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Coromandel Town
3.2 km
1 hour 30 minutes
188 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a quick yet incredibly rewarding walk that combines rich heritage, stunning coastal vistas, and beautiful regenerating forest, the Kauri Block Track is an absolute must-do.
Nestled right on the edge of historic Coromandel Town, this 3.2km loop trail offers a moderate climb of 188 metres and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. It is the perfect outing for families, dog walkers, and anyone wanting a refreshing taste of the Coromandel Peninsula’s natural beauty.
Starting from either of the two trailheads, the Kauri Block Track quickly immerses you in the fresh, earthy scent of regenerating native bush. The trail gets straight down to business, ascending steadily along a scenic ridgeline. While it is a moderate climb that will get your heart rate up, the well-formed path is highly accessible, making it a fantastic option to do with the kids. It is also completely dog-friendly, meaning your four-legged family members can join in on the adventure (just be sure to keep them on a lead).
As you wind your way through the lush canopy, you will find plenty of dappled shade to keep you cool on warmer days. The terrain shifts from leafy forest floor to gravel, offering steady traction underfoot. Soon, the track leads you along the high ridge, where the trees part to tease you with glimpses of the sparkling blue waters of the Hauraki Gulf.
The Kauri Block Track punches well above its weight when it comes to standout features and photo-worthy spots.
Parking is conveniently available at both ends of the track. You can access the trailhead from the top of Harbour View Road or via a right-of-way beside 356 Wharf Road in Coromandel Town. At the Wharf Road end, parking is available opposite the trail entrance.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
200m away
A historic hotel in the heart of Coromandel Town, offering a glimpse into the region's past with traditional pub fare, a garden bar, and a welcoming atmosphere.
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Loop
Accessing the Kauri Block Track is incredibly easy, with parking conveniently available at both ends of the loop.
Both trailheads are just a couple of minutes' drive from the centre of Coromandel Town, meaning you can easily walk to the track from your accommodation if you are staying locally.
Keep your eyes peeled and your ears tuned to the canopy, because this regenerating forest is a sanctuary for native birdlife.
As you walk, you will almost certainly hear the melodious, bell-like song of the tūī, a common year-round resident here. Watch out for the heavy, rhythmic whoosh of wings overhead—that will be the kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon) flying between the fruit-bearing trees.
The cheeky and inquisitive pīwakawaka (fantail) will often flutter closely around you, using your footsteps to disturb insects for an easy snack. If you listen closely, you might also hear the delicate, high-pitched trill of the riroriro (grey warbler) hiding in the foliage, or spot a flock of busy tauhou (silvereye) flitting through the shrubs. For the best birdwatching, try walking in the quiet of the early morning or the soft light of the late afternoon.
The land surrounding Coromandel Town holds deep historical layers. The Te Kauri Pā site tells a story of early Māori occupation, where the high vantage point served as a vital lookout and defensive stronghold. Later, during the 19th-century colonial era, the region became a bustling hub for gold mining and intensive kauri logging.
Today, the Kauri Block Track represents a beautiful story of conservation and ecological rebirth, where the forest is slowly reclaiming the hillsides. If you are keen for a longer hiking adventure, you can easily combine this walk with the nearby Harray Track, creating an extended route through the local hills.
Once you have completed your loop and built up an appetite, head into Coromandel Town to refuel. The town has a fantastic, laid-back food scene with several spots located very close to the trail:
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Zosterops lateralis
Small bird with distinctive white eye-ring. Commonly seen in flocks, feeding on insects, fruit, and nectar.
Best time: Year-round
600m away
Majestically situated in the heart of Coromandel Township, this historic restaurant and bar specialises in fresh local seafood and modern New Zealand cuisine, offering a sun-soaked courtyard and shaded verandas.
600m away
An historic gold mining hotel dating back to 1873, centrally located and offering a range of Monteith's beers on tap, fine wines, and a menu of fresh Coromandel foods in a friendly bar and restaurant setting.
1.7km away
A bustling and vibrant cafe situated in the park in the centre of Coromandel Town, known for its relaxed atmosphere, delicious breakfast, coffee, snacks, and cakes. It's also home to 'Helen the Cat'.