Natural charms of Waih¯ı Beach
With the kids off school and the sun (hopefully) shining, the festive season is the perfect time to get out and explore the Waikato area’s backyard. Over the next two weeks, we’re revisiting some of the region’s best tramps and sights according to adventu
After years of chasing gold flecks in the region’s bedrock, weary gold miners descended on the small coastal township of Waih¯ı Beach during the 1900s. With the beach’s alluring sandy beaches and po¯hutukawa-fringed headlands, the retiring old-timers were on to a good thing. There are plenty of relaxing adventures to tick off; some places you can drive to, while others need snacks and a pair of sturdy walking shoes. Highlights include tackling the headlands to Orokawa Bay and going south along the narrow isthmus to Bowentown Reserve with its hidden caves and hill fort remnants. Don’t forget the togs for a refreshing dip, and finish your day by strolling the reserve’s meandering dune paths. Here are five family-friendly walks in this laid-back destination.
Orokawa Bay Walk | Waih¯ı Beach
This coastal pathway lopes around headlands fringed with po¯hutukawa before arriving at a secluded bay with a swoon-worthy white sandy beach. Starting from the northernmost point of Waih¯ı Beach, the path climbs steadily for about 30 minutes through shrubby coastal forest dappled with sunlight and the courtship tunes of freshly hatched cicadas. Cliffs add to the dramatic vistas but keep an eye on youngsters as they run ahead. Once you reach the upper exposed headland, it’s a quick 15-minute amble downhill past kawakawa and tree ferns to the bay, where lofty po¯hutukawa provide pockets of shade for picnicking and whiling away a few hours. Bring a hammock to sling between the gnarly branches and enjoy views of wildlife refuge Tu¯ hua/mayor Island. On your return, it’s a quick climb to the headland, then a leisurely stroll down to Waih¯ı Beach.
Need to know: The beach is not suitable for swimming because of its strong undertow. Allow 45 minutes each way and plenty more for relaxing. Parking is available at The Esplanade, Waih¯ı Beach. Walking only. No dogs.
Bowentown Domain | Bowentown Heads
Plenty of tribes have battled for this headland, and it’s easy to see why with its formidable views across the northern entrance to Tauranga Harbour. Two pa¯ sites remain, one of which is Te Kura a Maia, which appropriately translates to “the training ground for young warriors”. Many of the pa¯ ’s features, including terraces and large defensive ditches, are still visible near the carpark. The steep trig path at the carpark’s eastern end is only suitable for walking or buggypushing extremists. It flattens off after the first gut-busting paved section, and you can take a breather and watch boats navigating the churning waters between Matakana Island and the headland. Allow five minutes to the top for postcard views.
Need to know: Parking is available at the Bowentown Domain upper car park off Seaforth Rd. Toilets at Anzac Bay. Only suitable for walking. Dogs on leads.
Cave Bay | Bowentown Heads
Explorers will love poking around tall volcanic rock columns and small sunbeam-lit caverns at this secluded bay beneath the headland. Visit near low tide for the best experience as most caves become accessible. Steep stairs from the carpark emerge on a small boulder field which you’ll need to rock-hop across to get to the beach. Unfortunately, this is not a swimming destination; nearby Anzac Bay is a much better alternative.
Need to know: Allow five minutes one-way from the Bowentown Domain upper carpark off Seaforth Rd. Toilets at Anzac Bay. Walking only.
Trig Walk and Water Reservoir Loop | Waih¯ı Beach
The Water Reservoir Loop is a picturesque 20-minute dose of nature, and the easy, flat trail is ideal for little legs. But for some glute-burning action, branch off the loop and ascend past pine forests and mature tree ferns to the 151m-high trig. The vantage point has impressive views of the township and offshore volcanoes poking through the bay. Allow 90 minutes return for the 3km trail.
Need to know: Signposted off Pacific Rd. Toilets available. Walking only to the trig. Bikes and buggies suitable for Water Reservoir Loop. Dogs on leads.
Athenree Wetland Loop | Athenree
This is a 20-minute stroll around an ecological reserve.binocular-toting bird-twitchers could glimpse threatened wetland species matuku/ Australasian bittern, moho pereru¯/ banded rail or tu¯ turiwhatu/new Zealand dotterel. Follow the wooden trail markers through regenerating shrubs and flax,
Need to know: Steele Rd between Athenree and Waih¯ı Beach. Only suitable for walking. No dogs allowed.