Makorori Headland Walk

Loop

For the photography enthusiasts, this trail is a dream. There are multiple natural vantage points along the ridge that offer the perfect "hero shot" of the surf breaks below. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a pod of dolphins playing in the swells or the dark shapes of surfers waiting for the perfect set at "Stock Route" or "Centres."

Beyond the scenery, the headland is a site of immense historical and archaeological interest. Keep an eye out for the eroding cliffs—if you look closely (and safely), you might spot ancient middens (shell deposits). These are physical echoes of the Māori ancestors who lived on and cared for this land centuries ago.

Another unique feature is the link between the two beaches. The trail serves as a scenic bridge between the suburban surf-vibe of Wainui and the wilder, more relaxed atmosphere of Makorori. If you have the time, you can easily turn this loop into a longer afternoon by descending to the beach at either end and walking back along the sand at low tide.

Getting There

Finding the Makorori Headland Walk is straightforward, as it sits just a short 10-minute drive north of Gisborne city.

Most people choose to start at the Wainui side. You can find parking at the bottom of the hill near the end of Wainui Beach, or slightly further along at the Okitu Scenic Reserve. If you are coming from the north, there is also a convenient car park at the northern end of the trail, located right beside State Highway 35 (Whāngārā Road).

Ensure you park in designated areas and avoid parking on the narrow shoulders of the highway, as this is a high-speed zone. The trailhead is clearly signposted from the Okitu side, leading you directly up onto the headland.

Wildlife Spotting

The headland is a fantastic place for birdwatching, offering a mix of coastal voyagers and bush-dwelling locals. Because the trail looks out over the ocean and the Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve, you get the best of both worlds.

• Red-billed Gulls (Tarāpunga): These are common year-round. You’ll often see them hovering in the updrafts along the cliff edges.
• Pied Shag (Kāruhiruhi): Look for these large black-and-white birds perched on the rocks below or drying their wings on the shoreline.
• New Zealand Fantail (Pīwakawaka): As you move through the scrubbier sections of the track, these friendly little birds will likely follow you, darting around to catch the insects you disturb.
• Australasian Gannet (Takapū): Keep your eyes on the horizon. Gannets are frequent visitors, often seen diving vertically into the ocean at incredible speeds to catch fish.
• New Zealand Dotterel (Tuturiwhatu): If you are visiting during spring or summer, keep a sharp eye on the sandy areas near the base of the headland. These rare birds are occasional visitors and are very well-camouflaged.
• Little Penguin (Kororā): While rare to see during the day, these tiny penguins do inhabit the coastline. You might occasionally spot one in the water or hear their distinctive calls if you are near the beach at dusk.

Pro Tip: Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them. Not only are they great for the birds, but they are perfect for checking out the surf or spotting distant ships heading into Gisborne Port.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring and Summer: This is when the coast is at its most vibrant. The pohutukawa trees may bloom with crimson flowers, and the water is an inviting shade of blue. However, it can get very hot, and there is little shade on the headland itself.
• Autumn and Winter: These seasons offer crisp, clear days with incredible visibility. The winter swells are often much larger, providing a dramatic show as massive waves batter the reefs below.

Best time of day: If you really want to see the Tairāwhiti magic, head up for sunrise. As the first city in the world to see the sun, Gisborne’s sunrises are legendary, and the headland offers an unobstructed view of the dawn. Sunset is equally spectacular, casting a golden glow over the hills of the hinterland.

• Water: There are no taps on the trail, so bring a bottle, especially in summer.
• Sun protection: The "East Coast sun" is notoriously strong. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen even on cloudy days.
• Windbreaker: The headland is very exposed. Even on a warm day, the coastal winds can be chilly.
• Footwear: As mentioned, comfortable walking shoes are best for the potentially uneven and steep sections.

Note on Dogs: Please leave your furry friends at home for this one. Dogs are not permitted on the headland walk to protect the local wildlife and nesting birds. However, the nearby Makorori Beach is a popular dog-friendly spot where your pup can run free on the sand.

Local & Regional Context

To walk the Makorori Headland is to walk through history. This area, known as Te Kūrae o Makorori, is deeply significant to the local mana whenua.

Oral traditions tell of long-standing Māori occupation. The legendary figure Rakaiatane established Panehu Pa here. This wasn't just a place to live; it was a strategic masterpiece. The Pa was a fortified lookout equipped with its own internal water supply—a rarity for such a position. From this high vantage point, watchers could ensure the safe passage of waka (canoes) launching from the beach below.

The headland provided the shortest and safest route to Te Toka Ahuru (Ariel Reef), a rich and vital fishing ground. On the ridgeline behind the headland, fire pits were used as navigational beacons. At night or in heavy weather, these fires guided the fishing boats safely back to the shore. When you stand on the ridge today, it is easy to imagine those fires burning against the night sky, lighting the way home for generations of navigators.

For those interested in conservation, there is a side track that crosses State Highway 35 to the Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve. This area represents a remnant of the original coastal forest that once covered the region. If you choose to explore this, please be extremely careful when crossing the highway, as traffic moves quickly.

After the Walk

After you’ve finished the loop and soaked in all that fresh salt air, you’ll likely be ready for some refreshments. Luckily, the Wainui community has two fantastic options just a three-minute drive (2.9km) back toward town.

Wainui Beach Store & Cafe: This is the heart of the local community. It’s a classic beach store with a refined cafe twist. It’s the ideal spot for a post-hike ice cream, a flat white, or a classic "kiwi" snack. The atmosphere is incredibly relaxed—it's perfectly acceptable to turn up with slightly sandy shoes.

Zephyr Wainui: If you’re looking for something a bit more nourishing, Zephyr is a must-visit. This vibrant wholefoods cafe specializes in organic coffee and delicious plant-based kai. Their smoothie bowls and specialty drinks are the perfect way to refuel after your coastal adventure. It’s a great place to sit back, browse your photos from the walk, and soak in the "Gisborne vibe."

The Makorori Headland Walk is more than just a quick bit of exercise; it’s a connection to the history, the nature, and the spirit of the East Coast. Whether you're here for the history, the birds, or simply the "Gram," it’s a walk that never fails to deliver.

2.9km away

A vibrant wholefoods cafe known for its organic coffee, specialty drinks, and delicious plant-based kai, perfect for a nourishing meal or snack after your coastal walk.