Magnificent views from Waihi Trig Walk
tree cover all the way, it’s good to do in both summer and winter because it gives protection from sun, wind and rain.
As you gain elevation the vegetation changes from native trees to pines. Pine needles cover much of the track - making it lovely and soft to walk on.
At the top, 151 meters above sea level we burst out to magnificent views of the coastline. We could see Mayor, Whale and White islands, Mt Maunganui, and Mt Edgecombe. A ‘tree trunk seat’ had been cut into a pine, and a rough wooden frame nailed between trees to ‘frame’ the view, providing a perfect photo setting.
The return walk, including photo stops took just over an hour.
When we reached the lake again, we followed signs from the picnic spot, to Pohutukawa Reserve. This was a rougher trail leading through a stand of native bush with several enormous old puriri trees, which were well worth the little bit of mud to get there.
In 20 minutes we reached the reserve – an open area with picnic tables, high above the north end of the beach.
From here steps led down to the beach and we continued north over the headland to Orokawa Bay. This is an incredibly beautiful walk with sea views all the way. We wandered to the far end of the bay under shady pohutukawas, and after a picnic lunch by a little stream, returned along the white sand. It was one of those magic winter days.