history.

Travel across the peninsula’s cliff tops, where the views over to the Kaikōura Ranges and along the coast to South Bay are spectacular.

Near historic Fyffe House learn about the significance of this area for both Māori and colonial settlers.

The viewpoint at Point Kean is designed to represent a waka and the views there are excellent, also. This is a good place to see birdlife, from oyster catchers to reef herons and possibly even little blue penguins. Continue on to Whalers Bay viewpoint and learn how the forest would have looked thousands of years ago. From Whalers Bay proceed to South Bay viewpoint and the burgeoning colony of Hutton’s shearwaters, then continue towards the town centre via Scarborough St, and follow Tom’s Track back to The Esplanade. A delightful and educational walk for all ages.

Seals and seabirds, pā sites and mountain views, dramatic scenery from one end to the other.

Where is it?

In Kaikōura, on the northeast of the South Island.

Terrain Easy walking tracks.

Need to know Be wary of the seals in the Kean Point car park as males can be territorial.

What a legend It’s said that when Maui fished the North Island out of the ocean, he used the Kaikōura Peninsula to brace himself.

No dogs

5min-3hr; 200m-11.7km Basic fitness required Easy walking

ANCHOR INN MOTEL KAIKOURA

Fully self-contained comfort on the Esplanade • Waterfront location with outdoor seating at every room for magnificent ocean and mountain views • FREE WiFi • 50+ Sky Channels • TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2011-2018

208 Esplanade | Kaikoura | New Zealand Email: info@anchorinn.co.nz

2011-2018

Book Online: www.anchorinn.co.nz

Reservations Freephone: 0800 72 00 33

donegal house the irish hotel in the country

Reservations Freephone: 0800 346 873

© Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

Voted The Best Irish Hotel 2017/2018/2019 To Picton (2hrs) SCHOOLHOUSE RD

To Christchurch

78

BREAKFAST INCLUDED Schoolhouse Rd, (3km N of Kaikoura), Kaikoura Ph/Fax: +64 3 319 5083 • Host: Murray Boyd E: donegalhouse@xtra.co.nz BOOK DIRECT FOR BEST PRICE:

www.donegalhouse.co.nz

ACCOMMODATION 27 ensuite rooms. Free Wifi. Tariff: $140 (single), $180 (double/twin) $220 (family) Continental breakfast included.

HANMER SPRINGS THERMAL POOLS & SPA

CAMPERVAN & MOTORHOME PARK 30 powered sites & 45 non-powered sites. Free overnight parking for self-contained motorhomes

Relax, unwind and indulge at this multiple New Zealand tourism award-winner. This is one of the best outdoor thermal retreats you’ll find anywhere, where you can enjoy heavenly natural thermal water amidst pure mountain air. The spa provides the perfect pampering package with massages and beauty treatments.

GARDENS & LAKES 2.4 hectares of tranquil gardens, lawns, lakes, & large courtyard.

New: children’s playground.

BAR Rural Irish hospitality - the best of Irish music & 2 huge open fires; DVD screens RESTAURANT Open for lunch & dinner.

2

MT ISOBEL TRACK

LEWIS PASS MOTELS

Described as the most climbed mountain in Canterbury. If you’re in the region, you can hike it and find out why.

Where is it?

Towering above Hanmer Springs Village, in the Canterbury region, 133km from Christchurch.

Terrain

• On edge of Lewis Pass National Reserve.

Close to St James Walkway. East/West Bus passes daily (drop off at St James Walkway with prior arrangement).

• Relaxing farm surroundings.

3 modern, self-contained units: 1 studio & 2 family units.

• Handy to hot pools & walking distance to Lake Daniels Track.

• Tariff: $130-$140 (2 persons), $20 extra person, $20 extra child.

Access for dogs on lead only

5hr; 7km

Bush path, alpine trails some scree.

Good to know In the winter it can snow up here and the exposed areas can be very windy, so exercise common sense and be mountain smart, dress warmly and prepare for all weather conditions.

Good fitness required Steep climb; Hard tramping track

S:TX[6 SH 7, Springs Junction • P: +64 3 523 8863 E: bookings@lewis-pass.co.nz • www.lewis-pass.co.nz

TRACK OVERVIEW Hanmer Springs is a charming resort town and, while you could take the waters all day, there are adventures. Mt Isobel is the perfect adventure to ensure you deserve your subsequent hot soak. With several short walks, possibly the finest is the full day walk up Mt Isobel (1342m). Start at the Clarence Valley Rd car park and wander through woodland before you enter subalpine scrub and open grassland. For the botanically minded the hebes will be of interest. As you walk above the Dog Stream catchment, you’ll link with the upper reaches of the Waterfall Track before starting your climb. Although a bit of effort is required to reach the summit, the panoramic views of the Hanmer Basin, Waiau Plain and surrounding mountains, notably Organ and Hanmer, make it all worthwhile.

Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park 0800 521 037 5 Hanmer Springs Road, Hanmer Springs hanmerspringstop10.co.nz

A beautiful park next to walk trails, 5 mins from thermal pools/ day spa, cafes/restaurants and boutique alpine village.

Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites • Wood fired hot tubs on site • Pizza oven • BBQs • Bike hire

Spend a night • 10 studio & family apartments (sleeping 2-6), 1 with access facilities • Gas water heating, inverter heat pumps, wifi in all units • Sky Select all channels & flatscreen TV in all units, DVD player & free loan DVD library (750+ titles) • On-site laundry facilities • Private terrace with outside dining facilities, safe on-site parking.

• 8 out of 10 units have double-size spa baths • Ideally located for all walking & cycle trails including St James • Secure undercover bicycle storage • Car parking and secure left-luggage facility whilst away on trails • Tariff: $180 - $230 (2 persons) Proudly Kiwi owned and operated by resident proprietors Robert & Rhian Sluggett 121 Argelins Road, Hanmer Springs • Tel: +64 3 315 7211 Email: alpinespringsmotel@xtra.co.nz

not a fortune !

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www.alpinespringsmotel.co.nz

For extensive information and special options visit our website

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AMBIENCE • ROMANCE • LUXURY • RELAXATION

The Perfect Place To Relax And Unwind Enjoy a short bush walk to a waterfall, an overnight mountain tramp or one of the many other varied walks you’ll find in Hanmer Springs. Then soak up the panoramic alpine views in the luxurious studios and suites at this 5-star Qualmark rated property set in the heart of the village.

