Anaura Bay Walkway

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed crown jewel of this hike is the view from the ridge saddle. On a clear day, the contrast between the deep blue of the ocean and the vibrant green of the East Coast hills is nothing short of spectacular. It’s the kind of view that makes you realise why this area is so spiritually significant to local Māori.

Another highlight is the Motuoroi Island lookout. The island has a rugged, untouched beauty and a fascinating history as a site for traditional greenstone (pounamu) working. Even from the mainland, you can feel the isolation and strength of the landform.

For the history buffs, the area near the start of the track is home to a plaque marking the Hawai Stream. This is where Captain Cook’s crew gathered fresh water in 1769. Standing there, imagining the Endeavour anchored in the bay while the local iwi watched from the shore, adds a profound layer of depth to your walk.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is relatively straightforward, but the drive itself is part of the experience. From Gisborne, head north on State Highway 35. You’ll wind through some beautiful hill country before seeing the turn-off for Anaura Bay.

Follow Anaura Road all the way to the coast. You’ll want to head to the northern end of the bay, past the Department of Conservation (DoC) campground. There is free parking available near the Nuhiti Bridge. The trailhead is clearly marked near the Waipare Stream. If you’re visiting during the summer peak, the campground can be buzzing with families, so arrive a little earlier in the morning to snag a prime parking spot and enjoy the track before the midday heat hits.

Wildlife Spotting

If you’re a bird lover, keep your ears open and your binoculars ready. The Anaura Bay Walkway is a haven for native species.

• Tūī: You’ll hear them before you see them. Their complex, metallic whistles and "chortles" echo through the coastal forest year-round.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little guys are almost guaranteed to follow you along the lower sections of the track, darting through the air to catch the insects you stir up as you walk.
• Kererū (NZ Wood Pigeon): Look up into the larger trees. These heavy-set birds are often seen (and heard with their distinctive whooshing wingbeats) perched precariously on thin branches.
• Kōtare (Sacred Kingfisher): During spring and summer, keep an eye out for a flash of electric blue near the stream or the forest edge.
• Pīhoihoi (NZ Pipit): You’re most likely to spot these in the open paddock sections, camouflaged against the grass.

The best time for wildlife spotting is early morning when the "dawn chorus" is at its peak and the birds are most active before the heat of the day.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The East Coast is famous for its sunshine, but it can be a fickle beast.

• Best Seasons: Spring, Summer, and Autumn are the prime times to visit. In spring, the new growth in the forest is vibrant; in summer, the bay is perfect for a post-hike swim; and in autumn, the weather is often settled and the temperatures are more comfortable for climbing.
• Timing: Start early! The East Coast gets the first light in the world, and there is something truly magical about being on that ridge as the sun climbs higher. Plus, you’ll beat the heat.
• What to pack: There are no facilities on the track itself. Bring plenty of water (at least 1.5 litres per person), sun protection (the NZ sun is fierce, especially in open paddocks), and some high-energy snacks.
• Footwear: While it’s a "moderate" track, the "moderate" often refers to the incline. The ground can be uneven, slippery, and muddy. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are highly recommended over jandals or flat sneakers.
• Weather: Keep an eye on the forecast for heavy rain. The Waipare Stream can rise quickly, and the track can become quite treacherous and slippery when saturated.

Local & Regional Context

Anaura Bay is a place of immense cultural significance. On 21 October 1769, it became the site of Captain James Cook’s second landing in Aotearoa. Unlike his first encounter in Tūranganui-a-Kiwa (Gisborne), the welcome here was peaceful.

The local Māori chiefs provided the crew with food and water, and the botanists on board, Joseph Banks and Daniel Solander, were famously impressed by the Māori gardens. They wrote the first detailed descriptions of Māori horticulture here, noting the incredible skill and neatness with which the local people cultivated kūmara (sweet potato) and other crops.

The area was historically the domain of Tautini, a descendant of the great chief Hauiti. The connection to the land here is deep, and as you walk, you are treading on ground that has sustained communities for centuries. To protect this sensitive ecosystem and the native wildlife, dogs are strictly prohibited on the walkway.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished the loop (or the return trip from the ridge), your legs will likely be craving a rest.

If you’ve packed a picnic, the Anaura Bay beach is one of the best spots in the country to kick back. There are public toilets and picnic tables near the campsite.

• The Tolaga Bay Inn: A classic, historic Kiwi pub. It’s a great place to grab a cold drink and a basket of chips while chatting with the locals. It has a fantastic, laid-back atmosphere that perfectly matches the East Coast vibe.
• Local Cafes: Tolaga Bay has a couple of charming cafes where you can grab a "flat white" and a giant piece of slice to reward yourself for those 150 metres of elevation gain.

The Anaura Bay Walkway is more than just a hike; it’s a breath of fresh Pacific air and a chance to step back into New Zealand’s history. It’s family-friendly (provided the kids are okay with a bit of a hill!), scenic, and soul-soothing. Just remember to leave only footprints and take only photos!