Bryant Memorial Track

Out and back

---

Highlights & Must-See Features

• The Forest-to-Ocean Transition: There is something incredibly magical about starting a walk in a dense, cool rainforest and finishing with the wild Tasman Sea breeze in your face.
• Ngarunui Beach: Known worldwide for its incredible surf, this expansive, black-sand beach is the ultimate destination. It’s an idyllic spot for swimming (in the patrolled areas during summer) or simply beachcombing.
• Incredible Native Flora: The track is a showcase of coastal New Zealand botany. Keep an eye out for the distinct heart-shaped leaves of the kawakawa and the magnificent nīkau palms, which give the forest an almost tropical feel.
• The Water Race Track Connection: If you are craving a slightly longer adventure, the wider reserve connects to the Water Race Track, allowing you to extend your exploration deeper into the dense coastal forest.

---

Getting There

The main trailhead is located on Wainui Road, just a short drive from the Raglan town centre. Look out for the former Bryant Home Children's Bible Camp, as the track begins right beside it.

• Main Trailhead (Wainui Road): There is limited parking available directly at the main entrance. Because of its popularity, these spots fill up very quickly, especially on sunny weekends and during the summer holidays.
• Alternative Access (Earles Place): If the main carpark is full, you can find additional parking at Earles Place. From here, an alternative access path leads you down 50 steps to join the main track.
• Top Tip: To secure a spot without the stress, we highly recommend arriving early in the morning or carpooling with your hiking buddies.

---

Wildlife Spotting

The Bryant Memorial Scenic Reserve is teeming with native birdlife. As you walk under the canopy, keep your ears open for the beautiful chorus of forest birds and your eyes peeled for these local residents:

• Pīwakawaka (New Zealand Fantail): These cheeky, energetic little birds are incredibly common year-round. They love to flutter close to hikers, using your footsteps to stir up delicious insects from the forest floor.
• Tūī: Easily identified by their glossy, metallic-blue feathers and the white tuft under their throats, tūī can be seen and heard year-round, filling the canopy with their complex, metallic chirps and whistles.
• Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): Look up into the larger trees to spot these hefty, green-and-white pigeons. You will often hear them before you see them, thanks to the distinctive, heavy "whoosh-whoosh" sound of their wings.
• Kōtare (Sacred Kingfisher): During the spring and summer months, keep an eye out for a flash of brilliant blue-green near the forest edge. These darting hunters love to perch on branches overlooking open areas.
• Ruru (Morepork): While they are nocturnal and rarely seen during the day, if you find yourself on the trail around dusk, listen out for their iconic, haunting "more-pork" call echoing through the trees.

---

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Best Seasons: The Bryant Memorial Track is a fantastic year-round destination. In Spring and Summer, the track is dry, the kōwhai is in bloom, and Ngarunui Beach is perfect for a refreshing swim. In Autumn and Winter, the forest feels incredibly fresh, the coastal air is crisp, and you will often have the beach almost entirely to yourself.
• Best Time of Day: Start your walk mid-morning to catch the sun filtering beautifully through the tree ferns, or head down in the late afternoon to watch the golden light hit the Tasman Sea.
• What to Bring: Even though it is a short walk, the coastal weather can change quickly. Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip, as the damp forest steps can become slippery. Bring a light windbreaker for the beach, sun protection (sunscreen and a hat), a camera, and plenty of fresh water for the climb back up.
• Family & Safety Info: This walk is highly recommended for families with school-aged children who will love the excitement of reaching the beach. However, due to the steep sections, steps, and uneven terrain, the track is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
• Dog Policy: To protect the delicate native birdlife nesting in the reserve, dogs are strictly not allowed on this track.

---

Local & Regional Context

The Bryant Memorial Scenic Reserve holds a special place in the hearts of the Raglan community. Historically, the land was associated with the Bryant Home, a local institution established to provide convalescent care and fresh sea air for children in need.

The wider Raglan area, known in Māori history as Whaingaroa ("the long pursuit"), is deeply significant to local iwi (tribes), who have held a spiritual and practical connection to these coastlines and forests for centuries. Today, the reserve stands as a vital sanctuary of original coastal forest, protected from urban development so that future generations of kiwis and international visitors can experience Whaingaroa's wild, untouched backyard.

---

After the Walk

After conquering the uphill return climb, you will definitely have worked up an appetite. Luckily, Raglan is home to some of the best food and coffee in the Waikato. Here are our favourite spots to refuel:

• Cala Raglan (2km away): Located just a quick drive down the road, this rustic, beautifully restored woolshed cafe and restaurant offers spectacular views of the surf. It features a wonderfully family-friendly atmosphere, an outdoor kids' play area, an array of New Zealand wines, and fantastic vegan options.
• The Shack (5km away): Situated right in the heart of the Raglan town centre, this local institution is famous for its top-tier specialty coffee and exceptional Kiwi-style breakfast and lunch menus. It has a super relaxed, coastal-chic vibe that welcomes sandy-toed hikers with open arms.
• Orca Eatery & Bar (5km away): If you fancy dining right on the water, head here. This casual yet stylish eatery serves up hearty post-hike meals, with a menu championing fresh local seafood, premium steaks, and towering burgers, alongside a full bar overlooking the harbour.
• Harbour View Hotel Raglan (5km away): For those who prefer a classic, historic pub experience, this iconic 1870s hotel is the spot. Grab a seat on the verandah, enjoy a cold pint of local craft beer, and soak up the beautiful, tranquil views of the Raglan harbour.

5km away

A popular cafe and restaurant in Raglan town centre known for its New Zealand cuisine, excellent coffee, and a modern, relaxed atmosphere.