Freephone 0508 7852637 20 Chisholm Crescent, Hanmer Springs stay@thestjames.co.nz

www.thestjames.co.nz

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...by TripAdvisor independent reviews ...by Lonely Planet Travel Guide 2015-2018 • 16 Modern Self Contained Units • Private Spa Pool in Executive Suite • 8 Kilowatt Heat-pumps in Family Apartments • Double Insulation & Double Glazing in all rooms

Reservations Freephone: 0800 VIEWS 4 U (0800 843 974)

HANMER SPRINGS SCENIC VIEWS MOTEL • 2 Amuri Ave, Hanmer Springs • P/F: +64 3 315 7419

www.hanmerscenicviews.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO’S 79

CANTERBURY

80

WALKING MUST-DO’S 81

CANTERBURY

AWAROA/GODLEY HEAD LOOP TRACK 3

Sheltered in a beautiful harbour and surrounded by dramatic hills, the site of the only attempt to establish a French settlement in New Zealand feels like a secret.

Godley Head © Getty Images

TRACK OVERVIEW Setting off from Godley Head car park, plot a course to Taylors Mistake beach and the Pilgrims Way track.

Follow the well-signposted paths above Mechanics Bay and alongside remnants of the Second World War including the battery observation posts that overlook the entrance to Lyttleton Harbour. Carry on until you reach Boulder Bay, keep on past the Godley Battery Compound (closed now following the earthquakes) and either return the same way or take the shared-use Anaconda Track to Breeze Col. If you choose the second option, be on the lookout for bikes. This walk offers gorgeous views of the city, the Heathcote and Avon Estuaries, and New Brighton Beach. Sharp-eyed wildlife fans will also want to keep a watch out for dolphins, seals and whales.

• Spacious apartmentstyle units • Close to Woodend Tavern, restaurant, cafés • LCD TVs/DVD players • FREE ultra-fast WiFi • 1 minute to Pegasus town & golf course • Christchurch Airport 15 minutes

Where is it?

Start at Godley Head car park, Sumner, Canterbury, about 50 minutes drive from Christchurch.

Terrain Well-formed trails; some of the paths down to the caves require extra care.

Good to know There’s a campsite at Godley Head.

The only motel in Akaroa on the water’s edge Access for dogs on a leash and not on the beach in summertime.

:

Low fitness required

Mention SPA20 to receive a free spa pool session for 2 when you book direct

Easy walking track

FREEPHONE: 0508 WATERFRONT (928 373) • www.akaroawaterfront.co.nz

AWAY FROM THE CITY

But in touch with so much...

THE WHARF AKAROA, SEAFOOD RESTAURANT, BAR AND ACCOMMODATION

Pegasus Gateway Motel

4 Main North Road, SH 1, Pegasus / Woodend Ph +64 3 312 7829

Book Direct For Best Price

Picton 4.5hrs Rangiora 5min

2 SH 7

www.pegasusgatewaymotels.co.nz RESERVATIONS 0800 555 829 82

24 spacious 1, 2 & 3-brm units (14 waterfront) Quiet location Shops and restaurants handy Private spa in tropical setting Private jetty – boats for hire Fun, friendly and relaxed

3hr return; 7km

SH 1

CHRISTCHURCH AIRPORT 15min

For walkers who want a beach, coastal views and World War II relics, this is an excellent stroll for all ages.

Airport 15min Christchurch 20min

WOODEND Beach 2min Kaiapoi 5min

• Luxury accommodation with unobstructed views of Akaroa Harbour • Large bar, offering cocktails, champagne and a selection of tap and craft beer • Traditional Kiwi Dining – Open 7 days/9am until late

75 Beach Road, Akaroa • P/F: +64 3 304 7842 E: hello@thewharfakaroa.co.nz • www.thewharfakaroa.co.nz

AKAROA

ROUND THE MOUNTAIN VIA CURRY TRACK 4

The most French town in New Zealand, Akaroa will have you entranced with its historic buildings, magnificent harbour and passion for fine food.

Numerous activities can be enjoyed on and off the water. Take a spectacular harbour cruise or delight in swimming with the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin, the Hectors dolphin. Visit the largest mainland penguin colony or the world-famous mosaic and sculpture garden, drive or mountain bike along the extinct volcano and hike tracks rich in birdlife. If you’re in search of relaxation, unwind at one of the many great cafés and restaurants, or kick back at the boutique cinema.

Native bush and spectacular views over Akaroa are the highlights of this day tramp.

Where is it?

Start at Akaroa or Heritage Park which is accessible from Long Bay Rd or on foot via Woodills Track.

Terrain Mostly unformed track but signposted, with prolonged up and down. Includes some road walking.

More walks Akaroa and Banks Peninsula has many great walks, from short hikes to all-day tramps. Even a quiet wander around the pretty town of Akaroa is worth making time for.

4hr return Average fitness required Intermediate walking track

Pink sky over Akaroa Harbour and wharf © christchurchnz.org.nz

TRACK OVERVIEW A satisfying and varied walk with some decent climbs that reward with expansive views. From Akaroa or Woodills North, you soon get to Purple Peak Curry Reserve which is a large, high tract of land with impressive biodiversity encompassing native plants including podocarp, cabbage trees, tōtara, mataī and kahikatea. There’s history here too, with the site of a homestead to explore before descending. Take a picnic and find a sunny spot with unencumbered views because this area is all about stunning vistas.

No dogs

Walking in Akaroa & Banks Peninsula

Akaroa and Banks Peninsula has many great walking tracks that you can enjoy for free. These vary from short hikes to all day tramps over the picturesque hills. Most of the walks have spectacular views of the Akaroa harbour once you get up into the hills above the township. The walking brochures are available to purchase at the Akaroa i-SITE Visitor Centre.

www.bankspeninsulawalks.co.nz/ akaroa-walks/

Ads - Half pg Akaroa 456990 THE BANKS PENINS ULA WALKING FESTIVAL happens on th

BANKS TRACKmous coastal

fa Banks Track is a ack. tr g in lk wa te priva a 3-day classic n ee Choose betw y hike. walk and a 2-da

e weekends in November. It celeb rates the stunning scenery and intimate communities of Bank s Peninsula. The event is designed by local people who love to share their passion for this special place wit h people from the wider community. To book walks go to Eventfinda.

www.akaroa.com • www.bankspeninsulawalks.co.nz/akaroa-walks/ WALKING MUST-DO’S 83

CANTERBURY

DEVILS PUNCHBOWL WALKING TRACK 5

KURA TAWHITI ACCESS TRACK 6

Wander through majestic limestone rock formations and reflect on the significance of Kura Tāwhiti (Castle Hill) to Ngāi Tahu as ‘the treasure from a distant land’.

© Graeme Kates

Feel the full force and hear the sound of fresh mountain water falling 131m down one of New Zealand’s most stunning waterfalls.

It’s suitable for a twilight/evening walk. If you venture out after dusk, there is a good chance you’ll hear or see one of the endangered great spotted kiwi/roroa, the ‘mountaineer’ of kiwi. Listen for a loud snuffling or a harsh whistling cry and you’ll know one is close by.

If you are lucky enough to see a bird don’t pursue or interfere with it or take flash photographs. A head-torch with an infrared light is recommended for evening walks.

