Honeycomb rock, Wairarapa

Image: DOC

Honeycomb Rock Walkway

Located in Honeycomb Rock area in the Wairarapa region

Introduction

Honeycomb Rock is a spectacular outcrop on the Wairarapa coast, so named because of the cell-like weathering pattern which gives the rock a honeycomb appearance.

Track overview

Walking and tramping

5 - 6 hr return Easy: Walking track
Expert: Route

Seasonal restrictions

Closed for lambing during September and October

Dog access

No dogs

About this track

Description

Honeycomb Rock is a spectacular outcrop on the Wairarapa coast, so named because of the remarkable cell-like weathering pattern which gives the rock a honeycomb appearance.

Honeycomb Rock Walkway is entirely within the privately-owned Glenburn Station. The track is flat and easily negotiated, following the coastline across farmland. Shallow bays offer good swimming in calm weather.

Getting there

Glenburn Station, the start of the walkway, is about 60 km east of Masterton. Follow the Gladstone Road to the Te Wharau Road junction about 1 km north of Gladstone. The road is signposted to Glenburn from here and passes through Te Wharau Settlement.

Nature and conservation

A fur sea colony is located about halfway along the walk, on rocks adjacent to the Honeycomb light. Numbers peak during winter when they gather to rest and feed.

History and culture

A few metres to the south of the rock is the wreck of the Tuvalu, a Fijian trader, which ran aground here on its maiden voyage on 11 January, 1967.

Know before you go

  • The walkway is entirely within private property, keep to the marked track.
  • Do not interfere with or disturb stock.
  • There are no toilets, rubbish bins or suitable sources of drinking water.
  • The track can be muddy in places so suitable footwear should be worn.

Places to stay

Glenburn Station

Phone: +64 6 372 7045
Location: Adjacent the Honeycombe Rock walkway
Website: Glenburn Station
Email: info@glenburnstation.co.nz

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