Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway

Loop

Eventually, the track begins its descent, leading you down to a stony, boulder-strewn beach below. If you have timed your walk correctly, you can complete the full loop by returning along the shoreline. This beach section is a fun, hands-on adventure involving a bit of boulder hopping and a close-up look at the towering cliffs from below.

Important Safety Warning: The shoreline return is only safe and passable at low tide. You must check the Mangawhai Heads tide timetable before setting out. Aim to reach the beach section within two hours of low tide. If the tide is high, or if the sea is surging wildly through the rocks, do not attempt it—simply retrace your steps back along the clifftop track.

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Highlights & Must-See Features

• The Clifftop Panoramas: The lookout points along the ridge line offer some of the best photo opportunities in Northland. On a sunny day, the contrast of the deep blue ocean, golden sand, and lush green bush is incredibly photogenic.
• The Natural Rock Archway: Located on the beach section of the walk, this magnificent, wind-carved rock arch is a geological masterpiece and a favourite spot for a classic silhouette photo.
• Ancient Coastal Forest: Walking beneath the gnarled branches of giant pōhutukawa (New Zealand's Christmas tree) is a magical experience, especially when they burst into vibrant crimson blooms during the summer months.
• Rugged Geology: Keep an eye out for the fascinating rock formations and exposed geological strata along the shoreline—a physical record of millions of years of volcanic activity and ocean erosion.

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Getting There

The trailhead is located at the end of Wintle Street, Mangawhai Heads, roughly a 90-minute drive north of Auckland.

There is ample parking available at the Kaipara District Council car park, situated right next to the Mangawhai Surf Life Saving Club. Here, you will also find handy public toilets and rubbish bins. Because this is one of the most popular walks in the region, the car park can fill up very quickly on sunny weekends, public holidays, and throughout the summer peak. We highly recommend arriving early in the morning to secure a spot and enjoy the trail before the afternoon heat sets in.

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Wildlife Spotting

The coastal forest and shoreline along the walkway are teeming with native New Zealand birdlife. As you walk through the shaded forest sections, listen out for the distinctive rustling of leaves and melodic bird calls.

Keep your eyes peeled for the heavy-flapping kererū (native New Zealand wood pigeon) resting in the canopy, and the cheeky tūī with their iridescent blue-black feathers and white throat tufts. Friendly pīwakawaka (fantails) are also common companions, often fluttering close to hikers to catch the insects kicked up by your boots.

Down on the shore, you will see plenty of tarāpunga (red-billed gulls) soaring on the thermal winds. If you are lucky, you might even spot the rare, endangered tūturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterel) nesting in the sand. Please respect any fenced-off nesting areas on the beach and give these precious birds plenty of space. Because of these sensitive nesting habitats, dogs are strictly prohibited on this walkway.

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Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Summer: Offers the classic Kiwi coastal experience, complete with blooming red pōhutukawa trees and the perfect weather for a post-hike swim at the beach.
• Autumn & Spring: These transitional seasons provide cooler, highly comfortable hiking temperatures and fewer crowds on the trail.
• Winter: Crisp, clear winter days offer the most spectacular, sharpest visibility for spotting distant islands on the horizon.

• Footwear: Leave the jandals (flip-flops) at home. Sturdy running shoes or light hiking boots with good grip are essential for navigating the steep dirt paths, wooden steps, and slippery, wet rocks on the beach.
• Sun & Wind Protection: Much of the clifftop track is highly exposed to the elements. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and a windbreaker jacket, as the coastal breezes can be surprisingly brisk.
• Hydration & Snacks: Bring plenty of drinking water (at least 1.5 litres per person) and some energy-boosting snacks to enjoy at one of the scenic clifftop seats.

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Local & Regional Context

The Mangawhai area carries deep significance. In te reo Māori, Mangawhai translates to "stream of the stingray," referencing the rich marine life of the estuary. The dramatic cliffs themselves are a geological marvel, formed from ancient volcanic activity and layers of marine sediment that have been sculpted over millennia by the relentless forces of the Pacific Ocean.

By walking this track, you are also stepping onto a piece of Te Araroa, the national trail that stretches 3,000 kilometres from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Local community conservation groups work incredibly hard to protect this fragile environment, managing predator control to ensure that native birds like the kākā and dotterel can continue to thrive here.

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After the Walk

After tackling the steps and boulder hopping, you will have worked up a serious appetite. Fortunately, Mangawhai has a fantastic local food scene just minutes from the trailhead:

• The Bothy (1.7km from the trailhead): Located just up the road, this charming, tiny shed-cafe is famous among locals for serving the absolute best flat white coffee between Whangārei and Warkworth. Grab a seat in the sun and pair your brew with one of their legendary gourmet sourdough toasties.
• Wood Street Pizzeria (2.6km from the trailhead): If you are hiking with the family, this lively, ultra-welcoming spot is the perfect place to celebrate finishing the loop. They serve up delicious, wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and a fantastic range of local craft beers. The kids will love the chalkboard tables and retro arcade games.
• Brewed As Café (2.6km from the trailhead): A vibrant, creative hub known for its exceptional specialty Turning Point Coffee and a bold, inventive menu featuring delicious Asian-fusion flavours. It’s an awesome spot to sit back, relax, and swap stories about your coastal adventure.

2.6km away

A family-friendly venue in Mangawhai Heads, famous for its delicious pizzas, salads, and munchies. They also offer a great selection of local craft beer and wine, with chalkboard tables and arcade games to keep younger visitors entertained.