TRACK OVERVIEW From the start of the walk, follow the footbridge across the Bealey River. The next bridge, over Devils Punchbowl Creek, has a good view of the waterfall.

From here, wander through lush beech forest with friendly fantails/pīwakawaka and tomtits before climbing 150m up a series of steps to a viewing platform at the base of this spectacular waterfall. Return on the same track. The top of this incredible 131m waterfall can be seen from the main road. This walk to the base can be enjoyed all year round.

Where is it?

The area was once under a large, shallow inland sea that began to fill in about 30 million years ago. Pressure over time caused extensive uplift, folding and faulting of the Torlesse and Craigieburn ranges.

The limestone rock has been eroded by water into these distinctive sculptured landforms.

Where is it?

From Christchurch, take SH 73 towards the West Coast. Kura Tāwhiti is beside the highway in the Waimakariri Basin, about 80 minutes from Christchurch.

20min return; 1.4km one way Low-to-moderate fitness required Mix of gentle rises to flat terrain

Low-to-moderate fitness required

Note that low-to-moderate fitness is required for this track as it has a gradual incline with steps. Some people may find the large number of steps challenging.

Gradual incline and steps

Follow an easy access track to the site. From here there is a network of unmarked but worn tracks that go up and around large limestone formations, up to 30m high. These formations can be seen from the highway, but their size is best appreciated up close.

This world-renowned bouldering site has a rock-climbing code that respects the Tōpuni status (special protection) of these outcrops.

Low-to-moderate fitness is required for the flat terrain of this track.

Kura Tāwhiti is an alpine region, so be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

Main Rd (SH 73), Arthur’s Pass Village E: info@apam.co.nz FREEPHONE: 0800 900 401

1hr return; 2km return

Terrain

TRACK OVERVIEW

Arthur’s Pass Alpine Motel

No dogs

The track starts at the northern end of Arthur’s Pass village, just off SH 73 at the Punchbowl car park (signposted off the highway).

No dogs

• Our clean, warm and cosy cabins each sleep 1-5 guests.

• All with own bathroom, kitchen, dining table and couch.

• Listen for kiwi, watch kea play, enjoy nature at its best.

• Walk one of the nearby tracks in Arthur’s Pass National Park.

• Free WiFi, TV and DVD in all rooms.

• Tariff: $130-$155 for 2 guests, extras $25. Reduced winter rates.

BOOK DIRECT FOR BEST PRICE: www.apam.co.nz

Quality budget

accommodation

Ideal accommodation for walking groups.

84

www.yha.co.nz

PEEL FOREST PARK SCENIC RESERVE WALKS 7

Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve is a large, Department of Conservation administered native bush reserve with a variety of trails from 30min to 3hr.

Where is it?

22km north of Geraldine. Follow SH 72 and after the Orari Bridge turn onto Geraldine-Arundel Rd, then left onto Peel Forest Rd. Various tracks leave from this road; others can be accessed from Blandswood Rd.

Extra for experts Peel Forest Park Camping Ground is an ideal base from which to explore the park’s many trails.

No dogs

A few minutes to a few hours Medium fitness required

TRACK OVERVIEW From easy walking across boardwalks and flat, wellformed paths to steeper more challenging bush trails, this reserve is blessed with variety. Remnants of kahikatea swamp forest, giant tōtara, māhoe, kōwhai, kānuka and fuchsia are delightful elements to the park, along with waterfalls and plentiful birdlife.

There’s also history here, with saw pits, tramway routes and artefacts from the milling days of the mid19th century. Fortunately, they weren’t all logged. An accessible highlight is the Big Tree Walk which takes in several of the remaining giants, including a tōtara almost 3m across.

Fun Fact: At least 10 species of native birds can be found here including the native wood pigeon/kererū.

Easy walking to challenging trails

ASURE SCENIC ROUTE MOTOR LODGE 28 Waihi Tce, Geraldine

P: +64 3 693 9700 • E: motelscenicroute@xtra.co.nz

www.motelscenicroute.co.nz

RESERVATIONS FREEPHONE: 0800 723 643

• Modern, ASURE rated 4-star motel.

• Located adjacent to restaurants & shops.

• Large studio/family suites with king-size beds.

• Units have air-con/heat pumps, kitchens & Free WiFi. • Tariff: from $130-$295 (2-5p).

C G S :Z 6

CAROLINE BAY, TIMARU BOTANIC GARDENS & CENTENNIAL PARK WALKS 8

Three walks, one with views, one with gardens and one that offers some wilderness close to town.

From 30min to 1.5hr

Where is it?

Easy to average fitness required

Central Timaru is the starting point for the Caroline Bay and Botanic Gardens trails and Claremont Rd for the Centennial Park walks.

Easy tramping track

Terrain Paved paths and steps for the urban walks; unpaved but well constructed paths in Centennial Park.

TRACK OVERVIEW The Caroline Bay walk starts at the piazza steps and 30-45 minutes later – having meandered along the coast, up the cliff path for a view of the coast, past rose gardens, fountains, an aviary and tearooms – returns there. While in the area, Timaru Botanic Gardens trail is another delightful halfhour option. Start at the Queen St entrance, walk up past the conservatory and fernery to the rose gardens, past the hospital and duck pond to the Queen Victoria Sunken Garden, then downhill to the aviary. Azaleas, rhododendrons and flower beds are the highlights here. Before returning to the starting point, consider a diversion to the Timaru Botanic Garden Interpretation Centre. For a longer walk, head to the Centennial Park where, from Otipua Rd bridge, you can follow a track for about an hour and a half past a lake, through bush.

Dogs are allowed on the beach in winter only

TIMARU

Caroline Bay © South Canterbury Tourism

You’ll find a welcoming scene in Timaru’s town centre with pleasant paved areas and pretty trees and flowers. Don’t miss the Aigantighe Gallery, one of the South Island’s best with a collection including works by Colin McCahon, Frances Hodgkins and Charles Goldie.

97 Talbot St, Geraldine, South Canterbury | Ph: +64 3 693 8501 Hosts: Joseph & Mayumi and David & Helley RESERVATIONS: 0800 400 404

SPACIOUS UNITS

info@geraldinemotels.co.nz•www.geraldinemotels.co.nz • Quality, spacious family & studio • Free WIFI • Pets welcome units, being fully self-contained • Short walk to town and sleeps 2-6 persons • River walk • Off-street & covered parking • Large garden, BBQ & playground GS:T[\

Timaru TOP 10 Holiday Park

A spacious city location. Enjoy beach and coastal walks nearby, with a mountain backdrop.

