This track is best suited to people with good fitness. Although this is a coastal track, it is not flat. The track is well formed or follows sections of beach with several long climbs up to ridges which go 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.
Fire is a real risk for the reserve and your safety, no fireworks, paper/sky lanterns or open fires at any time of year. Gas/contained flame cookers are permitted. Maintain a 3-metre distance between groups to reduce possible spread of fire.
Always thoroughly clean your equipment (cars/shoes/camping gear etc.) before and after trips to minimise spreading invasive pests, weeds, and diseases.
An intentions Book is provided at the Te Ahu Centre, Kaitaia.
Feral dogs in Te Paki Recreation Reserve
Feral dogs have been sighted near the Te Paki Coastal Track around Twilight Beach and Scott’s Point including 90 Mile Beach. We advise that you:
- do not walk the area alone
- do not approach any dogs
- do not leave food or scraps that may attract scavenging by dogs
- report any sightings to Far North District Council dog control 0800 920 029 if safe to do so – GPS coordinates and photos are helpful.
These tracks may be closed in the future for dog control work.
Lagoon entrance may block after rain
Be aware the Waitahora lagoon entrance (near the eastern end of the track) blocks on occasion after heavy rain or storm events. These flood the lagoon and submerge the boardwalk.
The boardwalk has marker posts which can be followed even when submerged. However it can be so flooded that the markers are not visible and is therefore unsafe to cross. There is no alternative track route when this occurs.
What to bring
Adequate preparation and equipment needed. Bring all the usual tramping/camping gear, and the following:
- tide charts - check the tide times as sections of tracks can have waves wash over them during high tides and rough seas
- topographical map
- swimming gear
- insect repellent (especially in summer)
- sunscreen/hat/sunglasses
- consider carrying an antihistamine/epipen as there are large numbers of wasps in places along the track and in campsites
- plenty of drinking water (several litres) as streams/water supplies may be dried up in summer – conserve water
- water filter/purification tablets or gas cooker for boiling water.
Safety
For your safety, note that:
- weather can be changeable with sudden downpours of rain increasing stream levels this may delay your progress be prepared to stay longer than intended
- tracks may be slippery in wet weather, and larger streams may be uncrossable
- you may not be able to cross some streams at around high tide and you may need to wait for the tide to recede
- there is limited mobile reception in Te Paki – tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back
- there are plenty of mosquitoes and sandflies – make sure your tent is mosquito proof and carry insect repellent
- do not leave your vehicle unattended while walking the track thefts has occurred in this area
- the coastal areas of New Zealand is susceptible to Tsunamis, make yourself familiar with information at site and plan your escape route
- wasp numbers are high from January through to April, carry antihistamine cream or tablets as a precaution. Cover food and keep lids on sweet drinks. Wear light-coloured clothing as wasps are more likely to attack dark-coloured objects if their nest is disturbed
- beware rogue waves or ocean surges when fishing or walking near the coast.
Water safety
Be aware that the beaches along the track and at campsites are challenging place for swimming and can be dangerous. There are rough seas, strong currents and it gets deep quickly.
The nearest surf lifesaving and coastguard stations are over an hour away, so if you get into trouble it can take a long time to get help. The safest place to swim is in the lagoons and estuaries beside the campsites.
If you plan to enjoy the water, learn how to stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing.
No animals allowed
No domestic or other animals including dogs, cats, birds, goats, sheep or horses are allowed in the Te Paki Recreation Reserve including tracks and campsites. A current certified disability assist dog is allowed, carry evidence of the certification with you at all times.