Must-Do's Walking 2021-22 by AA Traveller

MUST 2022

New Zealand walks from 30 minutes to multi-day

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

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AUCKLAND • Matamata

Our scenic trains and Interislander ferry offer the most comfortable way to travel, taking you places to experience New Zealand’s spectacular walking trails.

• Waitomo

Tongariro National Park •

Paraparaumu •

•

Nelson

Find out more: greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

PICTON

GREYMOUTH

• Kaikōura

• Lake Brunner Arthur’s Pass •

• Waimakariri River

CHRISTCHURCH

Mike Daisley BOTH: © New Zealand Mountain Safety Council

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

t could be to appreciate the native flora and fauna, take in an awe-inspiring view or to disconnect from your everyday routine. Here at the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council we encourage you to get out and explore, safely. No matter the length or type of walk, a little preparation goes a long way. Start with selecting a trip that is well suited to your abilities, the time available, and of course the weather forecast. This simple step is the first, and most important part of your preparation.

Exploring Aotearoa through its diverse walking and tramping tracks is not just something for the experienced tramper. Our huge range of walks means there is something for everyone, whether you have an hour, full-day, or overnight. To help you plan and prepare we have launched a new app, ‘Plan My Walk’ (it’s also a website). Plan My Walk makes planning easy by removing the guesswork, and even better it has well over 1000 tracks to choose from. Use the app to find a suitable track that inspires you and the rest is easy. Plan My Walk guides you through the weather forecast and track alerts, an interactive gear list and a planning section where you can create and save a trip plan in just minutes, then sharing your plan with a trusted contact.

Our great outdoors is so much more than just a place to explore. It has long been part of the fabric and culture of Aotearoa. This culture sits at the heart of Plan My Walk, and we are excited to support your walking and tramping adventures through this world-first initiative. Have fun, and stay safe out there!

MIKE DAISLEY Chief Executive of the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council

WALKING MUST-DO’S 1

WALKING MUST-DO’S Roys Peak, Wanaka BELOW: Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough BOTH: © Miles Holden

You’re looking at just one of 10 New Zealand Travel Guides from AA Traveller, curated by Kiwis for Kiwis. Pick up your FREE MustDo’s guides today.

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MUST EDITION 2020/21

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Nga Haerenga The New Zealand Cycle Trail’s Great Rides

aatraveller.co.nz Featuring the Great Rides & Heartland Rides • Route Descriptions • Maps • Safety Tips • Things to See and Do • Places to Stay

Get inspired, plan your trip and find great places to stay along the way.

2 Pick up your FREE MAPS and GUIDES from an AA Centre or information centre

Welcome to Walking Must-Do’s

Mt Ngauruhoe, Tongariro Alpine Crossing © Adobe Stock

ISBN > 978-1-98-852370-5 © The New Zealand Automobile Association Incorporated 2021. 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.

CONTENTS 4 5 6 7 8 10

NORTH ISLAND MAP North Island Contents SOUTH ISLAND MAP South Island Contents Walking in New Zealand New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks

Northland Auckland The Coromandel, Bay of Plenty & Tairāwhiti Gisborne Central North Island Lower North Island

56 Marlborough & Nelson Tasman 62 West Coast 68 Canterbury 76 Lower South Island

Keeping safe

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.

• Plan your trip in advance by researching the terrain and suggested hike time. • Tell someone your plans beforehand.

Published in November 2021 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.images@aa.co.nz W. www.aatraveller.co.nz ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: T. +64 9 966 8720 E. tourism.sales@aa.co.nz

12 22 30 40 50

• Keep cellphones and maps in waterproof bags.

• Consider who you’re walking with and understand their fitness levels as well as your own.

• Wear the right gear. Take rain protection, avoid cotton clothing and keep your core warm.

COVER IMAGE: Devils Punchbowl, Arthur’s Pass © Department of Conservation

While every care has been taken in the compilation of this guide, due to the pandemic there may have been changes since going to press. We advise you to check before you visit any establishment mentioned in this guide, as they may be in hibernation, offering limited services or no longer open for business.

• Take sufficient supplies.

• Check the weather and prepare for it.

PRINTED BY: Webstar, Auckland

COVID CASUALTIES

• Consider all medical issues. Know the limits of every walker, pace yourselves and stay together.

WALKING TRACK KEY Time and distance

Track terrain

Loop track

Track Grade

Dogs allowed

No dogs

WALKING MUST-DO’S 3

WALKING MUST-DO’S

Walking Must-Do’s of North Island

Te Mata Peak, Hawke’s Bay © Hawke’s Bay Tourism

NORTH ISLAND CONTENTS 12 Walking Must-Do’s of Northland 13 Rainbow Falls Walks & Kerikeri River Track, Kerikeri 13 Bay of Islands Coastal Walkway, Paihia 15 Cape Brett Track, Bay of Islands 18 Hātea Loop Walkway, Whangārei 18 Mt Manaia Track, Whangārei Heads 19 Waipū Coastal Walkway, Waipū 19 Arai Te Uru Heritage Walk, Hokianga Harbour 20 Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway, Mangawhai 20 Tokatoka Scenic Reserve Track, Kaipara 21 Kai Iwi Lakes Coastal Track, Dargaville 22 Walking Must-Do’s of Auckland 23 Mt Tamahunga Walkway, Matakana 23 Te Ara Tāhuna Estuary Walkway, Ōrewa 24 North Shore Coastal Walk, North Shore 25 Auckland Foreshore Heritage Walk, Central Auckland 27 Coast to Coast Walkway,

Waitematā to Manukau to Central Auckland 27 Rangitoto Summit Track, Rangitoto Island 28 Waiheke Art Walking Trail, Waiheke Island 29 Te Atatū Peninsula Walkway, West Auckland 29 Hūnua Falls Loop Track, East Auckland 30 Walking Must-Do’s of The Coromandel, Bay of Plenty & Tairāwhiti Gisborne 31 Coromandel Coastal Walkway, Port Charles 33 Cathedral Cove Walk, The Coromandel 34 Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (Pinnacles Walk), The Coromandel 35 Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway, Waihi 35 Te Aroha Summit Track, Te Aroha 36 Mt Maunganui (Mauao) Summit Walk, Mt Maunganui 38 Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Walkway, Whakatāne 39 Lake Waikaremoana Track, Te Urewera 39 Cooks Cove Walkway, Tolaga Bay, Eastland

40 Walking Must-Do’s of Central North Island 41 Hamilton Lake Walkway, Hamilton 42 Wairēinga/Bridal Veil Falls, Raglan 43 Cambridge to Karāpiro Te Awa Walk, Cambridge 44 Mt Pirongia Summit via Mahaukura Track, Waikato 45 Ruakuri Walk, Waitomo 46 Blue Lake Track, Rotorua 48 Great Lake Walkway, Taupō 48 Tongariro Northern Circuit, Ruapehu 49 Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Ruapehu 50 Walking Must-Do’s of Lower North Island 52 Pouakai Crossing, Taranaki 53 Dawson Falls Walking Tracks, Taranaki 53 Bridge to Nowhere Walk, Whanganui region 54 Manawatū Gorge Tawa Loop Walk, Manawatū 54 Big Redwoods Track, Te Mata Peak, Havelock North 55 Mākara Walkway, Wellington 55 City to Sea Walkway, Wellington

Exploring the North Island is like ticking off nature’s checklist. Mountains? Tick. Rivers, coastlines, and rainforest? Yes. Add lakes, caves and geothermal activity and it’s the full sweep. To really be in the midst of all this, you want to be walking.

LEFT: Tongariro National Park TOP LEFT: Cape Rēinga, Northland FAR LEFT: Tupare Gardens, Taranaki ALL IMAGES: © Adobe Stock

WALKING MUST-DO’S 5

WALKING MUST-DO’S

Walking Must-Do’s of South Island

SOUTH ISLAND CONTENTS 56 Walking Must-Do’s of Marlborough & Nelson Tasman 57 Wainui Falls Track, Abel Tasman National Park 57 Abel Tasman Coast Track, Abel Tasman National Park 58 Tākaka Hill Walkway, Tākaka 59 Heaphy Track, Kahurangi National Park and Karamea 60 Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough 60 Lake Chalice Hut Walk, Mt Richmond 61 Lake Rotoiti Circuit, Nelson Lakes 61 Speargrass Track, Nelson Lakes 62 Walking Must-Do’s of West Coast 63 Oparara Arch Walk, Karamea 63 Charming Creek Walkway, Buller 64 Cape Foulwind Walkway, Westport

64 Paparoa Track & Pike29 Memorial Track, Punakāiki 65 Truman Track, Punakāiki 66 Point Elizabeth Walkway, Greymouth 66 Hokitika Gorge Walk, Hokitika 67 Franz Josef Glacier Walk, Franz Josef Glacier 67 Lake Matheson Walk, Fox Glacier 68 Walking Must-Do’s of Canterbury 69 Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, Kaikōura 72 Mt Isobel Track, Hurunui 74 Devils Punchbowl Walking Track, Arthur’s Pass 74 Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track, Christchurch 75 Round the Mountain via Curry Track, Akaroa 75 Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve Walks, Geraldine

75 Caroline Bay, Timaru Botanic Gardens & Centennial Park Walks, Timaru 76 Walking Must-Do’s of Lower South Island 77 Roys Peak Track, Mt Aspiring 78 Queenstown Hill Time Walk, Queenstown 79 Bannockburn Sluicings, Central Otago 80 Routeburn Track, Mt Aspiring/Queenstown 81 Milford Track, Fiordland 81 Kepler Track, Te Anau 82 South Hill Walkway, Ōamaru 83 Moeraki Boulders Beach Walk & Millennium Walkway, Waitaki 84 Harbourside Path, Dunedin 85 Nugget Point/Tokata Walks, Clutha 85 Cathedral Caves Walk, The Catlins 86 Rakiura Track, Stewart Island

No sooner have your eyes settled on the South Island, you’ll feel the urge to be immersed in it, to experience up close the landscape in all its magical variety. Such is the beauty here, hiking, walking or even just wandering is addictive.

TOP: Abel Tasman National Park © Lightstyle LEFT: Ōpararā Arch, West Coast TOP LEFT: Hiker in Fiordland LEFT: Moeraki Boulders ALL IMAGES: © Adobe Stock

WALKING MUST-DO’S 7

WALKING MUST-DO’S

WALKING

IN NEW ZEALAND

Franz Josef Glacier, West Coast BELOW: Ōmāpere, Northland RIGHT: Kaipara kauri trees BOTTOM: Glenorchy ALL IMAGES: © Adobe Stock

WHAT IS DOC? DOC stands for Department of Conservation (or ‘Te Papa Atawhai’). DOC manages a network of walks and over 950 huts. Its website is your go-to for all things hiking and tramping, including information on track closures and how to book DOC campsites and huts. – www.doc.govt.nz

WHAT ARE NEW ZEALANDS’ GREAT WALKS? In New Zealand you’ll hear fellow walkers rave about New Zealand’s Great Walks. With jaw-dropping

So remarkable are New Zealand’s many walks, they convert even the most ardent antiwalkers into hiking enthusiasts. If you’re new to tramping, read up before you lace up... 8

scenery and well-kept multiday trails (and one is even a canoe route), these 10 walks are

NEED TO KNOW Visit www.doc.govt. nz for information on track closures,

considered unmissable. TOP TIP: Read more about each Great Walk on page 10.

WHAT SHOULD I TAKE? Appropriate footwear, plenty of water, and depending on the duration of your walk, ample food,

alerts relevant

first aid and a head torch. Even in

to conservation

the height of summer, a rain jacket

areas, weather updates and safety plans.

and pack cover is recommended, as are waterproof bags for your tech and maps. TOP TIP: Don’t waste precious food on the wildlife! Feeding the birds can harm them.

HOW DO I STAY ON TRACK? New Zealand’s walking tracks are vast and the bush is a labyrinth-like terrain. However, marked tracks are numerous, well-maintained and are dotted with orange triangles to guide you safely along the route. TOP TIP: Before setting off, even if you’re in a group, let someone know where you’re going and how long you expect to be gone for.

WHAT CAN I DO TO STAY SAFE? HOW CAN I BE ENVIRO-FRIENDLY?

Plan well in advance and research your walk thoroughly. The weather can change quickly in New

Leave no trace: carry out exactly

Zealand, often without warning.

what you carry in, including

Always check the weather forecast

rubbish. Stay on marked tracks to

and pack the right gear for the

protect the natural environment, and plan your trip well ahead so your environmental impact is minimal. Toilets aren’t always readily available, so be aware which tracks you might need to

Go-To Online Resources The NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) has a range of free resources to make your next outdoor adventure a total success:

“dig and dispose”.

PLANNING MADE EASY

TOP TIP: Kauri dieback is an

planning app and website. Plan My Walk helps with track

uncurable disease killing kauri trees. Please keep to the tracks, clean all your footwear and equipment (look out for cleaning stations) and stay away from tree roots.

The free ‘Plan My Walk’ is the ultimate walking and tramping inspiration of over 1000 tracks, before guiding the user through weather forecasts and alerts, any track information and relevant

conditions. Ensure the track is well within your physical capabilities beforehand – and all those you’re going with. TOP TIP: MetService provides New Zealand’s official weather forecasts. See www.metservice.com for warnings, short and long range forecasts and to download the mobile weather app.

details to the plan such as group members, a daily schedule and

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

any important trip notes and documents. All of this important

• Care is needed when swimming

alerts, and a gear list. The plan page offers the ability to add

information is then shared to an emergency contact and group

on New Zealand beaches. Rips

members. Find it at planmywalk.nz

are dangerous but difficult to identify so aim to swim at

ESSENTIAL SAFETY VIDEOS • The Tramping Video Series: Season 1 and 2 takes you through some of Aotearoa’s most popular tramps and walks by showcasing the track and offering advice on how to prepare and what to expect on the trip.

patrolled beaches, stay within the flags and ideally, avoid going in alone. • Always lock your car, keep

• How-To Videos: The 29 videos in the ‘Get Outdoors Series’

valuables and passports at your

detail some of the things you’ll need to know before you

accommodation and don’t leave

go. They are free to watch online and include basic outdoor

bags unattended.

survival tips. Videos can be found at: www.mountainsafety.org.nz

Visit www.aa.co.nz/travel for road trip itineraries, inspiration and accommodation options with discounts for AA members. For road rules, maps, time and distance calculations, an EV charge finder, as well as road closures, visit www.aa.co.nz

• Carry a mobile phone. In an emergency call 111.

TOHU WHENUA ARE PLACES AROUND NEW ZEALAND THAT MATTER TO KIWIS. RICH IN HISTORICAL OR CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE, VISITORS ARE PRESENTED WITH AUTHENTIC INSIGHT INTO AOTEAROA. VISIT TOHUWHENUA.NZ FOR MORE INFORMATION. WALKING MUST-DO’S 9

WALKING MUST-DO’S Tongariro Alpine Crossing © Opus Fresh Apparel Co

NEW ZEALAND’S 10 GREAT WALKS What to expect: • Multiple hours of walking per day. • DOC huts and/or campsites: no thrills, back-to-nature accommodation. • To carry your every provision for the duration: food, drink, tent, toilet roll! And more... • The unexpected. Walks are at the mercy of Mother Nature so check what’s open beforehand at www.doc.govt.nz. • An easier option: travel companies offer itineraries with guides, pre-arranged accommodation, luggage transfer services, car relocation, pre-prepared food and gear that you can hire.

Get off the wellbeaten path and sign up for an adventure. New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks are a collection of multi-day trails that pass through some of Aotearoa’s most startling landscapes.