0800 521 051 154a Selwyn Street, Timaru top10.co.nz

Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites • Jumping Pillow • Playground • WiFi • BBQ Area • Quiet Central Location • TV Room • Golf Course (free round)

Tariff: (Oct 18- Sep19) $110‑$150 (2 persons), extra $20.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 85

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

Walking in the Lower South Island

Simply breathtaking: this region's remarkable terrain is pure oxygen for walkers, nature-lovers and adventurers alike.

rystal-clear alpine lakes,

exploration trail, where walking

Otago and Southland have

towering fiords, snow-

tracks wind alongside picture-

coastlines begging to be explored.

capped mountains,

perfect Lake Wakatipu, up into

Take in Oamaru's blue penguins,

rugged coastlines, golden hill

the hills with awe-inspiring views,

charming stone architecture and

country and historic townships

beside rushing turquoise rivers and

fascinating shops; the strange

makes for a captivating idyll

into the Gibbston Valley, home to

phenomena of the Moeraki

whatever time of year you visit.

world-renowned wineries.

Boulders, the diverse wildlife of

C

With some of the most incredible scenery in New Zealand across the region, wherever you roam across the Lower South Island, you'll hit your stride with gusto.

different; a rocky region cradled by mountain ranges surging with wild rivers and dramatic gorges, and dotted with charming small

the Otago Peninsula, Dunedin's incredible coastal walks and The Catlins – a stretch of coastline with one mind-blowing natural feature after another.

Fiordland is beautiful beyond

towns. Walk alongside the bright

Take a flight or ferry from the

compare. Waterfalls plummet down

blue Clutha Mata-au River and

mainland to Stewart Island for

cliffs to fathomless fiords and lush

spot old gold-miners' huts, wander

the ultimate escape; this serene

green mountains poke their heads

lanes lined with blossoms in full

ecological wonderland is remote,

into the clouds. Nature's beauty is

bloom in springtime, take on the

alluring and packed with great

on full display here and there's a

popular Otago Central Rail Trail or

walks.

plethora of walks to guide you.

other-worldly Roxburgh Gorge Trail,

Queenstown is the spot to go full throttle on the adventure and

86

Central Otago is breathtakingly

walk the shoreline of Lake Dunstan or find a trail beneath the vivid blue sky of the Māniototo Plain.

ABOVE: Nugget Point, The Catlins © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ LEFT: Lake Hayes © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ RIGHT: Mitre Peak, Milford Sound © Destination Fiordland

TIMARU

Mt Aspiring National Park

Milford Sound

Ōtematata

8

Cardrona Arrowtown

94

QUEENSTOWN

Te Anau Downs

85

Cromwell

2 6

Waimate Glenavy

Naseby

Ophir

8

ŌAMARU Ranfurly

Alexandra

7

85

8

Doubtful Sound

6

82

Duntroon

1

Lake Wakatipu

1

83

Kurow

Glenorchy

3

Lake Te Anau

Lake Benmore

Lake Wanaka WANAKA

4

5

Ōmarama

Moeraki

Te Anau Athol

Manapōuri

94 Mossburn

Fiordland National Park

87

94

90 Tapanui

Dusky Sound

Winton

99 Riverton

GORE

INVERCARGILL

Foveaux Strait

8

9 DUNEDIN

Mosgiel Mōmona

1

96

6

Palmerston

Milners Flat

Lumsden

99

Middlemarch

Roxburgh

Milton Balclutha

Kaka Point Catlins Owaka Forest Park Purakaunui

10

11

Bluff

Slope Point

12 Oban

Stewart Island / Rakiura

WALKS SOUTH HILL WALKWAY

1

QUEENSTOWN HILL TIME WALK

2

BANNOCKBURN SLUICINGS

3

LAKE GUNN NATURE WALK

9

HARBOURSIDE PATH DUNEDIN

4

ROUTEBURN TRACK

10

5

MILFORD TRACK

NUGGET POINT/TOKATA WALKS

6

KEPLER TRACK

11

CATHEDRAL CAVES WALK

12

RAKIURA TRACK

7 8

MOERAKI BOULDERS BEACH WALK & MILLENNIUM WALKWAY

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS • Bungy jump, skydive or jet boat in Queenstown • Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw on Lake Wakatipu • Skyline Gondola and Luge, Queenstown • Ski fields: Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona, Treble Cone and Snow Farm • Gibbston Valley's world-famous wine • Lake Wanaka, a beautiful aquatic playground • Explore Arrowtown's township and history • Fiordland's Great Walks

• Take a mind-blowing cruise on Milford Sound • Ōamaru's Victorian Precinct • The Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony • Moeraki Boulders: mysterious spherical rocks • Otago Peninsula's Larnach Castle and wildlife • A scenic trip on the Taieri Gorge Railway • Cycle or walk the Otago Central Rail Trail • The Catlins – a coast of natural wonders • Stewart Island for astro and ecotourism

Te Anau is known as the 'walking capital of the world' – the Milford, Hollyford, Routeburn, Greenstone, Caples, Kepler, Dusky and Hump Ridge tracks are all nearby.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 87

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

QUEENSTOWN HILL TIME WALK 1

So close to the bustling centre of Queenstown, this peaceful walk offers astonishing views when you get to the lookout at the Basket of Dreams sculpture.

Where is it?

Well-signposted, it starts and ends at Belfast Tce, Queenstown.

Terrain Forest paths, some rocks, it can be muddy after rain.

Good to know You can also do the track by bicycle, although you have to be a confident rider as there are steep elements.

Riders and walkers need to share with care.

With Lake Wakatipu at its doorstep and The Remarkables mountains providing stunning surrounds, Queenstown is a must-visit destination. It's a natural playground with fun and thrilling activities galore and a buzzing cosmopolitan town centre.

Basket of Dreams, Queenstown Hill © Sue Rose

TRACK OVERVIEW Set off beneath a forest of Douglas firs. At a point in the trail you will reach a fork; if you go left, the trail is steeper, rockier and shorter than the other path. If you choose to go right, the walk is longer but easier with several information panels along the way.

When you arrive at the lookout you’ll find the Basket of Dreams sculpture, a work made of steel by artist Caroline Robinson.

There you will enjoy views over the Wakatipu Basin across to the Remarkables, Cecil Peak and down to Queenstown Bay. No dogs. Sheep grazing, and part of the walk is on private land.

2hr return, add 30min to summit Moderate fitness required Gentle gradient

Contact us for bookings and enquiries: Cnr Stanley & Beetham Sts, Queenstown Telephone: +64 3 441 0310 Freephone: 0800 484 345 Email: stay@theglebe.co.nz www.theglebe.co.nz

FREEPHONE: 0800 162 122 www.bluepeaks.co.nz • Central location • Near town centre, shops, restaurants • 57 self-contained units with fridge, hairdryer, SKY TV, phone, DVD & heating • FREE WIFI allocation • Continental breakfast available • Cots & highchairs available • Off-street parking • All tours and adventure trips can be arranged at reception • Secure Lock up storage • Tariff: $170-$285 (2 persons)

Enjoy a stay in the finest of luxury in the heart of Queenstown

11 Sydney Street QUEENSTOWN P: +64 3 441 0437 E: info@bluepeaks.co.nz

The Glebe offers beautifully appointed Penthouse Apartments in the heart of Queenstown The highest quality, stylish furnishing and thoughtful conveniences of the Penthouse Apartments are the special factors that set us apart from others.

