Te Henga Walkway

Walking track

Getting there

From Bethells Beach (Te Henga), the track is sign-posted near a bridge 1 km before the end of Bethells Rd opposite Lake Wainamu carpark.  The northern entrance is from Constable Rd, off Oaia Rd, 10 km down the Muriwai Beach turnoff from Waimauku, SH 16.

Description

Time and distance:

• Bethells Rd to Constable Rd 8 km or 3 - 4 hr one way
• Bethells Rd to O’Neill’s Bay 2 km or 45 min one way

Track follows coastal cliffs and is rutted and steep in sections, it becomes slippery after periods of rain, take care around old slip sites.

From Bethells Rd the Te Henga Walkway crosses the Waitakere River by footbridge, rising along a graded section, to superb views of lagoons, dunes and the west coast surf down to O’Neill Bay, where you can return along Bethells Beach. 

To continue along Te Henga Walkway, the track climbs steeply then follows along the cliff-top where you may see gannets diving for fish. The track exits, through a farm valley and another steep climb, to Constable Rd. Care is needed on this track, which traverses coastal cliffs and is uneven and muddy in places (an upgrade is planned).

Plan and prepare

• Dogs are not permitted on the tracks because of the threat they pose to stock and wildlife. Exceptions include certified guide dogs and permitted hunting dogs.
• Track crosses private land be careful around stock.
• Recent vegetation trimming has opened the track up substantially for walkers.
• Please keep to the track when crossing private farm land

What to expect on a walking track:

• Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
• Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
• Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
• Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
• Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required