TONGARIRO NORTHERN CIRCUIT: NORTH ISLAND IS AN ADVENTURE OF TOLKIEN PROPORTIONS Most walks on Earth don’t look like this. With desert plains that crash into red craters, steaming blisters, neon-bright lakes and three enormous volcanic peaks, this is doomsday meets the great Gates of Mordor. In fact, Mt Ngāuruhoe towers one-kilometre overhead and when it’s not brooding silently, poses for The Lord of the Rings’ fans as the ominous Mount Doom. This three-day circuit initially follows the popular Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but when the path splits, a barren, lunar-like landscape dares you to go further. For track tips Sam and Frodo could’ve done with, see page 48.

LAKE WAIKAREMOANA: NORTH ISLAND IS MAGICAL TALES ALONG MAGICAL TRAILS No one can resist the promise of a goblin forest, ethereal waterfalls and Patupaiarehe (forest fairies). Lake Waikaremoana is located in Te Urewera, an area long considered the ancestral home of the Ngāi Tūhoe tribe – the ‘Children of the Mist’, and since 2014, an independent legal identity. This means that Mother Nature is 100% in charge here. Since Tūhoe were made legal guardians of Te Urewera, the land has been allowed to flourish. It’s a highly spiritual place that fully enchants walkers over the course of three to four days.

Read the complete low-down on

Lake Waikaremoana on page 39.

WHANGANUI JOURNEY: NORTH ISLAND IS THE ONE THAT MASQUERADES AS A WALK Is there any such thing as a 150km walk where you get to sit down the entire time? In New Zealand there is. Paddling a kayak downstream, the Whanganui Journey is a three to five-day river adventure. You can find more information online at www.doc.govt.nz.

ROUTEBURN TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS LARGER THAN LIFE

How strange it is to feel so far removed from the real world, while being in the very thick of the real world. There is no phone reception along the 32km Routeburn Track; no burning emails, social posts, messages or memes. There is only nature. On any given day (there are three in total), you’ll be walking through clouds, staring into crystalline blue lakes or trailing, like ants, between enormous glacialcarved valleys. Easily the most beautiful landscape you’ll ever have the pleasure to walk through. Get ready for this worldrenowned walk and head to page

80 for more information.

KEPLER TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS MOUNTAINS FOR MILES For a trail that spends much of its time above the tree line, bathing in lofty mountainous views and never-ending panoramas, look no further than the Kepler Track. For 60km and four days, navigate knife-like ridgelines, gaze across snow-capped peaks and stare into lakes many miles below. At dusk, the sky becomes a canvas for the sun to slay with colour, and by morning mountain kea, AKA naughty alpine parrots, will be tapping at the window. These notorious thieves like to recce the area, like a feathered rendition of Ocean’s Eleven. To tackle the Kepler like a seasoned pro, see page 81.

MILFORD TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS THE FINEST WALK IN THE WORLD

Or so said poet, Blanche Baughan in 1908 having experienced the four-day, 53.5km walk for herself. Arriving here is like being plucked from modern life and deposited in an untouched pocket of the planet. From one beautiful waterfall to the next, mountain-reflecting lakes and a level of green that only nature knows how to create, Blanche may have been an expressive poet, but she didn’t exaggerate this one.

ABEL TASMAN COAST TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS A BEACH HOLIDAY WITH A DIFFERENCE

ABOVE: Abel Tasman Coast Track © Tazmin Henderson

HEAPHY TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS NATURE LIKE YOU’VE NEVER SEEN IT BEFORE If ever there were ‘Seven Natural Wonders of New Zealand’, you’d find them all on the Heaphy Track. There are nīkau palms, which means ‘no nuts’ in Māori because these nutless palm trees don’t have coconuts, and powelliphanta, giant carnivorous snails that feed on huge portions of earth worms like it’s spaghetti. There are also ruru, the native owl, and gnarly Brother Grimms-style trees called rātā, as well as fluffy kiwis, an extremely rare blue duck and the jagged peaks of the Dragons Teeth mountain range. You have 78km and four days to find them all. For help on how to make the most of Heaphy, see page 59.

PAPAROA TRACK & PIKE29 MEMORIAL TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS THE NEWEST GREAT WALK IN 25 YEARS

Feel like following in Blanche’s footsteps? Start by reading page 81.

It’s the newest Great Walk to join the repertoire, but Paparoa Track is hugely historic. From its 1930s miners hut to a 100-year-old quartz crushing battery, remnants of the past are frozen in time; none more poignant than the memorial site commemorating 29 lost lives of the Pike River explosions. Crossing the Paparoa Range on a track built for both mountain bikers and walkers, the trail climbs steeply over 55km and three days. Steadfast trampers are rewarded with river gorges, limestone cliffs and sunsets worthy of applause.

Read more on page 64.

Whereas many Great Walks are about the beech, this one’s all about the beach. With 60km of flat coastal track that ducks in and out of bay-peeking forest, togs are just as necessary as tramping boots. If the weather plays nice, you’ll be presented with one blue vista after another. Navigate various low tide crossings to reach empty beaches and surprising swimming holes such as Cleopatra’s Cove. With a fresh forest scent and near silence, save for the sound of crashing waves, this one not only looks good, it sounds and smells pretty special, too. Familiarise yourself with this track’s every detail on page 57.

RAKIURA TRACK: STEWART ISLAND IS HEAVEN FOR KIWIS AND KIWI! Stewart Island is the most untouched place New Zealand has to offer. It’s a wild droplet of Aotearoa that has eloped from the mainland but still plays host to the 32-kilometre, long-looped Rakiura Track. Unexpectedly radiant, the trail weaves in and out of verdant forest, dropping into secret beaches lapped by cobalt water. You won’t have to tramp far to find a private sliver of sand, or a preoccupied kiwi rustling in the bush. Stewart Island boasts high numbers of our flightless birds, and better still, they’re tamer than most. Find out more about this beauty on page 86. Stewart Island’s weather is very changeable and difficult to predict, so check

online before stepping out.

ABOVE: Kiwi © Orana Wildlife Park LEFT: Routeburn Track © Adobe Stock

WALKING MUST-DO’S 11

NORTHLAND

Walking Must-Do’s of Northland Ninety Mile Beach © Adobe Stock

DON'T MISS • Whangārei New Zealand’s northernmost city is blessed with a busy marina and a slick selection of restaurants, bars and the impressive new Hundertwasser Art Centre. • Whangārei Falls These 26m-high falls are just a 10-minute drive from Whangārei city. • Whale Bay Follow the bush trail from Matapōuri Bay and drop into this dazzling cove. • Bay of Islands Comprising 144 islands, many of which are accessible by water taxi, ferry or kayak, the acclaimed Hole in the Rock boat tour

and the lively hubs of Paihia and Russell. • Te Ahurea Representing life before Europeans arrived, visitors can take a self-guided tour of this recently redeveloped Māori living village, interactive pā site and gardens in Kerikeri. • Waitangi Treaty Grounds Where the original treaty was drawn up, with historic sites, marae, two state-of-the-art museums and carving studio, it’s a full day out. • Hundertwasser Memorial Park Celebrating the life and achievements of Friedensreich

Hundertwasser, find the Hundertwasser piazza near the famous toilets in Kawakawa. • Waipū is a bonny wee place with cafés and a museum. Waipū Cove is a top beach nearby. • Visit Mangawhai, a coastal paradise. • Soak in natural thermal waters at the renovated Ngāwhā Springs near Kaikohe. • The Tutukākā Coast is a haven for snorkellers and divers, boat tours frequent Poor Knights Island marine reserve and there are two sunken ex-navy vessels to explore.

RAINBOW FALLS WALK & KERIKERI RIVER TRACK 1

Paihia waterfront © Fullers GreatSights

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

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 is 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 Basic fitness, suitable for all ages Easy walking

There are several waterfalls within easy walking distance of Kerikeri. The 8km roundtrip Kerikeri Woodland River Walk includes three and can be started from the town centre, the Stone Store or points in between.

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

BAY OF ISLANDS COASTAL WALKWAY 2

TRACK OVERVIEW Set off from Paihia and head towards Ōpua. This leg of the journey takes you along the beach along a wellformed 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.

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

Where is it? 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

Fish and chips in Russell © NorthlandNZ

WALKING MUST-DO'S 13

NORTHLAND NORTHLAND TOP SPOTS © The Hundertwasser Art Centre, Whangārei

Claphams National Clock Museum, © Whangārei District Council

WHANGĀREI Whangārei is a holiday harbour with seaside cheer and as New Zealand’s most northern city, it’s also one of the warmest. Visit the popular Whangārei Falls or embark on the one-hour Hātea Walkway around the marina to see a series of sculptures. Admire native trees at AH Reed Kauri Park from the elevated treetop walk or, if you’d rather go underground, Abbey Caves are free to explore. If the weather’s inclement, check out the Hundertwasser Art Centre as well as Claphams National Clock Museum that boasts well over 2000 unusual clocks. When you're hungry, the glistening Town Basin is your go-to for alfresco dining.

CAPE RĒINGA The Cape Rēinga lighthouse stoically sits and watches 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.

BAY OF ISLANDS As picturesque as a children’s storybook, where yellow sand knocks against blue sea and rolling green hills, fiction becomes reality in the Bay of Islands. Secluded beaches saturate the mainland while 144 islands dot its waters. Board the ferry from Paihia or Russell to reach the largest motu, Urupukapuka Island. Alternatively, venture to Roberton Island/Motuarohia Island for its two pristine lagoons or walk to a quartet of beautiful bays on Moturua Island. Chartering a yacht is also popular, dolphin spotting is likely and booking a boat tour to the famed Hole in the Rock is almost obligatory. Paroa Bay Winery © DWB

Cape Rēinga © Adobe Stock

Cape Brett Track © Northland Tourism

WIND-DOWN TIME RELAX: Perched on a hillside with far-flung ocean views and streams of manicured vines, Sage restaurant at Paroa Bay Vineyard offers an indulgent escape. A 15-minute drive from Russell, the menu focuses on local produce, with regional fishmongers, orchards and farms delivering the best of it. The wine is also top quality. UNWIND: Book a boat tour from Russell or Paihia to Urupukapuka Island. Once docked at Ōtehei Bay there are gentle walks and swims to be had. A beach-side bar fronting the water, with sparkling sea views and beanbags on the grass, provides the perfect place to unwind. DINE: There’s nothing better than walking the Paihia promenade just before the sun dips, passing scores of eateries and merry holidaymakers. For a top waterside experience, Charlotte’s Kitchen’s floor-to-ceiling windows soak up sea views. While the water laps at boards beneath your feet, woodfired pizzas fly out of the kitchen.

CAPE BRETT TRACK

Where is it?

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.

Terrain

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 eight- hour, 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-hour walk. Whichever you choose, you will be serenaded by choirs of birds as you wander through regenerating native bush along spectacular undulating coastal paths.

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.

Occasionally you’ll be sheltered beneath mānuka canopies, or on exposed narrow trails, before arriving at the DOC hut.

No dogs

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

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.

WALKING MUST-DO'S 15

NORTHLAND

WALKING MUST-DO'S 17

NORTHLAND 4

HĀTEA 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'.

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

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

Terrain Almost entirely paved so accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Why not take your time? 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; a fantastic children's playground and petanque court; the Claphams National Clock Museum; and the Hundertwasser Art Centre that includes the Wairau Māori Art Gallery.

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 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.

MT MANAIA TRACK

The bush-clad mountain dominates the landscape and is irresistible to hikers who appreciate a dramatic view.

No dogs

Where is it?

2hr return; 4km return, via same track

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.

Moderate fitness required

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.

Steady and steep climb

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. 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.

• Delicious café menu & fabulous cabinet selection incl gluten free • Award-winning Fair Trade and Organic coffee blend by Chiasso • Indoor/outdoor seating overlooking river & yacht marina • Fully licensed with quick, friendly service • Open 8am – 5pm daily • Free WiFi hotspot

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6 Quayside, Town Basin P (09) 438 7557 www.mokabacafe.co.nz

WAIPŪ COASTAL WALKWAY

The beauty of this 5.3km looped walk is hinted at in the name – the coastal views come thick and fast and every new vista is a jaw dropper.

Where is it? The walk starts from Waipū Cove (or Ding Bay) just 45m from popular Waipū Beach which is 12.5km north of Mangawhai.

Terrain Jandals might be tempting when the walk is just inches from the sand, but ill-advised. The route follows a craggy coastal bluff with exposed cliff edges, whipped by the wind and an undulating, often lofty landscape. Wear sturdy shoes and take extra care of children. RIGHT: Waipū Coastal Walkway © Whangārei District Council BELOW: Arai Te Uru Heritage Walk © Adobe Stock

TRACK OVERVIEW The ocean, albeit magnificent, doesn’t steal the show on its own, on this coastal pathway. From gaps in the bluff revealing small sheltered beaches to stacks of pancake rocks and dramatic steep drops, the entire landscape dazzles. The route is stamped with plenty of picnic spots and places to fish straight off the rocks, so pack more than just your water bottle. You won’t need the agility of a mountain goat, but it is rated as moderate due to exposed tree roots and small amount of rock clambering required. Entry and exit points are found at both Waipū Cove and Ding Bay with the latter half of the loop following the main road back to the beach.

1-2hr; 5.3km loop track Moderate fitness required Steep in parts No dogs

Waipū Beach © Adobe Stock

ARAI TE URU HERITAGE WALK TRACK OVERVIEW Just up the hill from Ōmāpere is Arai Te Uru Recreational Reserve and a series of scenic walks. From the car park there is a decent 30-minute ramble to stretch your legs and invigorate the lungs, following the top of the cliffs and past the remnants of an old signal station before looping back to the start. With far-reaching views across Hokianga Harbour, the station was built to navigate ships through the treacherous passage but closed in 1951 due to dwindling seafarers. The views today remain spectacular. To extend the walk, there is an optional side-track down to Martin's Bay where large rock pools and tidal archways enthral.

Arai Te Uru is the name bestowed on the south head of Hokianga Harbour. Within its namesake reserve, several vantage points spill over the Tasman Sea drinking up views of the harbour and colossal sand dunes.

Where is it? In Hokianga Heads above Hokianga Harbour, 56km west of Kaikohe and 1.7km west of Oparara.

Terrain Suitable for children and families pushing buggies (however it’s not surfaced so expect a bumpy ride). There are a few sheer drops in places to be mindful of.

30min; 0.5km return Basic fitness required Easy walking

WALKING MUST-DO'S 19

NORTHLAND 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.

MANGAWHAI CLIFFS WALKWAY 8

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.

2-3hr return; 9km via same track Moderate fitness required Steep climb; many steps No dogs

The track linking Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway 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

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.

• 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. • Free Wi-Fi available.

2 Mangawhai Heads Rd, Mangawhai Heads • Email: stay@mhhp.co.nz

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

Terrain

TRACK OVERVIEW

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.

TOKATOKA SCENIC RESERVE TRACK 9

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 DOC 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.

TOP: Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway © Adobe Stock

Kai Iwi Lakes © Northland Tourism

KAI IWI LAKES COASTAL TRACK

TRACK OVERVIEW Start out at Kai Iwi Lakes Rd and follow the exposed coastal track across expansive farmland. Having jumped a few stiles and greeted various livestock en route, you’ll come across the Ripiro Beach lookout. New Zealand’s longest drivable beach is not the famed Ninety Mile Beach, but instead, remote Ripiro Beach, and at 106km, it is 18km longer than its Ninety Mile rival. The coastal track leads all the way to this near-empty stretch of sand and languid ambles before golden dunes await. From here, continue north along Ripiro Beach to Aranga Beach Rd (a further 1hr 30min) and step on to the windswept sands of Aranga Beach. Alternatively, you can return via the track you’ve just come and jump back into the water at Kai Iwi Lakes.