Quality budget

accommodation

The perfect place to stay for walkers of all ages.

88

www.yha.co.nz

BANNOCKBURN SLUICINGS 2

The spectacular landscape of the Bannockburn Sluicings near Cromwell can be explored on foot or by mountain bike.

Where is it?

Travel 6km southwest through Cromwell, and cross Lake Dunstan to get to Bannockburn.

This site can be accessed from Felton Rd. For those with little time, there are vantage points that can be reached by car, and walks that take just 10 minutes.

If you’ve got more time to spare, trace the water source back up to the Menzies Dam in Stewart Town. There are remains of a stone cottage, an early 19th century orchard, and great views across Cromwell and Bailey’s Gully.

TRACK OVERVIEW The walking track gradually climbs up above the cliff faces, where you have a wide view of how people from the past and present have shaped this land. This desert is not a natural site, but the 150-year-old aftermath of the Otago goldrush. It was created by a technique known as ‘hydraulic sluicing’ where water was blasted at the hills to release the gold.

What looks desolate from the entrance turns into a rough, raw and rewarding walk through a valley of caves, tunnels and rock tailings left untouched since abandoned by the last of the goldminers.

No dogs

Terrain Moderate fitness is required as this walk climbs up above the cliff faces and includes steps. There are vantage points that can be reached by car and smaller walks also.

Left: Bannockburn Sluicings © Pania Dalley / Dept of Conservation

LAKE GUNN NATURE WALK 3

Experience wild Fiordland as you wander through red beech forest enjoying glimpses of the birdlife of the Eglinton Valley, Lake Gunn and the surrounding mountains.

The tranquillity of the beech forest surrounds you within a few steps of the car park. Moss smothers the trees, and tomtits, riflemen and other forest birds are prolific.

Where is it?

The walk begins from Cascade Creek car park on the Milford Rd, about 78km (58 minutes) from Te Anau.

1.5hr; 3.5km loop track Moderate fitness required Cliff faces and steps

TRACK OVERVIEW From the Cascade Creek car park, a short side-path takes you out onto a stony beach. The vast mountains surrounding the deep blue waters of Lake Gunn are awe-inspiring. It’s not just a 45-minute loop track; it’s a chance to experience wild Fiordland.

All abilities and fitness levels can enjoy this track that is mainly flat. The entire track is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and there are wheelchairaccessible toilets at the car park.

This walk is very popular throughout the year but isn’t as busy in the colder months, which makes autumn and winter a great time to visit. This is an alpine region so be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

45min return; 1.4km loop return All fitness levels, wheelchairs & strollers Flat easy walk Forest walk, Lake Gunn © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

The track is near the popular Cascade Creek campsite, and campers often complete the walk first thing in the morning or later in the evening. For the most tranquil experience, try this walk during the middle of the day.

No dogs

WALKING MUST-DO’S 89

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND 4

ROUTEBURN TRACK

TRACK OVERVIEW Walk through Mt Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park and find yourself surrounded by mountains in territory featuring swing bridges, lakes, waterfalls, grassy flats and rushing waterways.

The birdlife is in excellent health so look out for korimako (bellbirds) and the tiny fearless toutouwai/robins, as well as kea, the alpine parrot famous for its cheeky ways.

Mountain tarn at Key Summit on the Routeburn Track © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

One of the Great Walks, this trail features alpine landscapes, waterways, valleys and sublime views of the Routeburn Falls, Hollyford Mountains and Darren Mountains.

Where is it?

Most people start at the Routeburn Shelter near Glenorchy in the east, 45 minutes from Queenstown and finish at the Divide Shelter just outside Te Anau in the west.

Date:

16 May 2019

Job Details: Logo Design

Terrain

No dogs

Bush trails, mountain paths, boardwalks, some steep sections.

Need to know Avoid the Routeburn Track from May to September, when there is a higher risk of avalanche. During the Great Walks season (end of October to the start of May), you'll need to book your space in one of the four huts along the way, so planning ahead is essential.

2-4 days; 33km Moderate fitness required Intermediate tramping track

For many hikers the Harris Saddle is a highlight, at 1250m above sea level. This point links the Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks and is home to heart-shaped Harris Lake, with views that lift the spirit, depending on the quantity of mist, cloud and rain.

Please Check Proof Carefully Spelling Colours Sizes

Customer: Aden Motel

While every care has been taken with this proof, no responsibility will be accepted for mistakes found after this proof has been approved.

Option 1

ADEN MOTEL Copyright This proof shall not be reproduced without written permission from Creation Signs.

57‑59 Quintin Dr, Te Anau Ph: +64 3 249 7748 Email: info@adenmotel.co.nz www.adenmotel.co.nz Reservations: 0800 11 66 44 Hosts: Irene Benfell & David Herron Designer: Kelly File Location:

Z:\Creation Production\A to Z\R\Red Tussock Motel\Aden Motel logo

Approved By

Lakefront Lodge Te Anau

______________

Aden Motel TE ANAU, NZ

88 Bill Richardson Dr PO Box 313 Invercargill. www.creationsigns.co.nz Phone 03 211 0301

Date ______________ Approval Signature ______________

NZSDA NZ SIGN & DISPLAY ASSOCIATION (Inc.)

• A Kiwiana Style • Relaxed, homely place to stay • Full cooking facilities • Quiet location, studio, 1 & 2‑brm units • Tour bookings arranged, local knowledge is best • 10min stroll to town centre, 100m to lakefront • Environmentally friendly • FREE WiFi • Playground & BBQ area

Check www.adenmotel.co.nz for current best rates & to book

42 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau • T: 03 249 7546 www.fiordlandlakeview.co.nz

• Upmarket complex for business or pleasure.

• Superb ground-floor SPA, 1-brm & studio kitchen units.

• Continental breakfasts.

• Close to town. Free tour desk/storage/unlimited WiFi. • Tariff: $160-$295, extra $30, seasonal.

Reservations: 0800 525 337 Cnr Lakefront Dr & Mokoroa St, Te Anau • Ph: +64 3 249 7728 www.lakefrontlodgeteanau.com • Email: stay@lakefrontlodgeteanau.com

FREE CALL: 0800 PARKLAND (727 552) Located in the heart of Te Anau

PARKLANDS MOTEL 16 Mokoroa St, Te Anau P: +64 3 249 7240

Fiordland Lakeview Motel and Apartments is located on the shore of the South Island’s largest and most beautiful lake. A 10 minute scenic walk to the Town Centre and Restaurants, close to everything you may need while staying in picturesque Te Anau. From the windows of our Apartments is a panoramic view over Lake Te Anau. Visit our famous Milford Track or the other stunning Kepler, Routeburn and Hollyford walking tracks.

