Path to lighthouse at Cape Reinga

Image: Benhi Dixon | Creative Commons

Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua

Located in Te Paki Recreation Reserve in the Northland region

Introduction

The famous landmark sits at the tip of the Te Paki Recreation Reserve. A highly significant area to Māori, it marks the point from which Māori wairua (spirit) return to their traditional homeland.

Highlights

See the iconic lighthouse and Motuopao Island from Cape Reinga.

Place overview

Facilities

  • Toilets
  • Information panels

Activities

  • Camping
  • Walking and tramping
  • Check, Clean, Dry

    Clean all gear when moving between waterways to prevent the spread of didymo and other freshwater pests.

    How to check, clean, dry your gear.

  • Stop kauri dieback and protect kauri
    • Kauri dieback disease is spread through soil.
    • Scrub soil off shoes and gear and check it's all removed before you go.
    • Use a cleaning station when you enter and leave.
    • Always stay on the track.

    How you can help save kauri

In this section

Find things to do and places to stay Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua

About this place

History and culture

Completed in March 2009, a $6 million upgrade of the visitor facilities was a result of a close working relationship built up over the years between DOC and local iwi and kaitiaki (guardians) of the area, Ngati Kuri.

The waharoa (gateway).
Portico / waharoa

A concrete portico or waharoa (the gateway) leads to the beginning of the new walking track and initially only shows glimpses of Cape Maria Van Diemen and Motuopao Island. As you walk through the portico, the entire vista opens up before you, and Te Werahi Beach appears.

Specially designed panels on the portico’s interior depict a historical map, thought to be the first known map of Aotearoa to be drawn by Tuki Tahua over 200 years ago. The roof on top of the portico is made from certified sustainable wood – eucalypt and cedar.

Interpretation signage at key spots helps you to learn more about the geology, ecology, history and culture of the area.

Getting there

From Kaitaia it is a 1 hour 30 minutes drive north on SH1.

Contacts

Te Hiku / Kaitaia Office
Phone:   +64 9 408 6014
Fax:   +64 9 408 6019
Email:   kaitaia@doc.govt.nz
Address:   25 Matthews Ave
Kaitaia 0441
Postal Address:   PO Box 569
Kaitaia 0441
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