Northland’s western coastline is home to Kai Iwi Lakes, a trio of freshwater lakes fringed by ice-white beaches. The largest lake boasts tropical-coloured water, two campgrounds and sand more akin to a Caribbean island. On the east coast, you’ll also find the equally impressive Tāne Moana. As the region’s largest remaining kauri tree, this chap’s over 1000 years old with an 11m circumference. A 40-minute walk will bring you to the foot of his almighty trunk. Carry on for another 90 minutes to reach the sparkling beach at Matapōuri Bay.

As much as it’s near-impossible to peel yourself away from Kai Iwi Lakes, walk across farmland to Ripiro Beach and discover many surprising rewards.

Where is it? Located 32 minutes north from Dargaville on the west coast of Northland.

Terrain Easy walking along expansive farmland to Ripiro Beach.

30min; 2km one way with the option to continue for a further 1hr 30min; 8.2km one way Basic fitness required Easy walking to Ripiro Beach, moderately harder should you continue to Aranga Beach

No dogs

MAJESTIC GIANT TĀNE MAHUTA Waipōua Forest is the domain of New Zealand’s largest living kauri tree, Tāne Mahuta, ‘Lord of the Forest’. This imposing giant has a 13.77m girth, a trunk height of 17.68m and a total height of 51.5m. Waipōua, plus the adjoining forests of Mataraua and Waimā, make up the largest remaining tract of native forest in Northland. Tāne Mahuta’s nearest challenger is Te Matua Ngāhere, ‘Father of the Forest’. Please help protect our kauri trees from incurable Kauri Dieback Disease by keeping to the tracks, staying away from kauri roots and cleaning your gear before and after visiting. You can check which tracks are open at www.doc.govt.nz

RIGHT: Tāne Mahuta © Northland Tourism

WALKING MUST-DO'S 21

AUCKLAND

Walking Must-Do’s of Auckland Auckland © Adobe Stock

DON’T MISS • Downtown Auckland Following an extensive refurb, a new and fully pedestrianised plaza spills into Commercial Bay, a world-class hub of global shopping and modern dining. • Volcanoes No visit here is complete without scaling at least one of Auckland’s 48 volcanoes. • Britomart A cosy block of cobbled lanes and green spaces adjacent to Auckland’s main transport hub, throbbing with bars, restaurants and a weekly farmers’ market every Saturday. • Wynyard Quarter This revived waterfront precinct is brimming with harbourside eateries,

gelato parlours, surprising silos, modern play areas and funky green spaces to sit and relax. • Viaduct Harbour Discover a bustling marina of modern bars and restaurants, bordered by glamorous yachts and shimmering water. • The North Shore offers a series of delightful seaside spots, many with golden beaches, top eateries and community spirit. Further north, you’ll find Ōrewa, Pūhoi, Matakana and Leigh. • West Auckland’s premier claim to fame is the region’s succession of wild and windswept black sand beaches, such as Piha, Muriwai,

Bethells Beach, Karekare and Whatipu. • South Auckland is the king of Pacific culture. Don’t miss Mangere Food Market every Saturday and the Ōtara Flea Market. While here, visit the Auckland Botanic Gardens. • Visit the Clevedon Farmers’ Market and the Howick Historical Village in East Auckland. • Hauraki Gulf Catch the ferry to a handful of islands, from popular holiday destinations such as Great Barrier Island and Waiheke Island to bijou drops of idyll like Tiritiri Matangi, Rotoroa Island and Motutapu.

MT TAMAHUNGA WALKWAY 1

TE ARA TAHUNA ESTUARY WALKWAY

A pleasant walk to the summit of Mt Tamahunga through farmland and forest.

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.

3hr, 5km return

Some steep sections

Reasonable fitness

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW Grassy inclines are framed by pines, palms and pūriri trees. Climb through the groves to a flat section, 437m above sea level. Later, a helipad and trig mark the peak; also the site of Otamahua Pā where 200 Māori prisoners sheltered after escaping Kawau Island.

Approximately 1hr 45min; 7.5km return

Ōrewa coast © Adobe Stock BELOW: Sawmill Brewery, Matakana © Camilla Rutherford

Skirting the beautiful Ōrewa Estuary, this picturesque pathway offers an easy, flat walk for the entire family.

Where is it? The walk follows Ōrewa Estuary, a five-minute drive

Suitable for all fitness levels

south of Ōrewa town on the Hibiscus Coast.

Terrain

Easy walking

Easy, flat and family-friendly.

Good to Know

Dogs are allowed on leash

The trail path is shared by both walkers and cyclists.

TRACK OVERVIEW Don’t be alarmed if you hear the shrill of a bicycle bell, the pathway is coshared with cyclists and when the weather’s good, it’s very popular with both walkers and riders. With good reason. This family-friendly walkway is flat, wide and sealed, with plenty to see along the way including Māori carvings, mangroves and crystalline water flecked with kayakers. Follow the water’s edge and explore the natural and historical significance of the area. You’ll pass beautiful homes with spectacular gardens overlooking the estuary, as well as farmland. About halfway around, you can stop in Millwater for refreshments and the Estuary Arts Centre, at the ocean end of the estuary, is well worth a visit. Look out, too, for diverse birdlife. There are several public toilets en route; in summer, it’s a good option to take swimwear for a post-walk dip in the sea.

Estuary Arts Centre – A Creative Hub MATAKANA Matakana is just one hours’ drive north of Auckland and for those fond of a good browse, there is no better place. This small, old-world village boasts unique, intriguing shops. Discover homeware, art and boutique chocolatiers, oneof-a-kind clothing and a curated selection of Māori pieces from Unity Collection. Visit nearby vineyards, charming pubs including the Sawmill Brewery as well as the Sculptureum gardens and art galleries. An absolute Matakana must-do is the farmers’ market held every Saturday from 8am-1pm.

• Art Exhibitions • Art Classes and Workshops • School Holiday Programmes • Venue Hire • Driftwood Café 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa • P: 09 426 5570 E: manager@estuaryarts.org • www.estuaryarts.org Find us on Facebook • Open 7 days a week, 9am to 4pm

WALKING MUST-DO’S 23

AUCKLAND 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.

NORTH SHORE COASTAL WALK 3

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.

Approximately 7hr; 23.5km one way Reasonable fitness required - good shoes are crucial Footpaths, easy tramping tracks & coastal sections Dogs are allowed Devonport © Auckland Unlimited

DELIGHTFUL DEVONPORT Cradled at the base of Mt Victoria and defined by wellpreserved Victorian and Edwardian buildings, Devonport is a pretty seaside village with a fabulous collection of shops, pubs and a vintage theatre. From boutique stationers to a classic chocolatier and fragrance studio, Devonport looks, tastes and smells divine. The ferry from downtown Auckland docks here and an easy, picturesque 1.5km walk from the terminal will deposit you on the golden sands of pretty Cheltenham Beach. Cheltenham Beach, Devonport © Auckland Unlimited

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. The Mairangi Bay village is popular for lunch with several tasty options; from there press on past Murrays Bay, Rothesay Bay, Browns Bay, Waiake and Torbay before arriving at Long Bay where a swim, if you walk in warmer weather, will be welcome.

HIGHLIGHTS • Takapuna Beach has a top kids’ playground and cafés just metres from the sand. • Browns Bay runs a market every Sunday from 7am. • Explore Vaughan Historic Homestead at Long Bay Regional Park. • Jump or fish off the wharf at Murrays Bay. Murrays Bay wharf © Adobe Stock

AUCKLAND FORESHORE HERITAGE WALK 4

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

Terrain Mostly easy, flat and paved but with steep parts at either end. Couple walking along the waterfront © Auckland Unlimited

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

Steep parts at either end

Average fitness required

Dogs on leashes welcome

Mt Eden Motel

TRACK OVERVIEW Auckland wasn’t always the mecca of shiny highrises and glittering lights that you see today. Throughout history, transformation came thick and fast, and even though each century brought a wealth of change, little remnants of the past have remained in tact. Featuring ancient pā sites and old shipyards to modern suburban areas and beaches, this is an excellent walk to get to grips with Auckland’s interesting history. The walk goes through parks, past grand old homes and gardens in St Marys 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. The walk is also speckled with plaques featuring photographs and information as to how the area once looked, and because this is a self-guided walk, each sign explains how to continue onto the next section.

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WALKING MUST-DO’S 25

AUCKLAND TOP SPOTS ALONG THIS HERITAGE WALK Victoria Park Market, Auckland © Todd Eyre

PT ERIN BATHS This heritage walk begins at an historic Auckland swimming pool that families have enjoyed for the last 50 years. Only open during the summer months, the facilities include a 33m outdoor pool, diving boards, family spa, playground and a basketball court.

WESTHAVEN MARINA The Westhaven Promenade is a pretty waterside boardwalk winding its way from the Viaduct and under the Harbour Bridge to Herne Bay, passing scores of boats. The route is peppered with wooden sun loungers, small but surprising green lawns and a lick of sand. Hire an electric bike from Flux at the Sails Restaurant. Westhaven Marina © Chris McLennan

VICTORIA PARK MARKET Set in a cluster of historic buildings, this market is a great place to refuel and relax. Home to 40 shops, cafés and restaurants, you’ll find it open 10am to 4pm every day.

SILO PARK The six silos at the end tip of Wynyard Quarter were once used as giant containers to store cement. Silo 6 is now an art and exhibition space while Silo 7 comes alive throughout summer when free Friday night movies are projected onto its enormous cylinder.

PARNELL ROSE GARDENS They’re in full bloom throughout summer and autumn. Even when they are not in flower, this is an idyllic spot to spread your picnic blanket.

Explore n ature AT AUCKLAND BOTANIC GARDENS

20MINS

from Auckland airport or city centre

Enjoy native forest on the Puhinui Stream Forest trail

The full trail is a 4km loop (approx. 2 hours at a leisurely pace) with shorter walk options available. Head up to the visitor centre at Auckland Botanic Gardens to pick up a brochure then hit the trail! Bring a picnic to enjoy on the trail or grab a bite at Café Miko in our visitor centre. Free admission, open daily. 102 Hill Road, Manurewa, Auckland. Phone 09 267 1457. aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz 26

22-PRO-0259

Winding through babbling streams and nīkau palm groves, this trail links Auckland Botanic Gardens and Tōtara Park.

AUCKLAND BOTANIC GARDENS Where ideas grow

TRACK OVERVIEW

COAST TO COAST WALKWAY 5

Fernery, Auckland Domain © Adobe Stock

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

Britomart features glass domes peering down at the train tracks below; historic buildings frame its central paved courtyard between high-end shops and slick cafés, many with outdoor seating. Nearby is Commercial Bay, a world-class hub of international shopping and dining spread over several floors. Come nightfall, busy bars blossom and trendy food precinct Snickel Lane lights up. La Cigale French market pops up between 8am and 1pm on Saturday and Sundays.

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.

Dogs on leashes welcome 5hr; 16km Reasonable fitness required

City streets, parks and bush tracks. Rangitoto Island © Todd Eyre

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

RANGITOTO SUMMIT TRACK 6

TRACK OVERVIEW This is an easy climb through pōhutukawa forest and lava fields to a peak 260m above sea level. When you reach the summit of this 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.

advised if you’ll be exploring the lava fields, as some areas can be uneven.

Coastal Track This 4.5km track runs from Rangitoto Wharf to Islington Bay Wharf and passes many old boatsheds and baches and ruins of World War II storage areas. This is a popular walk for swimmers and those looking to picnic for lunch. 2hr 30min one way. Reasonable fitness required.

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

WALKING MUST-DO’S 27

AUCKLAND

WAIHEKE ART WALKING TRAIL 7

TRACK OVERVIEW Start this easy but picturesque walk as soon as you alight the ferry at Matiatia terminal on Waiheke Island. Stroll along the foreshore to the Atawhai Whenua bush reserve track. A trail of shady forest emerges 15-minutes later on the main road where you can then nip into Alison Park. Overlooking Blackpool valley, the fields are

scattered with sculptures from bygone Sculpture on the Gulf exhibitions. Opposite Alison Park is the Artworks Centre, featuring Whittaker’s Musical Museum, the Waiheke Community Art Gallery, complete with its gorgeous gallery shop, and arguably the island’s finest piece of architecture: the local library. Amble on to Oneroa

village where you’ll find the Toi Gallery. The venue is owned by two artists and is brimming with dramatic installations and contemporary sculptures. Don’t miss the amazing Tivoli Art Gallery which is also a specialist bookstore. From here, drop down to Oneroa Beach and walk over the rocks to Little Oneroa Beach (low tide only). Check out John Freeman’s ancient kauri sculpture studio or sit and rest on the sand.

JAZ

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WAIHEKE

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A relaxed 3km family-friendly amble which offers plenty of stops at sandy bays, art spots and lookout points.

Where is it? The north-west coast of Waiheke Island. Accessed via a 40-minute ferry trip from downtown Auckland.

Dogs permitted but must be kept under control

2hr one way; 3km Suitable for all fitness levels Easy walking

Terrain A relaxed trail through natural bush, park and wetland using wellformed pathways. Some coastal and roadside walking is required, with mild inclines.

Although Waiheke Island 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.

Waiheke BACKPACKERS HOSTEL Auckland Council’s Waiheke Backpackers Hostel is the perfect place to explore Waiheke. Enjoy the many walking tracks, beaches, cafes, restaurants and our amazing views across Onetangi Beach. We have a range of rooms plus BBQ and free Wi-Fi. 421 Seaview Road, Onetangi. Phone 09 372 7003

AUCKLAND COUNCIL HOLIDAY PLACES Book your escape today aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/holidayplaces 28

TE ATATŪ PENINSULA WALKWAY 8

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.

1hr; 4km

Where is it?

Basic fitness required

Te Atatū Peninsula, Orangihina Park, West Auckland.

Terrain

Easy walking

Boardwalks, concrete paths, gravel. Would suit sturdy strollers.

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

HŪNUA FALLS LOOP TRACK

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.

TRACK OVERVIEW

While you’re out west, take the time to explore. This spectacular region is bordered by a stunning wild coastline and rainforest. There is plenty on offer, from wineries, lively cafés and some of the best surf in Auckland, to secluded black-sand beaches including Piha, Te Henga Bethells, Muriwai and Karekare – all perfect for a walk guaranteed to blow away the cobwebs. A highlight of the region is the gannet colony at Muriwai’s Ōtakamiro 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 in Titirangi, and a plethora of fun family activities including Whoa! Studios – a film studio, puppet show, playground and restaurant combined.

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

HŪNUA RANGES REGIONAL PARK Explore the largest area of native forest in Auckland. There are dozens of walks, three bike tracks, beautiful Hūnua Falls and decent fishing at Mangatangi and Mangatāwhiri reservoirs. Due to kauri dieback disease, some tracks have been closed. Visit: aucklandcouncil. govt.nz/protectkauri for more info on closures.

LEFT: Te Henga Beach, West Auckland TOP: Hūnua Falls, East Auckland BOTH: © Auckland Unlimited

WALKING MUST-DO’S 29

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & TAIRĀWHITI GISBORNE

Walking Must-Do’s of The Coromandel, Bay of Plenty & Tairāwhiti Gisborne Sunrise in Gisborne © Adove Stock

DON’T MISS • Mt Maunganui Summit the mount in roughly 40 minutes, frequent the cafés and sink into the hot pools at this lively, seaside resort.

• One hour from Whitianga wharf, seven motu make up the Mercury Islands. Day trips sail to sugary-white beaches and snorkelling spots.

• The Coromandel Peninsula is teeming with seafood. Charter boats facilitate visits to mussel farms and snapper fishing.

• Indulge at The Lost Spring in Whitianga.

• Straddling Otiki Hill above East Cape Lighthouse, the North Island’s easternmost point, catching sunrise here is pure magic. • Waipaoa River Valley Sitting just northwest of Gisborne and celebrated for its grape growing. Multiple wine tours, including those by bike.

• Learn about Waihi’s gold-mining history at the award-winning Waihi Gold Discovery Centre. • Take a vintage train journey on the Goldfields Railway through the Karangahake Gorge.

