Cape Reinga to Te Werahi Beach
Walking track
Time:
30 min
Distance:
1.25 km to Te Werahi Beach
Getting there
Cape Reinga and Te Paki are located at the northernmost area of New Zealand on the small, narrow Aupouri Peninsula, approximately 60 km north of Kaitaia. Just follow State Highway 1 north.
From Te Paki onwards, follow Cape Reinga Road to Cape Reinga until you reach the tar-sealed car park. Cape Reinga Road is an unsealed road and gets very busy over the summer months. Please drive slowly and take extra caution.
About the area
Cape Reinga and Te Paki are on the northern tip of the North Island, an area steeped in history and Maori tradition. The area provides easy access to idyllic campgrounds, great walking tracks and picnic areas.
Description
View towards Te Werahi Beach and Cape
Maria van Diemen in the background
From Cape Reinga the track follows the West Coast leading you down past steep cliffs to the long, sweeping Te Werahi Beach. This section makes a nice short walk or half day excursion. At Te Werahi you will notice the coastline is wilder than the secluded north/east coast bays.
If you wish to continue or link to Te Werahi Gate - Twilight Te Werahi Loop the walk along Te Werahi Beach is about 3 km and takes nearly one hour. The loop can be accessed at the far end of the beach.
This track between Cape Reinga and Te Werahi Beach forms part of the Cape Reinga Coastal Walkway.
Places to stay
This is a standard campsite in the Kaitaia area.
This is a standard campsite in the Kaitaia area.
Plan and prepare
You may want to time your arrival at Te Werahi Stream to avoid high tide, which makes the stream crossing more difficult.
Safety and hazards
Take care getting around the rocks at the north end of the beach. When the tide is up it can be a bit tricky with waves rushing in.
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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