Pandora to Tapotupotu Bay
Located in Te Paki Recreation Reserve and Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua in the Northland region
Introduction
This 9 km walk between Pandora and Tapotupotu Bay mainly follows old farm tracks until you reach idyllic Tapotupotu Bay.Pandora to track junction
Time: 1 hr
The track guides you up through vegetation, climbing steadily until you reach a junction. Here you can head towards SH1 via the Pandora Track or follow the track markers and signage towards Tapotupotu Bay.
Track junction to Tapotupotu Bay campground
The track undulates along the top of a ridge, with stunning views across the Te Paki Reserves and to both the north and west coasts, including the sand dunes, Cape Maria Van Diemen, and the distant Cape Reinga lighthouse.
Fernbirds and grey warblers as well as pink and white manuka (in spring) are a highlight on this section.
The track eventually leads you back to the coastal cliffs with dozens of pohutukawa clinging to the rock faces before making your descent into Tapotupotu Bay.
This track from Pandora to Tapotupotu Bay forms part of the Te Paki Coastal Track.
Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga) and Te Paki are located at the northernmost area of New Zealand on the Aupouri Peninsula. Follow State Highway 1 north from Kaitaia approximately 96 km to Te Paki and 111 km to Te Rerenga Wairua.
You have vehicle access to Tapotupotu – turn off SH1 2 km south of Te Rerenga Wairua follow signposts approximately 3 km of gravel road to Tapotupotu Bay.
Pack your insect repellent, sunscreen, and tide chart.
What to expect
This track is best suited to people with good fitness – it is 5 hours 30 mins/9 km one way. Although this is a coastal walk the track is not flat. The track is well formed with several long climbs and the section of track along the ridge goes up and down over the undulations in the landscape.
The track goes close to the cliff edge in places. Keep to the track and supervise children carefully.
Know before you go
If you are walking other sections of the Te Paki Coastal Track adjacent to this section, check the tide times as those tracks can have waves wash over them during high tides and rough seas.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Take the right gear for your trip: Walking and tramping gear lists.
- Tell a trusted person your plans and when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned. Send them the information directly, or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.
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 |
| Full office details | |