• Hot Water Beach For two hours either side of low • Moutohora Island/Whale Island Take a guided tide, make a hole in the sand and wait for the hot tour of the country’s most protected wildlife water to seep in for your own DIY jacuzzi. sanctuaries and bathe at a hot water beach. • Cathedral Cove Walk the coast on an easy 90-minute amble to this cove’s famed archway. • Whenuakura Island/Donut Island Offshore from Whangamata, a little cove of tropical splendour hides inside a collapsed blowhole.

• Soak in Te Aroha’s soothing hot springs. • Cycle the 160km Hauraki Rail Trail from Kaiaua to Matamata. Historic sights are plentiful. • Visit The Burial Tree, a 2000-year-old pūriri tree found in Hukutaia Domain in Ōpotiki.

Northern Coromandel • LOWER LEFT: Cape Colville BOTH: © Destination Coromandel

COROMANDEL COASTAL WALKWAY

3.5hr; 10km one way Reasonable fitness required Some steep sections No dogs Continued on p.32 >

Stride 10km of glorious coast and bush tracks across the northern end of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Where is it? Start at Stony Bay, about an hour from Colville township, heading towards Fletcher Bay.

OTAUTU BAY FARM CAMP ON THE POHUTUKAWA COAST

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.

TOP OF THE PENINSULA The Coromandel Coastal Walkway accesses the peninsula’s most isolated northern reaches. Colville, on the west of the peninsula is home to artists and crafters; further north is Ōtautu Bay with a campsite that is a gem. It’s enveloped by a working farm and is near a safe, swimming beach. Port Jackson, Stony and Fletcher bays all have delightful DOC campgrounds and for a special treat, book in at the Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat in Port Charles.

• 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 $17 per adult per night, children (5-14yrs incl) $9 per night per child. $8 per night extra for power. Unit and lodge seasonal rates apply. Prices subject to change. Port Jackson Port Charles

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

WALKING MUST-DO’S 31

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & TAIRĀWHITI GISBORNE Coromandel Town © Adobe Stock

THE COROMANDEL If you need respite from the gogo-go, The Coromandel provides escapism by the bucket-load. With long stretches of near-empty beaches and vast expanses of water perfect for pleasure boats, when you’re looking to disconnect, The Coromandel is the kind of place where you can live in your togs and live out your dreams. Coromandel Town is perfectly peaceful, too. It’s laid-back and friendly; when in need of a little harmony, make a beeline here.

> Continued from p.31

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 down to Mt Moehau rising high above 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.

Harbour View Motel Coromandel

Oyster feast in Coromandel © Matt Crawford

HOT WATER BEACH Hot tubs and sea views are the forte of five-star hotels, right? Not so in The Coromandel. In these parts, such luxuries are compliments of Mother Nature. Hot Water Beach is one of New Zealand’s most popular natural wonders. For two hours either side of low tide, digging out a hole in the sand will allow naturally hot water to fill your own, private jacuzzi. With the sea just inches away, the views from your home-made spa are stupendous – and free! If you’re planning on a swim in the surf, be aware that there are dangerous rips here. It’s best to stick between the flags when lifeguards are on duty. Hot Water Beach © Adobe Stock

All Harbour View units have decks with a view ok or Bo ct f ates e R Dir est B

• Peace & quiet • Private deck • Spa pool • Free WiFi • Overlooking harbour • Kayaks & bike use • 6 spacious self-contained units • All units have SKY Guest Select & air-conditioning/heat pumps • Continental breakfast available

25 Harbour View Rd, Coromandel Ph/Fax: +64 7 866 8690 E: harbourviewmotelltd@xtra.co.nz

Visit: www.harbourviewmotelltd.co.nz 32

Cathedral Cove arch RIGHT: New Chums Beach BOTH: © Adobe Stock

CATHEDRAL COVE WALK

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

Where is it? Grange Rd, 2km from Hahei or 35km from Whitianga.

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

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

90min return; 2.5km Average fitness required Undulating with some steps No dogs

Continued on p.34 >

NEW CHUM BEACH

A little effort is required but emerging from native bush onto New Chum Beach is like discovering a tropical island; clear blue-green water and golden sand welcomes those who tackle the 30-minute walk. Park at the end of Mangakāhia Dr in Whangapoua and clamber over the rocky headland before picking up a track that drops on to the heavenly beach.

Reservations:

PENINSULA 0508 887 755

MOTEL

• Family park opposite estuary beach • Walk to shops, cafes/restaurants • Swimming pool, kayak hire, playground, kitchen, laundry, TV room, dump station, WIFI • Large sites, cabins & self contained cabins. • Tariff: $40 - $185 (For best prices, book direct) 135 Albert St, Whitianga • P: +64 7 869 5152 • E: harboursideholidaypark@gmail.com

www.harboursideholidaypark.co.nz

• 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.

Newly refurbished 2020

• Close to activity departures. • 2min walk to town, restaurants & cafés. • Kiwi owned and operated – for a real Kiwi experience. • Tariff: (2p) $120-$240, depending on time of year.

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

WALKING MUST-DO’S 33

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & TAIRĀWHITI GISBORNE > Continued from p.33

TRACK OVERVIEW

KAUAERANGA KAURI TRAIL (PINNACLES WALK) 3

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 if it’s summer take sunscreen, drinking water and your swimsuit.

WHITIANGA Holiday mode starts now. Kick back and enjoy the café culture in Whitianga town centre, then book a boat excursion to Mercury Bay or hire an e-bike, take it on the 10-minute ferry between Whitianga and Ferry landing, and zip up the coast to Hahei Beach and Cathedral Cove. No bike? No worries. Enjoy the walk to secluded Cooks Beach, just 40 minutes each way. Later, stroll along the esplanade at Buffalo Beach and venture to The Lost Spring, where all-natural hot lagoons are fed from water sources 667m below the ground. If you have family in tow, children love the petting zoo at Whiti Farm Park and Mill Creek Bird and Animal Encounters is just 10 minutes out of Whitianga with a huge range of exotic and native birds.

Beautiful sweeping views, fascinating history and extraordinary native forest.

1-2 days

Where is it? In the Kauaeranga Valley, 13km east of Thames.

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

Escape to

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.

WHITIANGA’S GEO-THERMAL OASIS W H ITIANGA’S G EO –TH E R MAL OAS I S

Geo-Thermal Pools Geo-Thermal Pools

Cocktails, Poolside Cocktails, Poolside Dining&&Restaurant Restaurant Dining

121A Cook Drive, Whitianga 3510,

Check Website For Opening Hours The Coromandel Peninsula, www.thelostspring.co.nz New Zealand

No dogs

ABOVE: Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (Pinnacles walk) © Coromandel Tourism

TRACK OVERVIEW

DaySpa Spa Day

+64 (07) 866 0456 www.thelostspring.co.nz

Challenging walk

Good to know

Escape to The LostSpring Spring The Lost

+64 (07) 866 0456

Good fitness level required

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

Supervised children 14 years & over welcome

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 (810hr) and make a loop. This ruggedly spectacular walk is one of the country’s most popular overnight adventures.

TE AROHA SUMMIT TRACK

One to bolster your fitness levels as well as provide a good workout for your camera. The views from the summit are spectacular.

Where is it? Te Aroha, 55km north-east of Hamilton and 75km/one hour north-west of Tauranga.

Terrain Steep, hard and rough. Wear sturdy footwear and expect to negotiate an old mining rail track, complete with discarded machinery.

3hr one way; 3.9km Average fitness required Undulating with some steps No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW

KARANGAHAKE GORGE HISTORIC WALKWAY 4

TRACK OVERVIEW 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 manmade 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.

Three hours into this uphill ascent and the track emerges at the summit of Mt Te Aroha. You’re in for a big, scenic reveal. Delivering 360-degree views across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty, on a clear day you’ll see as far as Taranaki. Starting out from the Mokena Geyser in the Te Aroha Domain, the trail initially ascends relatively pleasantly for 45 minutes, soon reaching the Whakapipi Lookout for views over the patchwork quilt of the Hauraki Plains. From here, the track rapidly intensifies: a solid two-hour grunt to the summit which, as the highest point on the Kaimai-Mamaku range, stands 952m-high. On the way up, expect dense bush littered with fallen trees and a relentless gradient hell-bent on making your thighs scream. The return descent retraces the same track downhill but is noticeably quicker. If your muscles are feeling the drudge, you’ll be heartened to know Te Aroha’s soothing natural hot springs sit at the mountain’s base.

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.

45min loop; 2.5km or 4hr loop; 7km Walk to suit every fitness level Easy walking Dogs on a lead permitted ABOVE: Karangahake Gorge © Adobe Stock

WALKING MUST-DO’S 35

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & TAIRĀWHITI GISBORNE Mt Maunganui © Adobe Stock

MT MAUNGANUI (MAUAO) SUMMIT WALK 6

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.

40min to reach 232m peak Reasonable fitness required Steep walk

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

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

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

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?

0800 555 353

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. Sites from $48, cabins from $100 (1-2 p). Seasonal rates apply.

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

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

www.atlasatthemount.co.nz

POO

MARINE PARADE MAUN GANUI RD TH

ONS AV E GRACE AVE

HOT

AVE

COMM

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

MOU

ADAMS

Only 300m from beaches, harbour, Mt Drury, playground, shops, restaurants, cafés, Mt Maunganui and thermally heated pools.

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

BAY OF PLENTY HIGHLIGHTS Tauranga town © Bay of Plenty Tourism

TAURANGA When you’re all beached-out, Tauranga steps in to entertain. It’s a great year-round destination, with an eclectic mix of restaurants and cafés, museums, galleries, parks and gardens. Don’t miss the Tauranga Art Gallery, with its modern façade and provocative artworks. Playful sculptures at Te Puna Quarry Park fascinate both adults and children alike, while the city’s historic village on 17th Avenue West is an enclave of modern shops in vintage buildings. For active pursuits, McLaren Falls Park is a 20-minute drive from Tauranga with walkways, a waterfall and kayaking on Lake McLaren, which leads to Mangapapa Canyon, a narrow ravine.

PĀPĀMOA/PĀPĀMOA BEACH Just a 15-minute drive from its big sister Mt Maunganui, Pāpāmoa offers a totally different holiday experience. There are no crowds, little traffic and the nightlife is subdued. Enjoy the tranquillity and the sound of the waves tumbling gently on the warm golden sands. Parents love the laid-back atmosphere and there’s plenty to keep the kids happy. While entire days can be enjoyed on Pāpāmoa’s beach, there are plentiful active options. If you need an adrenalin rush, try blokarting on a three-wheel land yacht. The Pāpāmoa Hills Regional Park/Te Rae o Pāpāmoa overlooks the beach and boasts views from Mt Maunganui to Whakatāne. There’s a network of walking and running tracks to explore here, open daily from 6.30am to 7pm in winter and until 9pm in the summer.

MT MAUNGANUI

Mt Maunganui © Adobe Stock

www.oceanwaves.co.nz

For those not inclined to tackle the incline, Mauao also boasts a scenic, 3.5km mostly flat walkway around its base. Drink up the non-stop ocean views and then celebrate your lap with a coffee at one of the bustling beachside cafés. Mt Maunganui is a resortlike town with an array of restaurants, shops and bars.

Moments of Wine & Unwind.

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

74 Marine Parade

STAY AT TASMAN HOLIDAY PARKS - PAPAMOA BEACH

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

RESERVATIONS: 0800 743 019

Sip, unwind and find your moment of relaxation overlooking the ocean at Tasman Holiday Parks - Papamoa Beach. TASMANHOLIDAYPARKS.COM /WALK

S:TXZ6

WALKING MUST-DO’S 37

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & TAIRĀWHITI GISBORNE

NGĀ TAPUWAE O TOI WALKWAY 7

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

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 Strong fitness required Climbing with steps Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Walkway © Bay of Plenty Tourism

TRACK OVERVIEW 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. 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 KapuTe-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.

he ground beneath your feet is the homeland of the Tūhoe people and very sacred. Keep watch for Patupaiarehe. Māori tradition states these fairy-like people live in misty forest and mountaintops.

Lake Waikaremoana © Hawke’s Bay Tourism

3-4 days; 46km one way Moderate to high fitness required

Where is it? Located within Te Urewera National Park, 80km from Gisborne and 163km south of Rotorua.

LAKE WAIKAREMOANA TRACK 8

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.

Undulating terrain

Terrain The track initially follows the lake edge and is uneven in places. Some steady climbs follow.

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW 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

Awakeri

HOT SPRINGS The perfect place

to explore the Bay of Plenty

Nestled within Te Urewera National Park, the Lake Waikaremoana hike is a Great Walk and multi-day excursion that takes in valleys, peaks and lakes. It can be completed year-round but excels in summer when swimming in the lake proves irresistible. This unique Great Walk is managed by local iwi (Maori community), the Tūhoe and the land is critical to their turangawaewae (sense of identity). The mountainous Te Urewera region was the first natural feature in New Zealand law to be recognised as a legal entity in its own right.

Although you’ll predominately skirt the lake’s shoreline for four days, be aware that the route is not a complete circuit. The changing landscape combines streams, steep ridge climbs, tunnellike forest trails and rolling valleys of beech, podocarp and kāmahi shrub. All along the route you’ll likely witness a community of fantail, tomtit and kererū, and hear an orchestra of bellbird and tūī. Come nightfall, calls of the North Island brown kiwi trill from the darkness.

COOKS COVE WALKWAY 2hr 30min; 5.8km return

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

Medium fitness required

Where is it?

Some hill climbing

At the southern end of Tolaga Bay, 52km from Gisborne. Take SH 35 and turn off at Wharf Rd.

Terrain

No dogs - part on private farmland

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

TRACK OVERVIEW • 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

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.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 39

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

Walking Must-Do’s of Central North Island Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland © Adobe Stock

DON’T MISS • Rotorua is New Zealand’s most active geothermal area, with spewing geysers, bubbling mud pools and steaming parks. • Adrenalin pumping thrills in Rotorua include the Skyline luge, ziplining, zorbing and the exhilarating Redwoods Altitude journey. • Top walks in Rotorua include the Redwoods Treewalk and Nightwalk and the 26km Rotorua Walkway. • Experience a living Māori village in Rotorua, or the fictional world of Hobbiton just down the road from Matamata.

• Lake Taupō is roughly the size of Singapore and • Visit Hamilton Zoo, the city’s excellent Botanic a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. The incredible Gardens and Zealandia Tea Estate. Huka Falls are nearby. • Delve below Aotearoa at Waitomo, home to an • Experience one of New Zealand’s Great Walks: extensive underground network of caves. The Whanganui Journey. It’s actually a 145km • Walk or cycle the Waikato River Trails. stretch of water, navigated by canoe or kayak. • See Kiwiana displays and kiwis in Ōtorohanga. • Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park and hosts three significant volcanoes: Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngāuruhoe. • Raglan is a small but lively seaside village with bohemian flare and countless surfers. • Cycle the Ohakune Old Coach Road trail.

• Kāwhia has a beautiful harbour and surf beach. • Visit the largest pest-proof fenced project in the world at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari near Cambridge. • A wealth of top tramping tracks await in the Pirongia Forest Park.

Hamilton Lake © Adobe Stock

HAMILTON LAKE WALKWAY 1

From gentle strolls to lakeside jogs with dogs in tow, picnics under your arm and bread for the ducks, Hamilton Lake provides an inner-city walk that everyone can enjoy.

Where is it? In the very heart of Hamilton city and 1.5km from the CBD.

Terrain Flat boardwalks and open pathways with toilets, bins and water fountains.

Good to Know The walkway can be accessed from various points, with the main car parks situated by Ruakiwi Rd and Lake Crescent (Innes Common).