• 6 x 1-brm kitchen units, 2 family units, 12 studio units: queen-size beds, ensuite bathroom with shower/toilet.

• Free WiFi • Overlooks park. Shops 300m.

• Tariff: (2 persons) $95-$160.

Extra person/child $10-$20.

• 10% discount on Direct Bookings.

ES:TX\ RESERVATIONS: www.parklandsmotel.nz • E: info@parklandsmotel.nz

90

5

One of the world’s best-loved multi-day walks and one of this country's Great Walks, it features lakes, mountains and views to remember forever.

MILFORD TRACK

Where is it?

Start at Glade Wharf at the head of Lake Te Anau, 27km from the township. Finish at Sandfly Point, Milford Sounds.

Terrain Well-formed bush and forest tracks, some steps, dirt, gravel, very steep in parts and it can be slippery after rain.

Need to know You may only walk in one direction and you must take a boat to the start at Glade Wharf. The final leg from Sandfly Point is also by boat through the majestic Milford Sounds.

Most do it in 4 days; 53.5km Intermediate fitness required

TRACK OVERVIEW Valley vistas, lakes that reflect like mirrors when the wind isn’t blowing, mountain ranges and all manner of wildlife, most of it with wings, Milford Track has been charming visitors for over 150 years. Whether you walk independently or take a guided walk for a more comfortable experience, this is a seriously stunning adventure. Mackinnon Pass is the steepest section and many walkers are glad to have poles to take the strain off their knees. There are three huts on the Milford Track and they must be booked ahead in the Great Walks season from the end of October to the start of May. Be prepared; it rains here 182 days of the year. Many Milford devotees say the walk is improved when the weather is moody so perhaps it’s best to subscribe to the old adage, ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear’.

Very steep in parts

Giant Gate Falls © Destination Fiordland

No dogs

TE ANAU

TE ANAU LAKEVIEW KIWI HOLIDAY PARK & MOTELS

Free WiFi Million Dollar Views of Lake Te Anau & Mountains Stay at least one night to fully enjoy Milford & Doubtful Sounds

77 Manapouri Te Anau Highway, Te Anau P +64 3 249 7457 E res@teanau.info

10 minute walk to town Lake Fr

ont

NO ONE ELSE COMES CLOSE. The longest cruise, guided day trips, kayaking and an underwater observatory — you’ll discover more of Milford Sound with us.

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Manapouri-Te Anau

Stay in our family owned holiday park and experience Fiordland from our spacious lakefront establishment.

Milford Sound

0800 264 536

southerndiscoveries.co.nz

Phone for reservations: 0800 483 262 www.teanau.info

WALKING MUST-DO’S 91

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND The Kepler Rangers were named after the 17th century German astronomer Johannes Kepler. Fiordland’s first ranger Richard Henry thought he would be the perfect namesake because the stars are so clear in this area thanks to the absence of light pollution.

6

KEPLER TRACK

One of the Great Walks, this charming adventure features stunning lakes, rivers and bridges, alpine scenery and an ever-changing landscape that includes tussock and towering forests.

Kepler Track © Rob Suisted / Destination Fiordland

Where is it?

Terrain

Start at the Kepler Track car park, 5km from Te Anau township. Many people choose to start in Te Anau.

Gravel, rock, dirt, largely wellformed forest tracks and alpine trails.

3-4 days; 60km loop

Good to know

Intermediate fitness required

Make bookings in advance for huts and campsites through the Department of Conversation.

Some climbing

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW For visitors eager to experience the highlights of Fiordland the Kepler Track is ideal because in a way it’s Fiordland’s ‘best of’ album, featuring mountain ranges, ridge walking, lakes, forests, waterfalls and glacier-carved valleys. The birdlife is flourishing and you could

spy kea, weka and pīwakawaka (fantails) along with kererū, kaka and even kiwi. There are three huts and two campsites to choose from.

At the Luxmore Hut, make a detour to explore the Luxmore Caves and pack a swimsuit as there are several spots that are perfect for a dip.

Official Visitor Website for

Fiordland

Milford Track Kepler Track Routeburn Track Fiordland National Park Website: www.fiordland.org.nz 92

SOUTH HILL WALK 7

A walk right in the heart of Ōamaru featuring delightful coastal views, native forest and fabulous birdlife as well as an introduction to Ōamaru’s historic landmarks.

MOERAKI BOULDERS BEACH WALK & MILLENNIUM WALKWAY 8

Terrain Hills, grass tracks, beach with rocks and some urban elements.

TRACK OVERVIEW Running between Takaro Park and Lookout Point, the South Hill Walkway winds its way through Ōamaru’s fascinating historic precinct then takes you up to the lookout with an option to detour to the yellow-eyed penguin/ hoiho colony. The track connects with the Skyline Walk which provides excellent views of Ōamaru, too.

30min; 2km Average fitness required Some hills and grass tracks Moeraki Boulders, Otago Coast © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

The Millennium Walkway is a lovely coastal walk, wellsignposted and dotted with information boards.

Where is it?

Start at Moeraki Point, between Moeraki and Hampden on the coast of Otago. Ōamaru Opera House © Tourism Waitaki

ŌAMARU There are many reasons to fall in love with Ōamaru, not least of all the 19th century buildings, stunning coastline and accessible blue penguin colony. Get a handle on its history at Whitestone City. Housed in an 1882 grain store in the Victorian precinct, there is an old dispensary and barber shop, plus interactive displays and a chance to dress up in period costume.

Afterwards wander around the pretty streets and gardens, browse antique bookshops and visit an ‘urban winery’.

Terrain Tracks, boardwalks, steps, stiles, beach.

3hr return; extra 1.7km along Koekohe Beach to boulders Average fitness required Some steps

Need to know Ensure the tide is low.

The easy option You can visit the boulders by walking a short 150m loop from the café to view the boulders from above, which also makes it possible for people in strollers and wheelchairs to enjoy this spectacle.

TRACK OVERVIEW The Moeraki Boulders are geological wonders, giant orbs of sedimentary rocks that were created 13-65 million years ago and exposed by erosion. Many people start The Millennium Walk at the Moeraki Village lookout, strolling past Puke Mataa, the ancient pā site, before setting off around towards Millers Bay.

• Stunning views & beach frontage • Motel units, tourist flats, cabins, bunkroom (8 people) • Modern facilities, power points & tent sites • WiFi available • Close to penguins, seals, restaurants • Tariff: From (2 persons) $70$160, tent/power sites $40 114 Haven St, Moeraki, Otago • Ph/Fax: +64 3 439 4759 Email: moerakivillageholidaypark@xtra.co.nz www.moerakivillageholidaypark.co.nz Hosts: Kristina & Robbie Mitchell

WALKING MUST-DO’S 93

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

HARBOURSIDE PATH DUNEDIN 9

Designed for walkers and cyclists, this new path is just the beginning of a longer, wonderfully picturesque adventure. With seabirds, ships, sailboats and refreshing sea breezes in the mix, it’s hard to imagine a better family walk so close to a major city.

