Tuhua (Mayor Island) walks
Located in Tuhua (Mayor Island) in the Bay of Plenty region
|
Introduction
Discover beautiful forest and views on walks in the Tuhua (Mayor Island) wildlife refuge.Dog access
Panui beacon
Time: 1 hr return
A short climb to the south of Opo / South East Bay leads to a fairly flat track through forest to the site of the Panui beacon.
Tutaretare lookout
Time:1 hr 30 min return
This steep climb heads north from Opo / South East Bay, finishing with a spectacular view of the crater, the ocean, and the Bay of Plenty coastline.
The Devil's staircase
Time: 3 hr 30 min round trip
This more challenging route takes in part of the crater rim. Follow the track leading north from Opo / South East Bay, as far as the Tutaretare lookout track junction, and then head east around the crater rim. The Devil's staircase includes a ladder climb. Return along the inside of the crater rim and go through Ruru pass, before returning south to Opo / South East Bay.
Around the island
Time: 6-8 hr round trip
This track is not clearly marked and is overgrown in places. It will require the correct preparation, fitness and route finding skills. Please allow a full day to do this walk, and remember to notify the kaitiaki / caretaker before you leave.
These walks start from Opo / South East Bay.
Boats visiting Tuhua (Mayor Island) must land at South East Bay. Boats may only land when the island's caretaker / kaitiaki is in residence.
A number of private charter options offer trips to Tuhua - a list of operators is available from the Tuhua Trust Board.
There is no drinking water available outside Opo / South East Bay.
Enjoy and respect Tūhua by following these rules:
- keep to the marked tracks
- collect all litter and take it off the island with you
- choose a suitable walk for the time available, and write your intentions on the board in the cookhouse before you leave Opo / South East Bay
- no overnight trips are allowed - camping is allowed in Opo / South East Bay only.
Contact
Tuhua Trust Board
Phone: +64 7 579 0580
Email: tuhuakaitiaki@gmail.com
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.