Mt Manaia © Fraser Clements
WAIPŪ CAVES TRACK 7
Delve into deep, dark caves tangled with stalagmites, stalactites and glowworms, then re-emerge for a hike through karst limestone formations.
Where is it? 40 minutes south of Whangarei, or 25 minutes north of Waipū Beach off SH1 on Waipū Caves Rd.
Terrain The caves are wet, slippery and a torch and suitable footwear are a must. The track itself is not always well formed and can be muddy.
No dogs, unless you have a DOC permit
6
Approximately 1.5hr return; 2km one way (walk only, not including cave exploration)
MT MANAIA TRACK
The bush-clad mountain dominates the landscape and is irresistible to hikers who appreciate a dramatic view.
Where is it? The track starts just above the car park next to the Mt Manaia Club on Whangārei Heads Rd above McLeod Bay, 28km east of Whangārei.
Terrain Moderate fitness is needed, because of the steady climbing – but it’s a good track and worth the effort. The lookouts have no safety barriers, so stay well away from the drop-offs and supervise children. On your return, consider heading straight to McLeod Bay for a swim.
No dogs 2hr return; 4km return, via same track Moderate fitness required
Basic fitness, suitable for all ages Steep in parts
TRACK OVERVIEW The Waipū Caves Track is a walk of two halves. It begins at the mouth of the Waipū Caves which are mere steps from the car park and will beckon curious types inside. Entry to this three-cave system is free but completely at your own risk. There are no guided tracks and wading through mud and water is expected. Inside there are stalactites, stalagmites, a surreal network of limestone shapes and best of all, a metropolis of glowworms. Follow the underground stream (unsuitable in winter as there will be too much water), creep between low rocks, narrow walls and venture as far as you can. It is possible to emerge 175m downstream, but most visitors scramble out the way they came. From here you can embark on the actual Waipū Cave Track which climbs steeply out of the valley across open farmland. There are no further caves to explore but follow the orange flags and 45 minutes later you’ll reach the ridgeline. Panoramic views stretch across the Whangārei Harbour to Bream Head and as far out as the Hen and Chicken Islands.
BELOW: Waipū Caves © Getty Images
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.
WALKING MUST-DO'S 19