Where is it?

Along the edge of Otago Harbour from Vauxhall at the head of the harbour to St Leonards on the way to Port Chalmers. Note there are other stretches of this project under construction, including along the peninsula from Vauxhall to Macandrew Bay.

14km each way – approx 3 hours Low fitness required – great for families Flat, sealed and well-maintained

NUGGET POINT/ TOKATA WALKS 10

TRACK OVERVIEW Eventually there will be a path from Port Chalmers all the way around to Otago Peninsula with a total distance of 42km. That’s a few years away but meanwhile, a good chunk of it can be enjoyed, tracing the harbour edge.

From Vauxhall Yacht Club on Portobello Rd, the path crosses the causeway, winds through the harbourside precinct and crosses the Water of Leigh at its mouth, by way of an inspiring, architecturally-designed bridge near the Forsyth Barr Stadium. From there, it continues along the harbour edge to St Leonards. It’s an accessible, achievable, good fun walk with lots of interest and plenty of photo opportunities, too, with Mt Cargill and the peninsula providing the backdrop.

Nugget Point, Catlins Coast © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

In The Catlins

Owaka’s Number 1 Camp

• Sheltered beach, waterfront with sea lions, bush walks and abundant native birds. Kayaks, fishing, playground, golf.

• Choice of 77 rooms with private facilities-suite, economy, standard room or shared dorm rooms, (sleep 1-4).

• Centrally located within 500m to the Octagon, Railway Station, Settlers Museum, cafés and main shopping area.

• Our facilities include bar, lounge, garden courtyard, laundry, accessibility room, luggage and cycle storage.

Book direct for best deal!

• Free off-street parking available, 24-hour check-in and local tours arranged.

• Free unlimited WiFi for guests.

On the Waterfront

• Tariff: From Shared Dorm $29, Backpacker pvt $89 (2p), Hotel Single $99, Double/Twin $120-$145, Triple/Quad $170, Suite $175.

Park Lane, Pounawea, Owaka, Catlins Ph/Fax: 03 415 8483 Res: 0800 122 854 Email: pounawea.motor.camp@xtra.co.nz

27 Queens Gardens, Dunedin +Ph:64 3 477 3160 E: leviathan@xtra.co.nz • www.dunedinhotel.co.nz Freephone: 0800 773 773

• Choice of tent sites and cabins (sleep up to 6), modern amenities and kitchen. Free WiFi.

• Tariff: (2 persons) tent and power sites from $32, cabins from $40, children under 4yrs free.

www.catlins‑nz.com/pounawea‑motor‑camp/

6RCZ

DUNEDIN NEW ZEALAND 594 Great King Street, PO Box 112, Dunedin, NZ Tel­: +64 3 477 0270 Email: woodlandsvillage@xtra.co.nz Book direct for best deal!

• Spacious, self-contained 1 and 2-bedroom units (sleeps 1 to 8 persons).

• Full kitchens, on-site laundry, free unlimited WiFi, off-street parking.

• Guest BBQ & playground, enclosed by established gardens in a park-like setting.

• Centrally located, close to University, Hospital, retail shops, restaurants and cafés.

• Easy walking distance to Stadium, KFC, McDonalds, pizza outlets & supermarkets.

• Weekly rates available on request.

Tariff: From $130-$165 (2 persons), extra person $20 © Southland Tourism NZ

www.motel594.co.nz • Freephone: 0508

94

594 594

www.thomascatlins.co.nz • Great bush & estuary walks nearby.

• Pets on request.

• Dorms, budget and ensuite rooms, plus family & 2-bedroom apartment.

• Power and non-power sites on spacious grounds.

• Guest laundry, large communal kitchen and games room.

• Plenty of parking.

• From 150m to town centre, supermarket and café.

• Free unlimited WiFi.

Tariff: from $16-$175

Cnr Clark & Ryley Sts, Owaka, Catlins

E:RT[6 P: +64 3 415 8333 M: 0274 158 333 • E: stay@thomascatlins.co.nz

Beautiful scenery, flourishing wildlife and a lighthouse. Also great viewing of the Aurora Australis, otherwise known as the Southern Lights, from here.

Where is it?

On the Catlins Coast, drive along from Kaka Point and pull in at Kaimātaitai car park.

Terrain The pathway leads to a platform at the base of the lighthouse and the path is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

Bright idea The time to view the phenomenon of Aurora Australis is during winter.

No dogs

10-20min return; other longer tracks as well Low fitness required Easy walking track

TRACK OVERVIEW Walk to where the land thrusts out into the sea and visit one of the country’s oldest lighthouses, where it clings to the rocks above the surging sea.

Originally called Tokata

by Māori, Captain Cook dubbed the land mass Nugget Point due to its resemblance to pieces of gold. The short walk to the lighthouse is particularly popular at sunrise and sunset, when the colours are sensational. Look to the rocks below and see fur seals going about their lives. Also look for elephant seals, sea lions, yellow-eyed penguins and Hector’s dolphins. Spoonbills, sooty shearwaters and gannets also make their presence felt round these waters.

THE WALKING COUNTRY WE ALL DREAM OF...

CATHEDRAL CAVES WALK

11

A magical mystical coastal cave trail. Explore the cliffs at the north end of Waipati Beach and discover two passages carved by the ocean, close to 200m long and 30m wide.

TRACK OVERVIEW Walk through lush coastal bush, along the beach and into the caves which are said to be some of the longest of this kind in the world. Formed due to millions of years of erosion, there is something really extraordinary about these caverns, while the acoustics of voices and waves within the huge spaces can feel most eerie. Plan your visit around low tide and expect to get your feet wet. Do look out for penguins and sea lions; do not approach any of the wildlife.

Where is it?

Chaslands Rd, The Catlins. 15km south of Papatōwai Village, 2km from the main road.

Terrain Bush track, beach walking, cave interiors.

Need to know Access to Cathedral Caves is only possible one and a half hours either side of low tide and only from late October to May. Adults $5, children $1, no EFTPOS. Be sure to take a torch. Insect repellent can also be handy.

30min each way; 2km return Easy fitness required Easy walk

To safeguard the wildlife, no dogs.

Mavora - Greenstone Walkway

Welcome Rock Trail

Te Anau

Piano Flat Loop Track

Lumsden Big Totara Walk

Ads - Half page Venture Southland Hump Ridge Track

Whisky Creek Track

Tuatapere

Gore

Long Hilly Track

Forest Hill Track

Foveaux Walkway

Invercargill

The Catlins Waipohatu Track

Rakiura Track

WALK FOR A FEW MINUTES, WALK FOR A FEW HOURS, OR WALK FOR A FEW DAYS...

