Hiking (hīkoi)

Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway is a picturesque coastal hike located near Mangawhai Heads, stretching approximately 5 kilometers each way. This popular track combines spectacular coastal scenery, including dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and striking rock formations. Ideal for both casual walkers and more experienced hikers, the walkway rewards visitors with impressive ocean vistas and frequent sightings of native seabirds. The route loops through farmland and native bush, offering a diverse hiking experience perfect for capturing memorable photographs.

Te Whara Track is a challenging yet rewarding hike spanning approximately 7.5 kilometers along the stunning Whangārei Heads coastline. This route climbs through dense native forest, ascending steep terrain toward panoramic viewpoints that overlook the surrounding beaches and islands. The summit provides impressive 360-degree vistas stretching from Ocean Beach to the harbor entrance, making it a perfect choice for hikers seeking spectacular landscapes combined with a sense of accomplishment.

Home to New Zealand’s ancient kauri giants, Waipoua Forest features accessible trails suitable for hikers of all levels. The star attraction is the Tāne Mahuta Walk—a short, gentle stroll leading to Tāne Mahuta, the country's largest living kauri tree, estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Additional trails, such as the Te Matua Ngāhere Walk, guide visitors deeper into the serene forest, immersing them in lush greenery, birdlife, and the spiritual atmosphere of these majestic, ancient woodlands.