1hr; 3.8km Walk to suit every fitness level Easy walking Dogs on a leash

TRACK OVERVIEW Hamilton Lake, or Lake Rotoroa as it’s officially known, welcomes every visitor. A huge playground and waddling ducks are always a big hit with children, while the flat walkway won’t tax little legs. Over the course of one hour you’ll pass vast, treedotted parkland on the western side and a bustling café and covered picnic area on the east. Dogs are also welcome, although they need to be on a lead. There is a small off-lead space near the yacht club, and the café’s alfresco area is a favourite hangout for canines. Whether you escape here for an hour or spend the entire day by the water, Hamilton Lake is the ideal option for an easy walk in the heart of Hamilton city.

HOBBITON Take a tour of the film set and sit down for a drink that would quench even a Hobbit’s thirst at Green Dragon™ Inn.

HAMILTON GARDENS Travel the entire world in one afternoon at Hamilton Gardens. With everything from Italian Renaissance shrubbery to a traditional English garden and Indian Char Bagh Garden, it’s a sensation for the senses. The latest addition is the Surrealist Garden, a trippy, Alice-in-Wonderland-style arrangement. Better yet, entry is free.

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. Hobbiton™ Movie Set © Ian Brodie

waikatonz.com/walking WALKING MUST-DO’S 41

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

WAIRĒINGA/BRIDAL VEIL FALLS 2

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.

10min to lookout; 0.5km

Wairēinga/Bridal Veil Falls © Adobe Stock

A private hideaway, just 2 minutes to our beautiful beach walks and 5 minutes to town!

Basic fitness required 300 steps to bottom of falls 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.

No swimming

WANT MORE? The Wainui Reserve Bush Park is home to a network of trails weaving through native bush, across farmland and down onto Ngarunui Beach.

Raglan surfing © Camilla Rutherford

Accommodation for groups & individuals. Karioi is a beautiful walk just 20 minutes drive from town, 3 to 6 hours walk from Te Toto Gorge to Karioi Road, off Ruapuke Road. Address: 61 Marine Parade, Raglan • Phone: (07) 825 8283 Email: stay@raglanholidaypark.co.nz

www.raglanholidaypark.co.nz 42

SEASIDE & SURF RAGLAN Raglan’s beaches are arguably its most famous feature. There’s a beach to suit everyone, from black-sand expanses to enjoy sunset walks on and calm stretches perfect for family swims, to wild territory best suited to experienced surfers. The best spots for a tussle with the waves are Ngarunui Beach, Manu Bay, Whale Bay and Ruapuke Beach.

CAMBRIDGE TO KARĀPIRO TE AWA WALK 3

Waikato countryside © Adobe Stock

Take a journey through world-class sport.

Where is it? This walk sets off from the Avantidrome in Hanlin Road, Cambridge and ends at Lake Karāpiro.

Terrain Easy walk that is mildly undulating in parts and suitable for all fitness levels.

3hr 30min; 15.2km Walk to suit every fitness level Mostly easy walking Dogs on a leash

Book a ‘Have a Go’ session with a top cycling coach at the Avantidrome Cycling Velodrome or if you prefer, just sit and spectate.

TRACK OVERVIEW It all begins at the international Velodrome – New Zealand’s finest cycling facility. This section starts with a short 3.5km section into Cambridge which is a good place to refuel. There is a short on-road section through Victoria Street, winner of the 2020 Most Beautiful Street award, until you cross historic Victoria Bridge to the other side of town onto the Trail to the lake. It is all sign-posted so you can’t get lost.

LOVELY CAMBRIDGE The town has a long history of producing talented sportspeople, particularly in the equestrian, rowing and cycling fields. It’s no surprise because Cambridge is home to beautiful countryside, a network of cycle trails including the renowned Te Awa Cycleway, and nearby, Lake Karāpiro. If adventure is on your agenda, hire a bicycle and take to one of several tracks in the area weaving through native bush and alongside the rushing Waikato River. Lake Karāpiro offers kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and the thrill of jet boating further downstream. Enjoy the town at a slower pace by taking a guided tour to discover Cambridge’s historical buildings including the Cambridge Museum, the town’s former courthouse, and the Cambridge Town Hall. Pick up fresh, artisan goodies from the weekly farmers’ market held in Victoria Square or sit in one of the many cafés dishing up delicious food and coffee, or inside the converted church which is now Good Union – where Hamilton’s Good George Brewing empire has expanded to. Cambridge Town Hall © Waikato Hamilton Tourism

Once you’re on the other side in Leamington, Te Awa takes you past the homes to some of the country’s finest thoroughbreds – past and present – with many horse studs along Maungatautari Road. You then arrive at Lake Karāpiro, where its now all about boats.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 43

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

MT PIRONGIA SUMMIT VIA MAHAUKURA TRACK

Mt Pirongi a Summit © Adobe Stock

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

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.

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

No dogs, this is kiwi and kōkako country

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.

Exploring the caves in Waitomo © Discover Waitomo

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

Above ground in Waitomo Once you’ve found what’s lurking beneath Waitomo, resurface for some above-ground exploration. Mangapohue Natural Bridge is 30 minutes west of Waitomo village and features a 17m-high natural arch over Mangapohue Stream. Allow 20 minutes to walk the 700m loop.

WAITOMO

WOODLYN PARK

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

Voted as one of the TOP 10 Most Unique Accommodation in the World • Cave unit built into the hill • World War II antisubmarine patrol boat • 1918 steam train • Bristol Freighter Plane • Free WiFi in units • Conference venue for hire

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

WALKING MUST-DO’S 45

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

Where is it? Start at the Blue Lake car park at the 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.

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

A good walk warrants a reward. Feed your stomach at Rotorua’s Eat Streat, a strip of international dining venues, complete with retractable roof and heated flooring, or soak your muscles in mineral water. ‘Secret Spot’ features private cedar hot tubs hidden in the Whakarewarewa Forest.

Handy to know Blue Lake © Mark Smith

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

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.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 47

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

GREAT LAKE WALKWAY 75

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 8

No dogs 3-4 days; 43km Moderate-high fitness required

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.

Can be steep at times Season: Late Oct to late Apr

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

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

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.

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.

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

Mt Ngāuruhoe © Adobe Stock

TRACK OVERVIEW Dogs are permitted 2hr one way; 10km one way Basic fitness required Easy walking

Tongariro Northern Circuit is a Great Walk and 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 beech-forested 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.

Lake Taupō © Adobe Stock

Ohakune TOP 10 Holiday Park 0800 825 825 5 Moore Street, Ohakune

A beautiful bush setting with the mountain stream flowing freely along the Park offering a truly tranquil camping experience. Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites BBQ Area • Playground • WiFi • Spa Bath • Spa Pool • Jumping Pillow • Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle pick up from Park

Tongariro Alpine Crossing © Graeme Murray

TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING 9

No dogs 7-9hr one way; 19.4km one way Strong fitness required Steep with many steps

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 1887m 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 when there are only two or three hundred people on the track each day.

inding its way past Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe, this 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.

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.

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS

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

Need to know 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. Taihape Town Hall © Adobe Stock

• Tūrangi is home to the Tongariro National Trout Centre that is run by DOC. 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.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 49

LOWER NORTH ISLAND

Walking Must-Do’s of Lower North Island

Bowl of Brooklands, Taranaki © Adobe Stock

DON'T MISS • Hawke’s Bay has many vineyards and paths that link wineries, allowing walkers and cyclists to tour the area safely. • Cape Kidnappers cliffs are home to the world's largest mainland colony of gannets. • Napier is well known for its art deco architecture and annual art deco festival which erupts every February to celebrate the era. • Te Mata Peak dominates an otherwise flat landscape and in Napier itself, the National Aquarium is home to some of New Zealand’s

most precious species. • Surf Highway 45 has wild surf breaks between New Plymouth and Hāwera. While in Hāwera, call in to the Tawhiti Museum. • Experienced hikers will be drawn to the summit of Mt Taranaki/Mt Egmont. • In New Plymouth, see the Wind Wand and Te Rewa Rewa bridge on the 12.7km awardwinning coastal walkway. While here, don’t miss the Puke Ariki museum, the GovettBrewster Art Gallery, and the many gorgeous

gardens including Pukeiti and Tupare. • Wellington is our cool little capital with more sass than its small scale might suggest. Visit the Te Papa Museum and parliament buildings; jump aboard the cable car and tour Weta Workshop (the talent behind The Lord of The Rings’ orcs, goblins and much more). • He Ara Kotahi is Palmerston North's newest riverside pathway and worth a visit. • Take a historic boat cruise up the Whanganui River on either the Waimarie or the MV Wairua.

AN INITIATIVE OF VENTURE TARANAKI

Federal Store

Pouakai Crossing

YOUR TARANAKI ADVENTURE AWAITS Pair endless tracks and trails with a towering mountain, beautiful gardens with decadent dining, and rich culture with world class modern art. It’s all here in Taranaki – a region like no other.

taranaki.co.nz/visit

It’s just around the corner! WALKING MUST-DO'S 51

LOWER NORTH ISLAND 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 Reasonable fitness required – moderately challenging walk

Pouakai Crossing, Egmont National Park © Adobe Stock

TRACK OVERVIEW The track is well-formed 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 DOC website.

Explore

South Taranaki Egmont Street, Pātea (06) 273 8354 | museum@stdc.govt.nz

Cnr of Waihi Road and High Street, Hāwera

Explore the beau�ful Lake Rotokare, hike up the mountain or enjoy one of our several mul�-use pathways

55 High St, Hāwera (06) 278 8599 | visitorinfo@stdc.govt.nz www.southtaranaki.com 52

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 Email: info@tawhitimuseum.co.nz Website: www.tawhitimuseum.co.nz Traders & Whalers website: www.tradersandwhalers.co.nz •Opening hours on website •Cafe on site

Scan here

DAWSON FALLS WALKING TRACKS

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.

Where is it? 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.

Kapuni Loop 1hr; 1.4km Wilkies Pool Loop 80min; 1.9km Ridge Loop 80min; 1.9km

Did you know?

Basic fitness required

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.

Some steps

BRIDGE TO NOWHERE WALK

The 1.9km Wilkies Pools Loop Track takes you to a series of pools carved out of ancient lava flow. If you're here in summer, 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. LEFT: Dawson Falls © Ed Aish BELOW: Bridge to Nowhere © Visit Ruapehu

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

Where is it?

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

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.

If you have a head for heights, lean slightly over the bridge to catch sight of monstrous eels skulking in the river below. Information panels flank one end of the bridge, where there's also a convenient picnic bench.

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.

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

No dogs, unless you have a DOC permit WALKING MUST-DO'S 53

LOWER NORTH ISLAND

MANAWATŪ GORGE TAWA LOOP WALK 4

TRACK OVERVIEW 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 and come across a carving of Māori warrior Whatonga.

BIG REDWOODS TRACK (TE MATA PEAK) 5

HAWKE'S BAY Welcome to an oasis of R&R, wine, art deco and seaside radiance, where handsome 1930s-era buildings spill onto natty seaside boardwalks and the razzle-dazzle runs far. It would be wise to loosen a belt notch; even the walking trails lead to restaurant doors and vineyards around here.

Go with the flow

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

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.

The Manawatū River is the only river to flow from Hawke's Bay to the west coast, travelling 105km west rather than 40km east. Why? It’s understood that the river existed before the Tararua Mountain Ranges were formed.

Terrain

2hr; 4km loop

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

Medium fitness required Some climbing

No dogs

Te Mata Peak © Adobe Stock

EXPLORE MANAWATŪ The Manawatū region covers a large area including the Palmerston North. Culture vultures should explore the Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and History here, while those still in hiking boots can stride along the Manawatū River Pathway, a 10km riverside walk. Also here is Massey University which adds a lovely bookish ambience to the area. Visit Feilding, a 20-minute drive from Palmerston North, a little nugget of niceness that has won New Zealand's most beautiful town a whopping 16 times. A tour of the Feilding Saleyards is a must-do.

154 Park Road Palmerston North

Phone - +64 6 356 7077 Fax - +64 6 356 7030

WATCH VIDEO

3 Safe bike storage 3 Close to Manawatu River Bridle Track 3 Adjacent sports grounds & Esplanade Park 3 Quiet location off main street 3 Pet-friendly by arrangement 3 WiFi, HD LCD TVs, SKY & DVD players 3 Breakfasts available 3 Walking distance (900m) to most civic amenities & CBD 3 Tariff: $135-$329 (1-2 persons) P ho n e Peak rates may apply

RESERVATIONS - 0800 BIG FIVE Host - Jenni Anderson

D ir e c t f o r Be st P r ic es

stay@bigfivemotel.co.nz • www.bigfivemotel.co.nz

There’s something undeniably magic about venturing into this large grove of Californian redwood trees.

Where is it? The track starts out from the Main Gates Car Park at the base of Te Mata Peak, 7km from Havelock North in the Hawke’s Bay.

Terrain Mostly flat but a little unlevel in places due to exposed tree roots. It can also be slippery especially after rain so sturdy footwear is recommended.

1hr; 2.7km one way Average fitness required Mostly flat Dogs are allowed on tracks only

TRACK OVERVIEW It’s inevitable, when standing beneath a mob of 40m-high Californian redwood trees, you’ll strain, probably in vain, to see to the bristles of their faraway treetops. It has an almost dizzying effect, but when you’re cradled inside an army of enormous trunks, it’s also like receiving a giant, nature-sized hug. This track is the shortest and most direct pathway to see the redwood grove. Kids especially enjoy the looped 2.7km/ one-hour walk that weaves a route through this giants’ kingdom on the outskirts of Havelock North. It’s rugged yet mostly flat, spread across the lower slopes of Te Mata Peak along well-formed and well-used tracks. At times, when the redwoods part and the cocoon is broken, spectacular views across the Heretaunga Plains spill into eyeshot.

MĀKARA 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.

Castle Point, Wairarapa © Jet Productions

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.

4hr; 7km loop

WAIRARAPA

Average fitness required

A region with variety and charm, here you’ll find Martinborough’s small but globally admired vineyards, the cute but cool suburb of Greytown, and a Dark Sky that is nothing shy of a cosmic masterpiece. Visit native birds at the Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre, curious alpacas at The Alpaca Place and a full-scale adaptation of Stonehenge at Stonehenge Aotearoa which is also an open-sky observatory.

Some climbing No dogs

CITY TO SEA WALKWAY

Wellington Cable Car © WellingtonNZ

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

Even when you feel as though you're deep in the wilderness, you're never too far from the bright lights of Wellington. From the bustling promenade along the waterfront and colourful street performers in Cuba Mall, to the tempting wine lists in intimate bars and 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 or a trip up the city's iconic Cable Car.

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.

6-7hr; 12km Reasonable fitness required City walking, quite hilly

TRACK TRACK OVERVIEW 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 on 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 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.

No dogs WALKING MUST-DO'S 55

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN Abel Tasman © Lightstyle

Walking Must-Do’s of Marlborough & Nelson Tasman

DON’T MISS • Explore Ngārua Caves crammed with stalactites. Located in the Tākaka Hill range.

• Nelson Lakes National Park hosts the startling lakes – Rotoiti and Rotoroa.

• In Havelock, the mussel capital, kai moana travels straight from the ocean to your plate.

• Picton’s pretty marina is flush with boats bobbing on blue water.

• Pic’s Peanut Butter World has a home in Nelson and offers free factory tours to devoted peanut butter fans. While in Nelson, say hello to meerkats at Natureland.

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

• Blenheim is jam-packed with must-see sights such as Ōmaka Aviation Heritage Centre, Ōmaka Classic Cars and the Marlborough Museum.

• Foodies love the gourmet delights in these parts: wine, craft beer and fresh seafood.

• Nature astounds here, from the Sounds to the unbelievable colour and clarity of Te Waikoropupū Springs. • See Kahurangi National Park’s Marble Mountains where water has dissolved the stone to create a labyrinth of explorable caves.