Stewart Is. southlandnz.com/greatwalking

WALKING MUST-DO’S 95

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND 12

RAKIURA TRACK

Escape on an island adventure and exchange the hustle and bustle of mainland life for the tranquillity of the Rakiura Track – one of the Great Walks. Revel in the peacefulness and idyllic surroundings with the bush, birds and beach at your side.

Enjoy stunning coastal views and get absorbed in lush and dense virgin forest and regenerating podocarp forest on this leisurely circular track.

This is the ultimate island wilderness experience and a taste of the way New Zealand used

to be. You’ll be welcomed by a cacophony of native birdsong and a warm greeting from the locals in the tiny settlement of Oban.

If you get the chance, visit iconic Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara, off Stewart Island/Rakiura, a beautiful island sanctuary open to the public.

The amazing Rakiura tokoeka/kiwi (unlike their cousins further north) can sometimes be seen foraging during daylight hours and can often be heard calling at the day’s end.

Oban, Stewart Island/Rakiura. Take a 20min flight from Invercargill or a 1hr ferry trip across Foveaux Strait from the southern port of Bluff.

Immerse yourself in the history, from early Māori settlement sites around Māori Beach and Port William/Potirepo, to sawmilling relics dispersed along the track.

During the Great Walks season you will need to book your space in advance, so planning ahead is essential.

No dogs

Where is it?

3 days/2 nights; 32km Medium fitness required

Good to know

Intermediate tramping track

Queens Park Motels 85 Alice St, Invercargill • Ph: +64 3 214 4504 M: +64 22 061 8198 Email: quietstay@queensparkmotels.co.nz www.queensparkmotels.co.nz

189 Tay St (SH 1), Invercargill • P: +64 3 218 8881 • E: birch@birchwood.co.nz

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HERBERT ST

Queens Park Motel Queens Park Golf Course

QUEENS DR

KELVIN ST

ALICE ST

DEE ST

www.birchwoodmanor.co.nz

SH 6

RESERVATIONS ONLY: 0800 888 234

To Bluff

6

To Queenstown

• Closest to the city centre • Supermarket 50m • Cafés, restaurants & theatre 500m • Southern Institute of Technology & Workingmen’s Club 200m • Centrally heated rooms • Spa units • SKY 50+ channels • FREE WIFI • Off-street parking • Airport 4min drive • Tariff: Studios from $140, corporate & group rates available

GALA ST City Centre TAY ST

To Dunedin

Reservations: 0800 800 504

Unlimited FREE WiFi

• Off the main roads • QUIET • Walk through our back gate into Queens Park • Close to Southern Cross Hospital, Club Southland & Southland Boys High School. 3-6min drive to inner city, Rugby Park, Stadium Southland & Velodrome, Splash Palace, airport, restaurants and Rowena Jackson Retirement Village • Ideal for families, couples, large sporting & cultural groups • Clean, tidy studio, 1-brm, 6 x 2-brm family units, self-contained for families and business • Children’s playground & park next door • Airport pick-up by arrangement/car storage for Stewart Island travellers Tariff: $125-$150 (1-2 persons), extra $20, under 12yrs $15, under 5yrs free, seasonal/corporate rates.

Rakiura Track, Stewart Island © www.southlandnz.com

TRACK OVERVIEW On the first day enjoy stunning coastal views from Lee Bay to picturesque Little River.

Continue around to walk along Māori Beach. After the swing bridge, climb up the forested ridge then down to the hut.

The next day you will walk through beautiful regenerating podocarp forest, as well as lush and dense virgin forest.

The track descends to North Arm on Paterson Inlet.

On the third day the track goes through native forest of kāmahi and rimu, with wonderful views across the inlet. Continue to follow the coast down to secluded bays, with historic mill sites along the way. Sawdust Bay has tidal mudflats, making it a great spot to watch wading birds feeding at low tide. The track ends at Fern Gully car park, 2km from Oban.

Bush walk, Stewart Island © Stewart Island Experience

Through the regenerating bush and sub-alpine scrub, look and listen out for kea, falcon, tūī, bellbird, grey warbler and shining and long-tailed cuckoo.

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS Invercargill, New Zealand's southernmost city entices visitors with its elegant boulevards and beautiful gardens. Don’t miss Queens Park in the heart of the city, which incorporates around 80ha of gardens, wildlife displays, a golf course, a bird aviary and a castle.

The city is also a little obsessed with anything on wheels. See the late motorbike racing legend Burt Munro's original Indian Scout machine at E Hayes Motorworks Collection – his story was made into the movie The World’s Fastest Indian. Head to Classic Motorcycle Mecca for more amazing bikes from 1902-2007. Continue the theme at Transport World and see vintage VW Kombi vans. You can also drive a digger and try out the skid pan at Dig This.

Bluff is the gateway to Stewart Island. Visit Stirling Point, one of the southernmost mainland points, with an iconic signpost pointing to major cities around the world. Bluff Hill gives breathtaking 360° views of Stewart Island and Foveaux Strait. Home to the world-famous, Bluff oyster, this town is the place to graze at the annual Bluff Oyster Festival held every May. Queens Park, Invercargill © Southland Tourism

Bluff Camping Ground Unlimited

WIFI

• For your stop-off to Stewart Island • Hard & grass powered sites • An ideal base for shark-cage diving • Centrally located • Kitchen & dining area with deck & harbourside views • Showers & laundry • Children’s playground • Waste station 21 Gregory St (off Marine Pde), Bluff • Phone: +64 27 626 2018 Email: procter01@xtra.co.nz • www.bluffcampingground.co.nz

www.stewartislandflights.com

www.ambleoninn.co.nz Gateway to Catlins Southern Scenic Route • Info Centre 5km • Peaceful & rural • Access facilities: toilet/shower room • Communal kitchen • TV in units • Pets by arrangement • FREE WIFI Allocation • Tariff: (1-2 persons) standard cabins from $55, studios from $130, 2-brm s/c units from $150, sites from $40.

145 Chesney St, Invercargill • Ph: +64 3 216 5214

Email: enquiries@ambleoninn.co.nz

Stewart Island Flights offer multiple scheduled flights daily - Invercargill to Halfmoon Bay (Oban) return. 20min flight.

Courtesy shuttle from airport to township.

• Fly direct to Mason Bay (Kiwi Spotting), Doughboy Bay and West Ruggedy beach.

• Ask about our day trip activity packages and bus tours • Coast to Coast fly/trek/boat wilderness adventure • Exclusive guided kiwi viewing tours (1.5 - 2 hour trip)

Your ticket to adventure & tranquillity Ph +64 3 218 9129 E: info@stewartislandflights.co.nz

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