Sir James Carroll Walkway

Out and back

The undisputed crown jewel of the walk, however, is the site dedicated to Sir James Carroll. The walkway leads you to a specific, revered tī kōuka (cabbage tree) which marks the birth site of this legendary New Zealander. It is a rare thing to stand at the very spot where a person of such historical magnitude began their life.

For the photographers among you, the views of the Wairoa Bridge reflecting in the river during the "golden hour" just before sunset are spectacular. The contrast between the modern town across the water and the historical, revitalised banks of North Clyde makes for some wonderful shots.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is a breeze. If you are driving into Wairoa via State Highway 2, you simply head toward the river. The walkway begins on the northern side of the Wairoa Bridge, right on River Parade.

A great landmark to look for is the Vista Motor Lodge; the start of the path is located almost directly opposite the lodge. There is ample free street parking available all along River Parade. Thanks to recent community improvements, the River Parade Reserve area has seen significant upgrades, including better parking facilities and clearer signage, making it very accessible for visitors.

Wildlife Spotting

Don’t forget to look up! Thanks to extensive native plantings by the local community, the Sir James Carroll Walkway has become a thriving corridor for birdlife. The restoration of native flora has brought the "locals" back in droves.

• Fantail (Piwakawaka): These cheeky little birds are almost guaranteed companions on your walk. They love to follow hikers, flitting through the air to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Tūī: Listen for their distinctive, melodic chiming and guttural clicks. They are common year-round, especially when the flax or kōwhai are in bloom.
• Kererū: If you hear a heavy whoosh-whoosh of wings, look into the larger trees for the New Zealand Wood Pigeon. Their iridescent green feathers and white "singlets" are easy to spot.
• Silvereye (Tauhou): Small and energetic, these birds move in quick flocks through the shrubs.
• Swamp Harrier (Kāhu): Keep an eye on the sky over the river; you might see these large birds of prey circling on the thermals looking for a meal.

The best time for bird watching is early morning or late afternoon when the air is cooler and the birds are most active.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Sir James Carroll Walkway is a true year-round destination, but each season brings its own flavour:

• Spring: This is perhaps the most vibrant time to visit. The kōwhai trees burst into brilliant yellow flowers, attracting nectar-loving birds like the Tūī.
• Summer: The walkway is a great escape from the Hawke’s Bay heat. The "North Clyde" side is well-planted, providing plenty of shade. It’s the perfect spot for a summer picnic by the river.
• Autumn: The light in Wairoa during autumn is golden and soft, making for the best photography conditions. The air is crisp, and the walk is refreshing.
• Winter: Even on a clear winter day, the path remains accessible and puddle-free for the most part. It’s a great way to get some vitamin D during the shorter days.

• Sun Protection: Even though there is shade, the New Zealand sun is fierce. Wear a hat and sunscreen, especially if you plan to sit by the river for a while.
• Hydration: It’s a short walk, but it’s always wise to carry a reusable water bottle.
• Footwear: Because the trail is so flat and well-maintained, standard trainers or even sturdy sandals are perfectly fine. No heavy hiking boots are required here!
• Connectivity: If you’re feeling energetic, you can cross the Wairoa Bridge at the end of your walk to connect with the Wairoa Township Riverside Walkway on the southern bank, effectively doubling your scenery.

Local & Regional Context

To walk this path is to walk through the heart of Ngāti Kahungunu territory. North Clyde has long been a Māori stronghold and carries immense cultural weight. The namesake of the walk, Sir James Carroll (also known by his Māori name, Timi Kara), was a man of two worlds. Born to an Irish father and a Māori mother of noble lineage, he became a bridge between cultures during a formative time in New Zealand’s history.

Carroll was a trailblazer, becoming the first Māori person to hold the role of acting Prime Minister (between 1909 and 1911) and the first Māori to be knighted. His philosophy of tatau tatau (meaning "we are all one" or "all of us together") is a legacy that still resonates in Wairoa today.

The walkway also showcases the incredible work of local conservationists. The banks are lined with native species like pohuehue, mingimingi, akeake, nīkau, and of course, the tī kōuka. These plants aren’t just for show; they help stabilise the riverbanks and provide a vital ecosystem for the local fauna.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your stroll and soaked in the history, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Fortunately, Wairoa has some fantastic local spots to refuel:

• Oslers Bakery & Cafe: Located just a 5-minute walk (0.3km) away, this is an absolute Wairoa institution. You cannot leave town without trying one of their award-winning pies. It’s the perfect place for a casual coffee and a treat.
• Vista Bar & Grill: Situated right across from the trailhead, this is the most convenient option for a sit-down meal. They serve classic Kiwi fare in a relaxed setting—ideal for a celebratory lunch or dinner after your walk.
• Wairoa Club Restaurant: Just a short distance away, the club offers a friendly, local atmosphere. It’s a great spot to grab a cold drink and chat with the locals about the town's history.
• Eastend Cafe: Another wonderful local option for those looking for a relaxed cafe vibe and a good range of light meals.

The Sir James Carroll Walkway is more than just a 1.5km path; it is a tribute to a great leader and a testament to a community that values its heritage and environment. It’s a must-do for anyone wanting to truly understand the spirit of Wairoa.

Oslers Bakery & Cafe

300m away

Wairoa's iconic and award-winning bakery and café, known for its pies and a wide selection of baked goods, perfect for a quick bite or a coffee.