Whakanewha Loop through Nikau forest Preview

1

The start point

The start point is the ‘Sculpture car park’ on Gordons Road, in Whakanewha Regional Park. The easiest way to get here is by car.From the carpark, before heading west on Dotties Lane, have a walk on the beach to the left once across the bridge. About 300m along the beach is a picnic area under magnificent Pohutukawa trees. Please avoid turning right along the beach from the bridge, to protect the rare NZ dotterel nesting sites.

2

Dotties Lane runs parallel to the beach

Dotties Lane runs parallel to the beach from the car parking area, follow along and veer right at the first fork, to continue onto Cathedral Track, see below. (Left on Cathedral track will lead to Omiha Road and into Rocky Bay).

3

At the top of Cathedral Track

At the top of Cathedral Track turn right into a shared driveway that leads down to the road.Cross the junction of Gordons Rd and Carsons Rd and stay right, on Carsons Rd (please take care of oncoming traffic and stay off the road).

4

Pick up the track parallel to the road

Pick up the Tarata track on the right hand side of the road, through the gravel car park.Keep your eyes out for the Tarata Track Tree Trail signage details which helps to identify flora and fauna through easy to use QR codes.

5

Keep on Tarata track

Keep on Tarata track (don’t turn onto Kõwhai track), which stays high and undulates through beautiful bush and the occasional sweeping vistas where old slips have created a view point.The track goes through lovely regenerating bush, kanuka and native forest.

6

At the junction

At the junction (Tarata/Mamaku/Nikau tracks) follow the sign toward the Nikau Track. Follow the majestic Nikau Track all the way back to the road. Cross the road (be careful of traffic on the bend) to the public toilets in the car park to complete your loop walk.