This is part of the Te Araora Trail.
The Te Araroa Trail and provides an important link between the coastal sections at Whananaki and Helena Bay. DOC manages the section that passes through the Kaiikanui Forest.
From the Kaiikanui Road entrance the track follows a well formed old roadway for about 4 km. It then sidles off into the bush to follow a fenceline for much of the way down into a gully, then climbs steeply to a cleared and grassy high point (218 m). There are spectacular views here out to the coast and the Poor Knight Islands.
From here the track continues through private land along the Onekainga section of the Te Araroa Trail to eventually come out at Whananaki North Road.
The DOC track starts off the Kaiikanui Road at its western end. It is approximately 45 km north of Whangārei.
Kaiikanui Road can be accessed either from the north through Helena Bay or alternatively by Pigs Head Road just off Whananaki North Road at Opuawhanga. Be aware that this is a narrow winding dirt road – take care when driving.
Around 1900 this area of forest was opened up for logging and the track itself follows a road that was formed at this time to provide access into the densely forested ridges and valleys.
Prior to this these same ridges were used by ancient Maori to provide access from coastal settlements to the interior and sections of this track follow these early trails.
Stop kauri disease and protect kauri
- Scrub all soil off shoes and gear.
- Use cleaning stations.
- Always stay on the track.
DOC Customer Service Centre
| Phone: | 0800 275 362 |
| Email: | whangarei@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: | Whangārei Office |