Kauri Bushmans Walk
Short walk
Time:
15 min loop
Distance:
300 m
Getting there
The track is located at the Kaipara Harbour between Matakohe and Paparoa, south of Whangarei, and is signposted at the turn-off onto Sterling Road from SH 12.
About the area
The Kaipara Harbour is New Zealand’s largest harbour. It is internationally important as a major roosting and breeding area for coastal and estuarine wading birds such as godwits and New Zealand dotterel. The harbour mouth is very dynamic in contrast to the intricate sheltered estuaries, narrow peninsula, saltmarshes, salt meadows, mangroves and tidal mudflats of the inner harbour. Numerous small, forested reserves occur on the harbour margins.
Kauri Bushman’s Walk is handy to the Matakohe Kauri Museum and is well worth visiting after a trip to the museum.
Description
This short kauri forest walk is gentle and good underfoot, and provides an easy opportunity to enjoy the unique kauri forest environment.
Activities
Bird watching
Flora and fauna
Plan and prepare
- Please note that there is no general store, fuel bowser or supermarket at the site.
- Nearest petrol station north is south Paparoa.
- Nearest toilets are located at the township mentioned above.
- In strong winds, please beware of falling branches.
- Times shown are for a one way journey only, unless otherwise shown. If the return journey is more than 1 hour, food, drink, warm clothes and wet weather gear should be carried.
- On extended bush walks a compass and topographical map are recommended. Topographical maps can be obtained from Land Information New Zealand www.linz.govt.nz and DOC Visitor Centres.
- Streams can be uncrossable after heavy rain and should not be attempted.
- Access to some tracks is by courtesy of the owners, please respect the owner’s property and privacy.
- Some tracks require timings for tidal changes and weather conditions are changeable always keep to the side of caution. A good website to check in preparation is Metservice weather www.metservice.co.nz
- Dogs are not allowed on conservation estates.
What to expect on a short walk:
- Easy walking for up to an hour
- Track is well formed, with an even surface. There may be steps or slopes
- Suitable for people of most abilities and fitness
- Stream and rivers crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes required
back to top