• Farewell Spit is one of the largest natural sandbars in the world.

• Fish for your salmon dinner at Anatoki Salmon in Tākaka.

WAINUI FALLS TRACK TRACK OVERVIEW 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.

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 swing bridge for children to enjoy.

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.

ABEL TASMAN COAST TRACK 5 days/4 nights; 60km Medium fitness required Intermediate tramping track No dogs

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

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.

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.

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 10 Great Walks, this track has half or multi-day options which make it ideal for families.

Where is it? 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 compulsory tidal crossing.

Know before you go Check tide times for crossing Awaroa Inlet. There are four 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.

Bridge crossing, Abel Tasman © Lightstyle

WALKING MUST-DO’S 57

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN Tākaka Hill © Adobe Stock

ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK As one of New Zealand’s most lauded walking areas, Abel Tasman National Park fronts the ocean and days can be spent on both the water and the land. Refreshing swims in cobalt-coloured bays are readily enjoyed, and long tramps through coastal bush are just as moreish. Half-day and full day treks are popular options, as is joining a catamaran for coastal cruises, or skirting the shoreline by kayak to find Split Apple Rock. It’s not uncommon for nosy seals to pop their head above the water while you paddle. Listen out for wildlife such as tui and bellbirds, picnic on deserted golden sand or sit before a stunning sunset and allow the last rays of sunshine warm your face. Create unique memories by paddling a traditional waka along the seashore, or take a small detour to Cleopatra’s Pool where you can glide down nature-made slides into a crystalline lagoon. There are two ways to get into Abel Tasman National Park; walk in from Mārahau (20 minutes on foot and the main gateway) or, if you’re coming from the north, enter via Tākaka. Mārahau itself offers a lovely beach and plenty of places to stay. You can also book water taxis, hire kayaks and embark on the Abel Tasman Coast Track from here. Camping in Abel Tasman © Epic Trails

TĀKAKA HILL WALKWAY

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

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.

2-3hrs; 5.1km Average fitness required Intermediate tramping track No dogs

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.

A Middle Earth Experience

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

HEAPHY 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 Four-day hike. Climb to Flanaghans Corner, the

Don’t Miss

highest point at 915m before descending to Heaphy River. 1080 operation at times and some track sections will close. As one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, this track is very popular and all huts must be booked in advance especially from late October to late April. From 1 May to 30 November mountain bikers also use this track. See page 11 for full track overview.

TRACK OVERVIEW One end of the track is near Collingwood, Golden Bay. The first day starts at Brown Hut. 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).

COLLINGWOOD Just 25 minutes north of Golden Bay, Collingwood is perfectly situated for the Heaphy Track in Kahurangi National Park. You’ll also find tours to Farewell Spit here. Rent a mountain bike and explore Aorere Valley; kayak to Ruataniwha Inlet; horse trek along the beach and admire the town’s historic architecture.

GOLDEN BAY Drive over the Tākaka Hill and you’ll arrive in glorious Golden Bay. The only way in and out is by road. Camping by this

Farewell Spit © Farewell Spit Tours

startling stretch of sun-kissed sand is one of the definite must-do’s in this region.

FAREWELL SPIT These huge dunes form a landing strip for thousands of migratory shore birds from the northern hemisphere. The 35km-long sandspit is home to 90 bird species and is protected as a Wetland of International Importance. Access can be limited because tours departing Collingwood and Pūponga depend on the tide: it’s a good idea to plan ahead.

Friendly Camp IN THE HEART of Collingwood

Heaphy Track © Nelson Tasman Tourism

4 days/3 nights; 78.4km

Intermediate tramping track

Medium fitness required

No dogs

Collingwood Holiday Park

COLLINGWOOD HOLIDAY PARK Cabins and camping options Toilet/shower & laundry facilities • Internet access Equipped kitchens and TV room Tennis courts • Recycling • Pets 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

HEAPHY TRACK FLIGHTS Fly Directly into the start of the Heaphy at Brown Hut

0800 150 338

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 100fthigh dunes & see old fossils exposed on the beach.

adventureflightsgoldenbay.co.nz

Adventure Flights Golden Bay

RESERVATIONS:

0800 808 257 WALKING MUST-DO’S 59

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN 6

LAKE CHALICE HUT WALK TRACK OVERVIEW

QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK 5

Queen Charlotte Track © Bare Kiwi

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

Meretoto, Ship Cove and head to Mistletoe Bay in Anakiwa, although you can do it in either direction.

Where is it?

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

In Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru sounds. Most people start at

Terrain

Pedal power

No dogs 3-5 days one way; 71km Intermediate fitness required Some climbing

This trail is also one of Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails’ Great Rides. Please note that even though cycling on this track is permitted all year round, the section between Meretoto/ Ship Cove and Kenepuru Saddle is closed to cyclists during the busy summer season from 1 December to the end of February.

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 DOC’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.

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 kilometre-long 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 2hr 30min loop from hut; 6.5km Strong fitness required Sometimes steep and rocky

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.

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 all occupying sunny, open spaces.

LAKE ROTOITI CIRCUIT

7-10 hr loop track; 23-31km loop track Strong fitness required Advanced tramping track

Nelson Lakes National Park is a wonderfully generous place to spend time in any season. In spring it’s all about hikes, fishing and boating. Come summer, pull on the togs; the lakes can be swum in and jetties and moored rafts make jumping in even more fun. When the weather cools, can anything top a day spent mountain biking in the Teetotal Recreation Area? Winter is snow time; skiing, snow boarding, tobogganing and – this is special – ice-skating on Duck Pond. Bushline Hut, Nelson Lakes © Nelson Tasman Tourism

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. Twenty 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.

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.

No dogs

Lake Rotoiti, Nelson Lakes © Nelson Tasman Tourism

HIGHLIGHTS

TRACK OVERVIEW

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.

SPEARGRASS TRACK 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. Beware of wasps (at their worst December to April) and sandflies, both a nuisance here. Pack repellent and antihistamine if allergic.

2.5hr each way; 7.4km

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

Intermediate fitness required

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

Easy to intermediate tramping track

Terrain Well-graded tramping tracks, mostly flat except for a climb at either end

No dogs

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 double-glazed 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 61

WEST COAST Lake Matheson © Adobe Stock

Walking Must-Do’s of West Coast DON'T MISS White heron / kōtuku, Ōkārito Lagoon © Adobe Stock

• Ōkārito Lagoon is a beautiful body of water perfect for exploring by kayak. • Walk or cycle the Kawatiri Coastal Trail that connects Westport with Charleston. • Punakāiki Pancake Rocks in the Paparoa National Park are a definite must-see. • Tauranga Bay Seal Colony is located at Cape Foulwind. Watching the hilarious seal antics is highly addictive. • Lake Brunner is great for jet boating, paddling and fishing for brown trout, of which there is an abundant supply. • Greymouth is home to Shantytown Heritage Park, a full replica of an 1860 gold town with over 30 explorable buildings. • The Old Ghost Road, formerly a gold miners' road between Seddonville and Lyell, has been transformed into a 85km walking and cycling trail. • Walk or zipline across the 100m Buller Gorge Swingbridge. • In Hokitika, climb amidst rainforest giants at the West Coast Treetop Walkway. • Blackball has a quality museum and a cool historic hotel that are worth a visit. • Hokitika makes a great base for both the impossibly blue Hokitika Gorge and the twinkly Glow Worm Dell. • Admire what nature can create over 35 million years at Oparara Basin in Karamea. • Explore world-famous Fox and Franz Josef glaciers, as well as Lake Matheson for its perfect reflection of Aoraki Mt Cook. • In Haast, take a cruise on the Waiatoto River, fish at Jackson Bay and while here, walk the Smoothwater Bay Track. • Arthur's Pass is hugely impressive.

OPARARA ARCH WALK

Oparara Arch © West Coast Tourism NZ

CHARMING CREEK WALKWAY 2

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. The gorge nestles among steep bluffs while below, water foams past immense boulders in the riverbed.

RIGHT: Charming Creek © Adobe Stock

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.

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

Where is it? McCallums Mill Rd, 25km north of Karamea.

Terrain Well-formed easy tramping track.

Need to know 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.

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

TRACK OVERVIEW Please note: Mangatini Falls is currently inaccessible from the southern end access from SH 67 at Ngākawau, 35km northeast of Westport due to a large slip. The falls can be accessed from the northern end through Seddonville, 50km northeast of Westport on SH 67. 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-to-moderate fitness is required on this undulating track.

Where is it? There are normally two points of access to the walkway but due to an active and highly dangerous slip the southern end access that is clearly signposted from SH 67 at Ngākawau, 35km northeast of Westport, is currently closed. The northern end is open and 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. Contact Westport i-SITE Visitor Centre on 03 789 6658 to arrange transport to and from the track ends.

TRACK OVERVIEW

Great pub lunch menu available every day

2hr one way; 9.5km one way Low-moderate fitness required Undulating trail Access for dogs on lead only

• 3km from the start of the Old Ghost • Free WiFi available Road Trail • Trails users parking, secure bike storage and bike washing area • Excellent hotel and motel facilities • Restaurant offers the “meanest rare • Near Charming Creek and Chasm Creek walkways ribeye steak” on the Coast

Rated 5 out of 5

1 Queen St, Seddonville • Phone: +64 3 782 1828 • E-mail: info@seddonvillehotel.co.nz

www.seddonvillehotel.co.nz WALKING MUST-DO'S 63

WEST COAST 3

CAPE FOULWIND WALKWAY This spectacular coastal walkway features a seal colony, a lighthouse and panoramic views of mountains and coastline. 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? 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.

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.

1hr 15min; 3.4km one way (car park to seal colony 30min, 1km return) Low-moderate fitness required Flat/undulating track Access for dogs on a lead only

PAPAROA TRACK & PIKE29 MEMORIAL TRACK 4

No dogs Paparoa Track © Stewart Nimmo

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 the 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 with sheer drops and stunning views down 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.

There will soon be the option to walk the Pike29 Memorial Track on day two. Here, a memorial will tell the story of the 29 men that died in the Pike River Mine disaster.

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

This is the newest Great Walk. It crosses the Paparoa Range and takes you through alpine tops, limestone karst landscapes and thriving rainforest.

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

www.palmcourtwestport.co.nz

Blackball – Gateway to the Paparoa Great Walk

Reservations: 0800 472 567 306 Palmerston St, Westport

• Sunny location • Walk to shops • Motorcycle & cycle friendly • Free WiFi • Tariff: from $130.00 (2 persons), extra $15 Well-travelled tourists say “the best motel we’ve stayed at”

8 Hilton Street, Blackball P: +64 3 7324 888 • E: blackballinn@gmail.com

www.blackballinn.co.nz

• Cosy accommodation situated minutes from the entrance to the Great Walk • Welcoming West Coast hospitality • Open 7 days for breakfast, lunch and dinner – 10am til late • Fully licensed • Immersed in Blackball’s rich history • Motorhome parking and powered sites available • Free WiFi

11 Hilton Street, Blackball

Handmade – The old-fashioned way

The true character and flavour of herbs, Order online - the modern way: spices and meats is gently nurtured to www.blackballsalami.co.nz create our range of quality gourmet New Zealand meat products.

TRUMAN TRACK

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

No dogs

Where is it?

30min; 1.4km return

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

Basic fitness required

Terrain

Easy walking track

Well-formed and maintained paths.

TRACK OVERVIEW

11 Hilton Street, Blackball PHONE: 03-732 4111

www.paparoaaccommodation.co.nz

Visiting the West Coast? COME AND STAY IN OUR TINY HOUSES AT THE DOORSTEP TO THE PAPAROA TRACK.

Visit shantytown.co.nz and pre-book your place in history

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 Hector's 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.

Rutherglen Road, Paroa (10km south of Greymouth) Open 7 days 10:00am - 3:00pm Freephone 0800 742 689 WALKING MUST-DO'S 65

WEST COAST TRACK OVERVIEW

POINT ELIZABETH WALKWAY 6

For all those who like the idea of disappearing deep into Aotearoa wilderness, but don’t have the means, time or enough instant noodles to do it for days.

Where is it?

1hr 45min; 5.5km one way

Point Elizabeth Walkway is a 15-minute/12.5km drive north of Greymouth.

Basic fitness required

Terrain This is a level and well-maintained track suitable for adults as well as little ones with energy to burn.

Easy walking track

TRACK OVERVIEW At just over 5.5km and taking roughly 1 hour 45 minutes one way, you’re not in the wilderness for long but while you're walking, it feels remote and intrepid with few others on the track. Following an old water race built by 19th century gold miners and weaving in and out of subtropical rainforest, there is a thick forest canopy overhead and, due to its proximity to the coast, a roar of pounding surf as the soundtrack. While it is graded as easy (it’s relatively flat and suitable for families with children) you’re vulnerable to nature’s wild elements, so be prepared. Rugged coastline and the decidedly rocky Point Elizabeth lookout add to the excitement, affording glorious views of the West Coast, while the birdlife, extensive in number, put on quite a show.

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.

okitika seaside town is where the beach is famed for its huge driftwood deposits and the famous annual Hokitika Wild Foods Festival which serves anything from huhu grubs to 'mountain oysters' (also known as bull testicles!) On the doorstep there are treetop walks and the 40m-high Hokitika Tower. Visit Lake Kaniere and Lake Mahinapua, take on the seven-hour trek to the peak of Mt Tuhua, find a glowworm dell and relax at the three-tiered Dorothy Falls and swimming hole.

SHINING STAR BEACHFRONT ACCOMMODATION

• Direct beach access. • Opposite Glowworm Dell. • Small farmyard with animals. • Apartments, Chalets, Cabins, Powered and Non-Powered Sites • Free WiFi. • Tariff: $112-$175. 16 Richards Dr, Hokitika • Res: 0800 744 646 E: shining@xtra.co.nz • www.shiningstar.co.nz

Hokitika Gorge © West Coast Tourism

HOKITIKA GORGE WALK

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

Where is it? Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve, Whitcombe Valley Rd, 33km east of Hokitika.

Terrain Boardwalks, bush tracks, well maintained.

Be prepared Pack insect repellent for sandflies.

No dogs 30min return; 650m each way Basic fitness required Easy tramping track

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.

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

OFF

Expires: Sep 2022

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)

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER WALKWAY 8

1hr 30min return; 5.4km Low fitness required Easy tramping track No dogs

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. Starts from the car park at the end of the road.

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. Please note: this is a beautiful yet dangerous place that is sometimes closed due to hazardous conditions, so please check www.doc.govt.nz before you start to check if it's open.

www.aspencourtfranzjosef.co.nz

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 sideroad to Lake Matheson.

Car park to jetty 40min; 1km return Lake Circuit 1.5hr; 2.6km return Low fitness required Easy walking with some undulations

FRANZ JOSEF & FOX GLACIERS

Facilities include: • King-size beds • Kitchens • Free WiFi • Spa bath units • Radiator and underfloor heating • Guest laundry For further details visit

New motel complex within Franz Josef Village. Opened January 2014. Comprises executive studio, one and two-bedroom luxury units. Complex surrounded by native bush and only a 2-minute walk to bars, cafés etc. Tariff: from $175 (2 persons).

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.

No dogs

Guided tour on Franz Josef Glacier © Adobe Stock

Just six kilometres from the Franz Josef village lies one of the world's most accessible glaciers: Franz Josef. Not quite as steep, but equally mesmerising, Fox Glacier sits 28km to the south. Both glaciers present visitors with the opportunity to access them, with walking trails leading to astonishing views of the glacial face and guided heli-hiking tours also available. Award-winning Fox Glacier Guiding flies over this stunning terrain before depositing you right on a glacier.

