Kaihoka Lakes walk
Walking track
Time:
10 min
Distance:
1.3 km
Getting there
At Pakawau, turn left off the main road and head over Pakawau Saddle, turning right on to Kaihoka Road just before Whanganui Inlet. Follow this road for 6 kilometres to Kaihoka Lakes Scenic Reserve.
About the area
Known for its stunning scenery and natural areas, the Golden Bay area, features a number of tracks including the Abel Tasman Inland Track. Farewell Spit and Puponga Farm Park are other area highlights.
Description
Kaihoka Lakes
Coastal hills form a dramatic backdrop to these beautiful lakes. A 10-minute walking track begins beside one lake and heads gently down to the other. There is space to picnic at the car park and further along the road next to the lake.
Dogs and fires are not allowed in Kaihoka Lakes Scenic Reserve.
Activities
Bird watching
Flora and fauna
The reserve is distinguished by its massed nikau palms, which give the walk a tropical feel. Here and there, dense glades of young matai, kahikatea, cedar and tanekaha indicate that the forest is recovering after past disturbance.
Large carnivorous Powelliphanta snails live in the reserve and a variety of water fowl can be seen on the lakes. Shags, paradise ducks, Canada geese and grey ducks all find shelter there among the raupo (bullrushes) and reeds.
Places to stay
There are no huts, and camping is not allowed.
Plan and prepare
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