Orokawa Scenic Reserve short walking tracks
Walking track
Getting there
Orokawa Bay is located north of Waihi Beach, off State Highway 2 at the end of Waihi Beach road. The track starts at the northern end of Waihi Beach.
About the area
Orokawa Scenic Reserve contains uncommon remnants of coastal forest, pohutukawa-fringed beaches, beautiful views and picnic spots, and good rock fishing.
Orokawa Scenic Reserve has beautiful coastal views, good rock fishing and lovely picnic spots throughout. There are many historic pa sites within the reserve and mine tunnels along the coast are reminders of the largely unsuccessful attempts to extract gold from this area. There are various walks around Orokawa Bay and Homunga Bay with numerous nikau plams, pohutukawa and puriri trees.
Description
Waihi Beach to Orokawa Bay
Time: 45 min one way
The walk to Orokawa Bay commences at the northern end of Waihi Beach. It may not be possible to access this track from the beach at times of high tide and strong swell. The track is popular and skirts the coastal headlands before descending into Orokawa Bay. This beach is not considered safe for swimming due to the steep grade of the seafloor, but is popular for picnicking with its lovely overhanging pohutukawa.
Orokawa Bay to William Wright Falls
Time: 1 hr return
At the very northern end of the beach, above the Orokawa Stream is a flat area where the track to William Wright Falls begins. Numerous crossings of this small stream and the spectacular native nikau palms are features of this walk. The falls are 30m high, and are best seen after heavy rain. Return the same.
Orokawa Bay to Homunga Bay
Time: 1 hr 30 min one way
The track to Homunga Bay continues along the coastline, skirting headlands and coastal cliffs and passing through small stream gullies containing puriri and nikau palms that create a varied and picturesque walk. Parts of this track cross private land by courtesy of the owners.
Homunga Bay to Ngatitangata Road
Time: 45 - 60 min one way up
Homunga Bay can be explored before returning the same way, or follow a pole-marked route through adjacent farmland to Ngatitangata Road. As this is a steep climb up, many people who wish to do a one way choose to start here and walk through to Waihi Beach.
Activities
Fishing
Plan and prepare
You must be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on longer day walks. Ensure you have strong, comfortable boots, warm clothing, a good rain coat, first aid kit, food and drink, sun hat and sunscreen. It is also advisable that you leave your tramping intension with a reliable person, in case you get lost.
Caution: Track may be inaccessible at high tide.
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
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