Reservations Freephone:

Ph +64 3 752 0210 0800 752 222 E: franzjosef@aspencourt.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO'S 67

CANTERBURY

Walking Must-Do’s of Canterbury DON’T MISS • Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most charming cities. • On Banks Peninsula, walk or cycle the pretty 46km Little River Trail. • With its blue lake, soaring Alps and the picture-perfect Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapō is extremely photogenic. After admiring Lake Tekapō, flop into Tekapō Springs. • Kaikōura is the place to feast on justcaught seafood, notably crayfish. • MacKenzie Country is an International Dark Sky Reserve and in winter you might even catch the Aurora Australis. • Aoraki Mt Cook is 3724m-high and New Zealand’s highest peak. • The scenery is year-round sensational in Aoraki National Park. • Drive the highest pass across the Southern Alps: Arthur’s Pass. • Hanmer Springs has hot springs. • Admire dinky Hector’s dolphins in the waters around Akaroa. • The two-hour return White Horse Walkway in Waimate is spectacular. • Get along to the Geraldine Farmers’ Market held each Saturday in summer. • Visit the Te Ana Māori Rock Art Museum in Timaru. • Taste top wine in the Waipara Valley. • In summer, take a cooling dip at Pines, Waikuku and Woodend beaches. • In Twizel see how salmon is farmed at the High Country Salmon Farm. • Visit Ashburton Aviation Museum. • Walk the Kura Tāwhiti Access Track to see majestic limestone rock formations.

Church of the Good Shepherd, Tekapō © Adobe Stock

KAIKŌURA PENINSULA WALKWAY 1

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

LEFT: Seal, Kaikōura Peninsula © Adobe Stock

In Canterbury, rural meets high country meets big mountains meets even bigger KAIKŌURA MUST-DO’S • Swim with dusky dolphins Frolicking in Kaikōura waters in pods of up to several hundred, it’s not hard to get acquainted with dolphins in these parts. Join a tour to observe them from the boat, or jump in and snorkel side-by-side. • Visit Fyffe House An easy 45-minute walk from the centre, this is the town’s oldest surviving building, creaking with tales from the 1800s. • Find enormous whales Giant sperm whales are a captivating sight whether you spy them from a boat, helicopter or plane. Sperm whales make year-round appearances, while orca, humpback and

blue whales are seasonal. • Climb Mt Fyffe An eight-hour return trek up this relatively unknown mountain trail presents unparalleled views across the Kaikōura Ranges. • Photograph an albatross Kaikōura is one of the best places on Earth to see multiple species of giant albatross. Join a tour to get your head around their colossal threemetre wingspan. • Meet fur seals Snorkel beside them in the shallow waters of Kaikōura Peninsula and walk to Point Kean Seal Colony to observe them napping on the rocks.

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?

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 2011-2020

208 Esplanade | Kaikoura | New Zealand Email: info@anchorinn.co.nz

Reservations Freephone: 0800 72 00 33 Book Online: www.anchorinn.co.nz

2021

WALKING MUST-DO’S 69

CANTERBURY

Hanmer Springs & Hurunui

New Zealanders have long had a love affair with walking. Hanmer Springs and the Hurunui offers plenty of spectacular places to stretch your legs.

KAIKOURA

Mt Lyford 70

Lewis Pass

HANMER SPRINGS

2 3 4

Waiau

Conway Flat 1

Rotherham Cheviot

Culverden Domett

Hurunui

Hawarden

Gore Bay

7 Greta Valley

Waikari

8 9

WAIPARA

Motunau Beach

Amberley

Leithfield

Amberley Beach

11 1

Leithfield Beach KEY Alpine Pacific Touring Route Coastal Pacific Railway Gore Bay Tourist Drive Walking Track Time Difficulty

CHRISTCHURCH

With magnificent mountains, rugged coastlines and beaches, lush green forests and rolling hills, the immense variety makes it easy to explore this sensational part of New Zealand.

Mt Isobel

(Hanmer Springs)

Mt Isobel (1319 m) forms the backdrop of Hanmer Springs. A return trip to the summit is a half-day walk and provides panoramic views of Hanmer Basin, Hanmer Range and beyond. Moderate

Art in the Forest

Conical Hill

Come and meet the dog at the entrance to the Hanmer Heritage Forest, and continue along the Forest Amble to find his friends and some special creatures.

Hanmer Springs’ most popular walk, 550m to reach the summit taking a zig zag trail. Views across the Hanmer Basin. Spectacular either early morning or late afternoon.

(Hanmer Springs)

Easy

30 minutes

(Hanmer Springs)

Easy

St James Walkway

Wind your way through stands of tall trees in one of New Zealand’s oldest exotic forests. Variety of directions.

66km. It starts and finishes at Lewis Pass and Boyle Village on SH7 (30km apart). An easy walk but the climate can be extreme and shouldn’t be attempted during winter months unless experienced.

0.5 - 1 hour return

(Lewis Pass)

Moderate

Manuka Bay Track

A gentle climb to the top, taking approximately 30 minutes. Enjoy panoramic views over a wide area of the surrounding hills and the braided Hurunui River.

This track hugs the coastline and provides sea views, lush forest and a number of landscape features. 3km one way.

30 minutes

(Port Robinson Walkway)

Moderate

Tiromoana Walkway

Most of the walkway is on a formed tracked. Reasonable fitness levels are required and sturdy footwear is required.

Approx 4km to the coast with a height difference of 280m. A carpark is located adjacent to the Mt Cass Road, with three lookouts along the route providing spectacular views.

2 hours return

(Waipara)

Hard

3 hours return

Mt Grey Track

Kowai Walking Track

Track climbs steadily through native bush and areas of pine, opening to tussock and the summit of Mt Grey (934m).

Attractive walk from Leithfield alongside the Kowai River to the coastal lagoon and beach spit. Plenty of bird life.

(Amberley)

Moderate

1.75 hour return

Mt Cass Walkway (Waipara)

Moderate

4 - 5 days

Balmoral Fire Lookout (Culverden)

Easy

45 minutes

Hanmer Springs Forest (Hanmer Springs)

Easy

4 - 5 hours return

2 - 3 hours return

(Leithfield)

Easy

1.5 - 2 hours return

HC HST2533

WALKING MUST-DO’S 71

CANTERBURY

HANMER SPRINGS This picturesque alpine village is a haven for recreation and paradise for walkers. The town’s surrounding mountains provide idyllic walking trails in summer, and powder-rich ski slopes during winter. Take 45 minutes out of your day to charge up Conical Hill – the views are postcard perfect – and discover the delightful sculptures in Hanmer Heritage Forest.

VISIT WAIMAKARIRI

MT ISOBEL TRACK TRACK OVERVIEW

Hanmer Springs is a charming resort town and, while you could enjoy the waters all day, there are adventures to be had. Mt Isobel is the perfect location 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 hebe 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.

6hr return; 7km

Steep climb; hard tramping track

Good fitness required

Access for dogs on lead only

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

hile in the Waimakariri region, take advantage of the many and varied walking tracks there. There is a network of family-friendly trails that connect contemporary towns with pretty braided rivers, wide-open sandy beaches and rural landscapes. Here are a few to check out. Oxford Forest Conservation Area: Trails range from a few hours to overnight through mature forest. Treat yourself with a dip in the Ryde Falls. Mt Thomas Tracks: Forty minutes from Glentui, there are various tracks with far-reaching views of the Canterbury Plains and Banks Peninsula. Kaiapoi Island: Part of the Waimakariri River Regional Park, find several walking tracks here, as well as fishing and swimming spots. Matawai Park: This Rangiora park is perfect for a walk with a picnic. Glentui Loop Track: Crosses Glentui River and takes about one hour. Ashley Rakahuri Regional Park: Skimming the river’s edge and weaving through forests, trails can get you from Rangiora to Waikuku. Lake Pegasus and Te Kōhanga Wetlands: A pretty area with namesake lake and expansive wetland, with plenty of birdlife and native flora.

The Chalets Motel Listen to the birds – not the neighbours

• Completely separate self-contained chalets set amongst spacious green grounds with stunning mountain views • 1 & 2-bedroom units with full kitchen

Bush path, alpine trails some scree.

• FREE WiFi, 50+ SKY channels & DVDs

Good to know

• Spacious play area, BBQ, laundry

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.

• Your own parking for car, trailer & bikes • Easy stroll to thermal pools and town centre • Rates from $140

56 Jacks Pass Road, Hanmer Springs Phone: + 64 3 315 7097 Email: reservations@chaletsmotel.co.nz

www.chaletsmotel.co.nz

When only the best will do • 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 • Complimentary Welcome Basket • Tariff: From $190 (2 persons) • Designated smoking area 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

www.alpinespringsmotel.co.nz

For extensive information and special options visit our website

www.spalodgehanmer.co.nz Spa Lodge Motel • 15 Harrogate Street, Hanmer Springs P: +64 3 315 7129 • Reservations 0800 44 66 44 E: enquiries@spalodgehanmer.co.nz

• Spacious self-contained studios and 1 & 2-bedroom units in a peaceful garden setting • 250 metres from the thermal pools, shops and restaurants • Undercover parking • Sky TV 50+ Channels incl Sky Sport • Guest laundry • Free WiFi • Complimentary towels for the thermal pools • Tariff: (2 persons) $120-$175

WHY YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME FIND OUT MORE AT: visitwaimakariri.co.nz

ENQUIRE WITH: Kaiapoi i-SITE info@kaiapoivisitorcentre.co.nz

10 kms of pure New Zealand beaches, 2 conservation areas in the foothills, 2 regional parks, 1 coastal park, wetlands, and lakes all with cycling and walking opportunities. 2 braided rivers perfect for fishing, boating or just having fun. 5 golf courses, 3 farmers markets, 4 art galleries. 2 urban centres, 6 smaller towns, villages, and beach settlements. 70 cafes and dining options. 30 boutique shops.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 73

CANTERBURY

DEVILS PUNCHBOWL WALKING TRACK

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 photographs using your flash. A head-torch with an infrared light is recommended for evening walks.

Where is it? 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).

Terrain 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.

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.

No dogs

Arthur’s Pass Alpine Motel Main Rd (SH 73), Arthur’s Pass Village www.apam.co.nz FREEPHONE: 0800 900 401

• 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 player in all rooms. • Tariff: $95-$155 for 1-2 guests, extra adults $25, extra children $15. Multi-night discounts.

BOOK DIRECT FOR BEST PRICE: info@apam.co.nz

AWAROA/GODLEY HEAD LOOP TRACK 4

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 Lyttelton Harbour. Carry on until you reach Boulder Bay, keep on past the Godley Battery Compound 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 Christchurch 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.

For walkers who want a beach, coastal views and Second World War relics, this is an excellent stroll for all ages.

Where is it? Start at Godley Head car park in Sumner about 20 minutes drive from Christchurch CBD.

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.

3hr return; 9.3km loop Low fitness required Easy walking track Access for dogs on a leash and not on the beach in summertime Your Alpine Adventure Starts Here • In the heart of the Southern Alps, only 90min from Christchurch and the West Coast • 12min from Arthur’s Pass in the Waimakariri Valley with the best views of the valley, rivers and mountains • Close to all the walking tracks • Restaurant and Bar — open daily • Modern, comfortable accommodation and amenities • Book direct on our website

12858 West Coast Road (SH73)

thebealeyhotel.com

ROUND THE MOUNTAIN VIA CURRY TRACK 5

Native bush and spectacular views over Akaroa are the highlights of this day tramp.

TRACK OVERVIEW

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 ups and downs. Includes some road walking.

More walks

Akaroa and Banks Peninsula have 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; 10.9km Reasonable fitness required Intermediate walking track No dogs

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.

PEEL FOREST PARK SCENIC RESERVE WALKS

CAROLINE BAY, TIMARU BOTANIC GARDENS & CENTENNIAL PARK WALKS 7

Three walks, one with views, one with gardens and one that offers some wilderness close to town.

Where is it?

From easy walking on boardwalks and flat, well-formed 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 mid-19th 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. There’s also at least 10 species of native birds can be found here including the native wood pigeon/kererū. Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve is a large, DOC administered native

bush reserve with a variety of trails from 30min to 3hr. The camping ground here is an ideal base from which to explore the park’s many trails.

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.

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

Dogs are allowed on the beach in winter only

Paved paths and steps for the urban walks; unpaved but well-constructed paths in Centennial Park.

TRACK OVERVIEW

From 30min to 1.5hr

This 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 half-hour 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. 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.

97 Talbot St, Geraldine • Phone: +64 3 693 8501 • Res: 0800 400 404

A few minutes to a few hours

SPACIOUS UNITS

Medium fitness required Easy walking to challenging trails No dogs

www.geraldinemotels.co.nz • Quality, spacious family and studio units, fully self-contained and sleep 2-6 persons • Off-street & covered parking, large garden, BBQ and playground

• FREE WiFi • Pets welcome by arrangement • Short walk to town, river walk • Tariff: (Oct 21-Sep22) $110 to $150 (2 persons), extra $20

WALKING MUST-DO’S 75

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

DON'T MISS • Take the boat across Lake Te Anau to the waterfall and glowworm grotto. • Visit Fiordland National Park's with over one million hectares of mountains, lakes and fiords. • Chug across Queenstown's Lake Wakatipu aboard the 109-year-old TSS Earnslaw steamship. • Soar up steep mountainside to Bob’s Peak on the Queenstown gondola and then zoom halfway down on the renowned luge. • Try Gibbston Valley's world-famous wine and

lock lips with Central Otago’s tastiest export, pinot noir. • Cardrona Distillery is the world's most southern whisky distillery and Cardrona Hotel opened in 1863. Admire the vintage Chrysler parked outside and head to the beer garden. • Visit one of the four islands sprinkled across Wanaka’s glass-like lake. • In Arrowtown, heritage buildings flank wide, leafy streets and there's a 1880s village once occupied by Chinese gold miners.

• Ōamaru boasts tiny blue penguins, steampunk culture and an historic Victorian precinct. • The sphere-shaped Moeraki Boulders are utterly captivating. • Visit Bill Richardson Transport World in Invercargill. • Taste a world-famous Bluff oyster. • The Catlins’ roving roads are a driver’s dream and Stewart Island offers a wild, rugged excuse to get off the grid.

ROYS PEAK TRACK

Where is it? A 10-minute drive from Wanaka.

Terrain Steep walking track with a continuous climb. Exposed to the elements throughout.

Good to know The track is on private property and closed from 1 October to 10 November for lambing.

WANT MORE?

The 10km Rob Roy Glacier Track in Mt Aspiring National Park will take you into a dramatic alpine landscape that includes

TRACK OVERVIEW The Insta-influencers have made this already popular track even more sought after, most notably for the photographic viewpoint approximately one hour before the summit. It is here you will find a narrow, exposed path leading to a vantage point with views as far as the eye can see. Feast your eyes on Lake Wanaka, its islands and surrounding valleys. Further up you will reach Roys Peak itself, where Mt Aspiring sits grandly in the background. There is nothing technical about this hike, but the incline zigzags relentlessly to the top so expect a steady slog uphill, with very few shaded areas. You’ll descend via the same track or, if you choose to hike up in the afternoon, camp overnight and catch sunrise the following day.

a glimpse of the glacier,

No dogs

snowfields, sheer rock cliffs and waterfalls. 3-4hr.

5-6hr return; 16km High fitness required Strenuous, uphill gradient

QUEENSTOWN IS FOR EVERYONE Whatever your disposition, Queenstown has something to satisfy. Breathe in Queenstown’s fresh alpine air and explore a year-round playground created entirely by nature. Discover enjoyment that stretches as far as the ski field and as close as your dinner plate. Slow down or seek adventure, relaxation is both low-key and high adrenalin. Yes, thrills come in all shapes and sizes here.

