Orokawa Scenic Reserve short walking tracks
Located in Orokawa Scenic Reserve in the Bay of Plenty region
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Introduction
Take one of the short walks in the reserve or combine for a longer coastal walk. Get spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and Waihi Beach, see bays with mature pōhutukawa trees leaning over a sandy beach, and walks though coastal forest which includes kauri.Dog access
A full day coastal walk can be achieved by linking the short walks from Waihi Beach to Ngatitangata Road.
Walkers should 4 hours to walk either direction from Waihi Beach to Ngatitangata Rd.
Waihi Beach to Orokawa Bay
Time: 45 min one way
The walk to Orokawa Bay starts 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.
Good fishing can be found off the rocks at the northern end of Orokawa Bay. Take care for tidal movements and wave conditions which can change suddenly.
Orokawa Bay to William Wright Falls
Time: 40 min one way
The William Wright Falls are located 40 minutes inland from the northern end of Orokawa Bay. The track is tramping grade with multiple stream crossings and should not be attempted in heavy rain.
Orokawa Bay to Homunga Bay
Time: 2 hr one way
The track winds around the headlands north of Orokaway Bay, leading to the popular fishing location of Homunga Bay.
Homunga Bay to Ngatitangata Road
Time: 45 - 60 min one way
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.
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.
Homunga Bay can be accessed from the end of Ngatitangata Road.
Caution: Track may be inaccessible at high tide.
In places on this track, there are cliffs and high drop-offs and areas are changeable by nature. Keep to the track and keep children safe.
If you wish to swim or fish at Orokawa Scenic Reserve, be aware that the coastline can be dangerous, particularly during rough conditions. Several people have died while rock fishing near Homunga Bay.
Help stay safe when rock fishing by:
- Always wearing a life jacket
- Not fishing in exposed areas during rough or large seas (check swell and tide information before you go)
- Observing sea conditions before you fish and never choosing areas that are wet (waves have likely been washing over them)
- Never turning your back on the sea
- Following all warning signs
Read more about fishing safety.
Contacts
| Tauranga Office | |
| Email: | taurangainfo@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
253 Chadwick Road West Greerton West Tauranga 3112 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 9003 Greerton West Tauranga 3142 |
| Full office details | |