Tūtira Walkway

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed crown jewel of this hike is the view from the Table Mountain Trig. On a clear day, the panorama is nothing short of breathtaking. To the west, the rugged, often snow-capped peaks of the Kaweka and Maungaharuru Ranges dominate the skyline. Turn to the east, and you’ll see the sweeping arc of the Hawke’s Bay coastline. You can trace the land all the way from the distant Mahia Peninsula in the north down to the iconic jagged cliffs of Cape Kidnappers/Te Kauwae-a-Māui in the south.

Aside from the heights, the lakes themselves are a major drawcard. Lake Tūtira and its smaller twin, Lake Waikopirō, are nestled in a natural basin created by ancient landslides. The way the light hits the water—turning it from a deep navy to a shimmering turquoise depending on the cloud cover—is a photographer’s dream.

For those with an interest in history, keep an eye out for the remnants of the six ancient pā sites (fortified Māori villages) scattered around the lake. While nature has reclaimed much of the earthworks, the strategic importance of these sites becomes obvious as you gain height and see how clearly the surrounding valleys could be monitored from these vantage points.

Getting There

Accessing the Tūtira Walkway is straightforward, making it an excellent day trip from Napier or Hastings.

From Napier, follow State Highway 2 north for approximately 31 km (past the settlement of Bay View and over the Esk Valley hills). Look for the signposted right-hand turn into Lake Tūtira Regional Park. Follow the park road all the way to the end, where you will find ample parking near the DOC campsite and the various track entrances.

The drive itself is beautiful, taking you through the heart of Hawke's Bay’s hill country, but do take care on the winding sections of SH2, as it is a major freight route.

Wildlife Spotting

The entire Lake Tūtira area has been a designated bird sanctuary since 1929, and it remains one of the best places in the region for birdwatching. Because the lake is a wildlife refuge, the sheer volume of birdlife is often much higher than in other parts of the province.

As you walk near the water's edge, look for the New Zealand Scaup (pāpango). These small, dark diving ducks are common here year-round and are great fun to watch as they suddenly pop up like corks after feeding underwater. You’ll also see plenty of Pūkeko foraging in the reeds and the elegant White-faced Heron stalking the shallows.

Once you move into the forested sections and the regenerating bush, the soundtrack changes. The friendly Fantail (pīwakawaka) will often flit alongside you, catching the insects you stir up from the grass. If you’re lucky, you might hear the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of a Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon) flying overhead or see them perched precariously on thin branches while gorging on berries. For the best birdwatching, try to start your walk early in the morning when the "dawn chorus" is at its peak and the birds are most active.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Tūtira Walkway is a true four-season track, but each season brings a different flavour to the experience:

• Spring: This is perhaps the most vibrant time to visit. The paddocks are a brilliant, lush green, and you’ll likely see young lambs playing in the fields. The kowhai trees near the lake are in bloom, attracting nectar-loving birds.
• Summer: Expect high temperatures and a golden, dry landscape. Hawke’s Bay summers can be scorching, so a morning start is essential to avoid the midday heat on the exposed ridgeline.
• Autumn: The air is crisp and clear, often providing the best visibility for those long-range views toward Mahia. The turning leaves of the exotic trees around the lake add a splash of orange and gold to the scenery.
• Winter: While it can be muddy underfoot, a clear winter’s day offers spectacular views of the snow-dusted Kaweka Ranges to the west.

• Water: There is no potable water on the track. Bring at least 2 litres per person, especially in summer.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip are a must, as the farm tracks can be slippery when wet and uneven when dry.
• Sun Protection: Much of the walk is through open farmland with zero shade. Wear a hat and apply plenty of sunscreen.
• Windcheater: Even on a warm day, the wind at the trig can be biting. A light windproof jacket is a life-saver.

A note on accessibility: This trail is kid-friendly for older children who are used to walking, but the 5-hour duration and steep sections might be a bit much for very little legs. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the park to protect the sensitive birdlife and farm livestock.

Local & Regional Context

Tūtira is a place of immense cultural and spiritual significance. To Ngāti Kurumōkihi (the local hapū), the lake was a vital mahinga kai (food gathering place), renowned for its eels (tuna) and birds. The presence of six pā sites around the lake edge speaks to how highly contested and valued this "land of plenty" was for centuries.

In the colonial era, the area became famous through the work of Herbert Guthrie-Smith, a naturalist and station owner who moved to Tūtira in 1882. His book, Tutira: The Story of a New Zealand Sheep Station, is considered a classic of New Zealand literature. It meticulously documents the changes to the landscape as native bush was cleared for farming—a transformation you can still see evidence of today as you walk through the mix of pasture and regenerating forest.

Today, the Regional Park is a testament to conservation efforts. Extensive planting projects are underway to improve the lake's water quality and return the hillsides to their original forested state, ensuring that the "wildlife refuge" status of 1929 continues to mean something for generations to come.

After the Walk

After five hours on the trail, you’ll likely have worked up a massive appetite. Since Tūtira is a bit remote, your best bet for a "refuel" is to head back south toward Napier.

About 25 minutes back down the road in Bay View, you’ll find several fantastic options:

• The Snapper Café: A local favourite for a classic Kiwi lunch. Their fish and chips are legendary, and there’s plenty of outdoor seating to soak up the last of the sun.
• Crab Farm Winery: If you’re in the mood for something a bit more refined, this rustic winery offers incredible platters and main meals in a relaxed, fire-lit setting (great for winter!) or a sunny courtyard.
• The Esk Valley: Keep an eye out for roadside fruit stalls as you drive back through this area. Depending on the season, you can pick up some of the freshest apples, peaches, or real-fruit ice creams in the country—the perfect reward for a day on the hills.

The Tūtira Walkway is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through the layers of Hawke's Bay's history and a front-row seat to its natural grandeur. It’s a challenge for the legs, a feast for the eyes, and a quiet reminder of the beauty that lies just a short drive from the city.