THAT WANAKA TREE Find the famous Wanaka tree, known as the ‘Lone Tree of Lake Wanaka’. The crooked trunk of one of New Zealand’s most photographed tree is possibly more famous than the lake itself. Somewhat a reluctant celebrity, this willow doesn’t reveal its whereabouts too easily. From town, face the lake and meander left along the water’s edge; you will eventually reach the leafy icon. Following a flurry of excitement on social media, hordes now flock here with cameras, selfie sticks and drones in tow.

Aquatic adventures range from sedate kayaking down Dart River, to sliding off waterfalls with a canyoning group. River board the rapids of Kawarau River, jet boat, cruise, or commandeer a three-wheeled aqua bike on Lake Wakatipu. Everyone loves to scale the mountainside in Queenstown’s gondola, and at the top, the luge provides hours of fun. Rug up and bunker down in an ice bar, try your hand at frisbee golf in Queenstown Gardens or bounce along (up and under) Lake Wakatipu in a sharkdesigned submersible boat called Hydro Attack. Enjoy exclusive use of an outdoor hot tub or treat yourself to a romantic dinner. Chow down on a famous Ferg Burger or follow in the footsteps of your favourite Lord of the Rings' character. In Queenstown, if you can think of it, you can likely do it.

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QUEENSTOWN HILL TIME WALK 2

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.

You can bike the track, although you have to be a confident rider as there are steep elements. Riders and walkers need to share with care.

Your perfect getaway in the HEART of QUEENSTOWN

2hr return, add 30min to summit; 2.5km to summit

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Moderate fitness required

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For dramatic river and mountain scenery, Arrowtown is hard to beat. Head off in any direction and you’ll find a spectacular track with breathtaking vistas Trails are suitable year-round and are for all fitness levels from easy 15-minute strolls along the river to more rigorous walks and everything in between.

arrowtown.com 78

No dogs. Sheep grazing, and part of the walk is on private land.

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.

WANT MORE?

The Sawpit Gully Trail is an enjoyable two to three-hour loop track

that departs from the car park near the Chinese

Gentle gradient

Settlement in Arrowtown and climbs to Sawpit Gully.

BANNOCKBURN SLUICINGS

Cromwell is regarded as the ‘fruit bowl of the south’, summer brings peaches, nectarines, apricots and cherries, while vineyards pour a multitude of pleasant drops.

MORE QUEENSTOWN WALKS

TIKI TRAIL Starting at the bottom of the gondola, you can access Bob’s Peak (home to Skyline Queenstown) by the power of your own two feet and via a one-hour ascent through forest. BEN LOMOND TRACK A demanding full-day hike with a 1438m elevation. It'll take at least six to eight hours to get to the summit and back, but the views are arguably Queenstown’s best. SKYLINE LOOP TRACK Take the gondola up to Skyline Queenstown. Walk past the luge to the reservoir, turn right at the signpost and through the trees before descending back to the Skyline. 30min return.

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.

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.

Dogs on a leash only

1.5hr; 3.5km loop track Moderate fitness required Cliff faces and steps

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 gold rush. It was created by a technique known as ‘hydraulic sluicing’ where water was blasted at the hills to release the gold.

Discover unforgettable views of Queenstown, celebrate mouth-watering cuisine, enjoy the thrill of the downhill Luge, and more.

skyline.co.nz

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 gold miners.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 79

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND 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. 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.

ROUTEBURN TRACK Need to know

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?

It is possible to start this track from the Routeburn Shelter near Glenorchy, or from the Divide Shelter near Te Anau – both options provide spectacular views. Date:

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WANT MORE?

No dogs

Avoid the Routeburn Track from May to September, when there is a higher risk of avalanches.

2-4 days; 33km

During the Great Walks season (end of October to the start of May), you'll need to book your space in one of the huts.

Moderate fitness required

Terrain

Bush trails, mountain paths, boardwalks, some steep sections.

Intermediate tramping track

The Hollyford Track provides another popular Fiordland walk. This 56km track takes four to eight days, depending on whether you walk one way and fly out, or walk both ways. Make use of an expert guide and private lodges or go it alone and stay in DOC huts.

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• Relax in a homely, Kiwiana -style motel • Pet -friendly upon request • Full cooking facilities • Quiet location, studio, 1, 2 & 3‑brm units • Tour bookings arranged, local knowledge is best • 10min stroll to town centre, 100m to lakefront • Environmentally friendly • FREE WiFi • Playground & BBQ area

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

Check www.adenmotel.co.nz for current best rates & to book

Discover New Zealand as seen in travel magazines by joining us on a guided walk in our natural environment. Our passionate guides will help you to connect with our unique flora and fauna. 0800 688 222 +64 3 442 6699 37 Shotover Street

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DISCOVER GLENORCHY A fantastic place to stay and sedate when compared to Queenstown which is all hustle and bustle. Get here by driving the spectacular 46km drive that is renowned for its jaw dropping beauty. While in town, say hello to some big personalities at Glenorchy Animal Experience and walk the Glenorchy Walkway through an enchanting wetland.

Lakefront Lodge

Te Anau

• 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: $165-$305, 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

MILFORD TRACK

You will want to relive the moment you first set eyes on Milford Sound over and over again. For as much as you’re told it’s a thing of staggering beauty, nothing can prepare you for the real deal. You can also enjoy some of the best coral diving in the world here as well.

One of the world’s best-loved multiday walks and one of this country's Great Walks, it features lakes, mountains and views to remember forever.

Where is it? Start at Glade Wharf at the head of Lake Te Anau, 27km from the township. Finish at Sandfly Point, Milford Sounds.

KEPLER TRACK

One of the Great Walks, this charming adventure features stunning lakes, rivers and bridges, alpine scenery and an everchanging landscape that includes tussock and towering forests. Sandfly Point is also by boat through the majestic Milford Sound. For those who don't want to do the whole track, there is the option to independently day walk the track. Fiordland Co offers a drop-off and pick-up boat service to Sandfly Point.

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

No dogs Most do it in 4 days; 53.5km Intermediate fitness required

Where is it? Start at the Kepler Track car park, 5km from Te Anau township. Many people choose to start in Te Anau.

Terrain Gravel, rock, dirt, largely wellformed forest tracks and alpine trails.

Good to know Make bookings in advance for huts and campsites through the Department of Conservation. Continued on p.82 >

Moments of Healing.

Very steep in parts

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. The huts on the Milford Track must be booked ahead of the Great Walks season from the end of October to the start of May. Mintaro Hut is new and one of the prettiest DOC huts in the country. 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’.

STAY AT TASMAN HOLIDAY PARKS - TE ANAU

After tackling the hikes, rejuvenate at Tasman Holiday Parks - Te Anau. Book a private hot tub overlooking Lake Te Anau or unwind in the barrel sauna. TASMANHOLIDAYPARKS.COM /WALK

WALKING MUST-DO’S 81

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND TRACK OVERVIEW

> Continued from p.81

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.

No dogs 3-4 days; 60km loop Intermediate fitness required Some climbing

Te Anau is base camp of Fiordland National Park and provides the best access to exploring the Milford and Doubtful Sounds. The spectacular scenic drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is a must-do as well as the Te Anau Glowworm Caves and jet boating on the Waiau River. Te Anau is also well-known as the walking capital of the world, with three Great Walks nearby and many top short walks such as the Lake Marian track. It's also home of the takahē.

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.

Terrain Hills, grass tracks, beach with rocks and some urban elements.

30min; 2km Average fitness required Some hills and grass tracks

Admire the world's smallest penguins at Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony. Every night, they waddle up the beach, returning from a full day at sea.

MILFORD TRACK KEPLER TRACK

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 Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony. The track connects with the Skyline Walk which provides excellent views of Ōamaru, too.

Lazy tunes & sunny mountain views

Photo Credit: Graham Dainty

TRACK OVERVIEW

The Sandfly Café has all-day sun and indoor, outdoor seating. Full breakfast menu, light lunch options, superb coffee. A great place to relax, plan or reflect on your Fiordland adventures. Open 7 days. A local’s choice! No.9 The lane, Te Anau Ph/Fax +64 3 249 9529 • E: sandflycafe@gmail.com

www.fiordland.org.nz

SOUTH HILL WALKWAY 7

ROUTEBURN TRACK

MOERAKI BOULDERS BEACH WALK & MILLENNIUM WALKWAY 8

3hr return; extra 1.7km along Koekohe Beach to boulders Average fitness required Some steps No dogs

The Millennium Walkway is a lovely coastal walk, well-signposted and dotted with information boards.

Where is it? Start at Moeraki Point, between Moeraki and Hampden on the coast of Otago.

Terrain Tracks, boardwalks, steps, stiles, beach.

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.

ŌAMARU A sea-facing town chock-a-block with Victorian architecture, Ōamaru is a wonderful time warp. The Victorian Precinct is where you'll find the largest collection of 1800s buildings, notably along Harbour St, but there are plenty scattered around downtown, too. Several quirky art galleries exist behind unassuming doors; don’t hesitate to pull one ajar and peek inside. Kookiness is everywhere, from Steampunk HQ, dedicated to a Victorian era-style science fiction genre, to the eccentric elements of various cafés, in Ōamaru, they know how to surprise and delight their visitors.

• 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 83

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

HARBOURSIDE PATH 9

Designed for walkers and cyclists, this 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.

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.

LARNACH CASTLE New Zealand’s only castle, overlooking Otago Peninsula, was built in 1871. Today it's very well presented, with a wealth of antique furnishings and art. Visitors can snoop around, explore the tower and ballroom, and wander the grounds which include a Garden of International Significance. There’s overnight accommodation, too. Every June, Larnach Castle hosts a ghostly event when visitors can explore the castle by torch light and be spooked.

Approx 1hr 15min each way; 6km Low fitness required – great for families Flat, sealed and well-maintained Dogs allowed

Dandy Dunedin Compact and handsome, Dunedin is dressed in Edwardian and Victorian architecture, entwined with intriguing alleyways, boutique stores, cafés and gardens. It's also very walkable, with sheltered shopping streets, a green belt and public gardens.

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.

NUGGET POINT/ TOKATA WALKS 10

WANT MORE? Walk the Blair Athol Walkway. Nudging the Clutha River, this 90-minute return track is suitable for walkers and cyclists. Take in an array of flora and fauna including an amazing display of rhododendrons.

CATHEDRAL CAVES WALK

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.

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.

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.

30min each way; 2km return Easy fitness required Easy walk WALKING MUST-DO’S 85

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND 12

RAKIURA TRACK

INVERCARGILL No city sits further south than Invercargill. Blessed with wide streets it’s famed for its farming and its history including the story of local man, Burt Munro, a record-breaking Kiwi motorcyclist. Motoring museums include the much-loved Transport World with its gleaming classic car collection. You'll also find some of the world's best fare produced within the region, Invercargill serves up an eclectic mix of succulent seafood including world-famous Bluff oysters, Stewart Island salmon, mussels, paua and blue cod to name a few.

The walking country we all dream of...

Mavora - Greenstone Walkway

Welcome Rock Trail

Te Anau

Piano Flat Loop Track

Lumsden Big Totara Walk

Whisky Creek Track

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Tuatapere

Gore

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The Catlins Foveaux Walkway

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WALK FOR A FEW MINUTES, WALK FOR A FEW HOURS, OR WALK FOR A FEW DAYS... 86

Stewart Is. southlandnz.com/greatwalking

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. 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. Immerse yourself in the history, from early Māori settlement sites around Māori Beach and Port William/Potirepo, to sawmilling

RESERVATIONS: 0800 888 234 • Refurbished, modern studios • 1 & 2-bedroom units and wheelchair-accessible studios • Spa units • Off-street parking • Sky 50+ channels • Airport 4-minute drive • Tariff from $140 (corporate & group rates available) 189 Tay St (SH 1), Invercargill • P: +64 3 218 8881 • E: birch@birchwood.co.nz

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Queens Park Motels

• 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: $130-$160 (1-2 persons), extra $20, under 12yrs $15, under 5yrs free, seasonal/corporate rates.

To Bluff

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DEE ST

SH 6

To Queenstown

85 Alice St, Invercargill • Ph: +64 3 214 4504 M: +64 27 786 8627 Email: quietstay@queensparkmotels.co.nz www.queensparkmotels.co.nz

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To Dunedin

Reservations: 0800 800 504

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relics dispersed along the track. If you get the chance, visit iconic Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara, off Stewart Island/Rakiura, a beautiful island sanctuary open to the public.

Where is it? Oban, Stewart Island/Rakiura. Take a 20min flight from Invercargill or a 1hr ferry trip across Foveaux Strait from the southern port of Bluff.

Good to know During the Great Walks season you will need to book your space in advance, so planning ahead is essential.

No dogs

3 days/2 nights; 32km Medium fitness required Intermediate tramping track

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.

ULVA ISLAND As one of New Zealand’s best predator-free sanctuaries, the flora and fauna here is sensational. Arrive by boat from Halfmoon Bay or Golden Bay and pick up a selfguided walking and bird species book from the shelter.

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

WALKING MUST-DO’S 87

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

STEWART ISLAND Sitting 30km off the South Island, Stewart Island is New Zealand's third-largest motu. Known as Rakiura Island in Māori (glowing skies), in winter the Southern Lights illuminate the sky. On land, the terrain is dense with both forest and wildlife, notably because predators are scarce. Enjoy the simple pleasures that come with the slower pace of life on Stewart Island. As New Zealand's southern-most island, it’s also the most remote, so if you’re looking for off-the-beaten track experiences, look no further.

BLUFF Bluff is well known for its oysters and the famed Bluff Oyster Festival takes place every May, but there’s more than just shucking to be done here. Explore the historic port, jump on a boat to Stewart Island, find the AA signpost at Stirling Point and sigh at the views from atop Bluff Hill.

Accessed via a one-hour ferry journey with Stewart Island Ferry Services from Bluff, or a 20-minute flight from Invercargill, it’s easy to get away from it all. Almost 90 percent of the island is National Park and it’s in this largely untamed wilderness that you can have a real adventure. Aside from the Rakiura Track, Stewart Island is famed for its clear, pollution-free sky and Dark Sky Sanctuary status. From March through to September, there's a high probability of seeing Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights.

Away from the bush, pristine beaches and pretty bays are just as numerous. Sheltered Bathing Beach is just a short walk from the main settlement of Oban, and on the way there (or back) it is an absolute must to stop for fish and chips from Kai Kart. Explore the completely predatorfree environment of Ulva Island and admire the vast number of bird species. Kiwi spotting and bird spotting on Stewart Island is a unique experience unlike anywhere

else in the world. On Stewart Island humans are outnumbered 50 to 1 by kiwi. There's also electric bike hire, fishing charters and full-day carving workshops at Rakiura Jade. Whatever you choose, embrace 'island time' and enjoy the peace and quiet. BELOW: Tui © Janice McKenna LEFT: Bluff oysters © Great South ABOVE: Stewart Island © Matt Crawford

Through the regenerating bush and subalpine scrub, look and listen out for kea, falcon, tūī, bellbird, grey warbler and shining and long-tailed cuckoo.

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Auckland Must Do’s

Where else are you planning to go? For inspiration, see We Love You New Zealand online. A suite of Must-Do’s covering New Zealand’s regions, North Island and South Island road trip itineraries, Must-Do’s Walking and MustDo’s Cycling can be found online or pick up a hard copy from an AA Centre.

Must-Do's Walking 2021-22

Articles inside

12 TOP WALKS IN THE LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

7 TOP CANTERBURY WALKS

9 TOP WEST COAST WALKS

8 TOP WALKS IN MARLBOROUGH & NELSON

7 TOP LOWER NORTH ISLAND WALKS

9 TOP WALKS IN CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

9 TOP WALKS IN THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & TAIRĀWHITI GISBORNE

9 TOP AUCKLAND WALKS

10 TOP NORTHLAND WALKS

New Zealand's 10 Great Walks

Walking in New Zealand