Peninsula Loop Walk
Walking track
Time:
1 hr 30 min - 2 hr
Distance:
4.5 km
Getting there
Mimiwhangata Coastal Park is 48 km from Whangarei and 52 km from Russell. Take the old Whangarei-Russell coastal road, turn-off at Helena Bay and continue on Webb Road. After Teal Bay the road is unsealed, narrow and winding, and unsuitable for towing caravans. Mimiwhangata Coastal Road is after the Ngahau Bay turn-off.
About the area
Find information about tracks and lodgings at Mimiwhangata Coastal Park near Whangarei. Recovering shore bird and marine species can be found at this marine park.
Description
Mimiwhangata coast
The Loop Walk around the headland provides a little of everything that Mimiwhangata has to offer, shady beaches, rocky shores, archaelogical sites, farmland, native vegetation and a chance to glimpse some bird life including the rare brown teal.
It is an informal route that follows the farm road north from the main car park (please respect the privacy of any people using the lodge). The track makes a complete loop sidling around the hill. You can leave or join the track at any number of places and it affords views down the long, sweeping Mimiwhangata Beach or offshore.
Binoculars are useful for viewing the numerous ducks in the ponds. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the brown teal.
Activities
Diving/snorkelling
Fishing
Photography
Sea kayaking
Mimiwhangata is a great place for beach activities such as swimming, snorkelling, picnicking or just relaxing.
There are no boat launching facilities at Mimiwhangata though you may carry small boats from the car park to the sea, and hand-launching of dinghies is permitted from the car park.
The Marine Park offers good fishing opportunities, but you must carefully study the Marine Park Regulations.
Places to stay
Mimiwhangata Lodge, Cottage and Beach House provide a great place for a holiday beside the beach. There is also beach side campground nearby for larger groups.
This is a standard campsite in the Whangarei area.
Plan and prepare
Please note:
- Follow tracks and use stiles where provided.
- The rest of the farm is open for walking. Avoid disturbing stock and ensure gates are left as you found them.
- Farm hazards exist, and some fences are electrified.
- Overnight campervan stays are not permitted.
- Camping is only permitted at Waikahoa Bay.
- Northland reserve bylaws apply to Mimiwhangata Scenic Reserve.
Please help us to look after this special place by:
- Leaving your dogs at home as they are a threat to nesting shorebirds, brown teal and kiwi and also disturb the farm animals.
- Bringing portable stoves and your own liquid fuel as fire is a major concern in dry months. No fires are permitted within the Park or on the beach.
- Removing all your rubbish.
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