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Tatapouri
11 km
3 hours
66 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a classic New Zealand coastal adventure that perfectly captures the wild beauty of the East Coast, the Tatapouri to Wainui Beach walk is an absolute must-do. Spanning 11 kilometres along Gisborne’s spectacular coastline, this moderate, point-to-point trail takes about three hours to complete. It offers a wonderful blend of rugged, wave-swept rocky platforms, soft sandy beaches, and elevated headland climbs that will leave you breathless—both from the steps and the views.
Your journey begins at the stunning Tatapouri Beach. Before you even lace up your shoes, there is one golden rule for this walk: timing is everything. To safely navigate the extensive shore platforms and rocky shelves, you must time your start for around half-tide or later on a falling tide.
Setting off, you will find yourself wandering along the edge of the Pacific Ocean. The initial stretch is a delightful scramble across wide rock shelves. Be prepared for a bit of an adventure here—the rounded, wet rocks can be incredibly slippery, so watch your footing and take your time. This section is fantastic fun for kids, who will love peer-hunting in the countless rock pools, though you will want to keep a close eye on smaller feet. Note that because of the sensitive coastal birdlife and marine habitats, dogs are not allowed on this trail.
As you meander south, the rugged shoreline gives way to the formidable Makorori Headland. This is where you will tackle the main climb of the day. Gaining 66 metres in elevation, the ascent over the headland provides a moderate physical challenge, but the reward at the top is spectacular. As you reach the crest, the coastline opens up in a dramatic panorama. To the north, the wild shores of Tatapouri stretch out; to the south, the golden sands of Makorori and Wainui beaches curve gracefully towards the horizon. On a clear day, your eyes can trace the coast all the way to the iconic white cliffs of Te Kurī-a-Pāoa (Young Nick's Head) and the distant Māhia Peninsula.
After soaking in the views and snapping some photos, you will descend onto the soft sands of Makorori Beach. From here, the trail weaves through the informal Okitu Beach dunes. This area is lovingly cared for by the local community, and you can choose to follow the charming, sandy paths through the dune vegetation or simply kick off your shoes and walk right at the water's edge.
As this is a point-to-point walk, it requires some logistical planning. It is highly recommended to arrange a shuttle or car swap. The best approach is to leave one vehicle at the southern end of Wainui Beach, specifically at Lloyd George Road, and then drive to Tatapouri to begin the walk. This ensures a convenient pick-up at the trail's conclusion. Limited parking is available at both ends, but arranging a two-car system is ideal.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Arctocephalus forsteri
A large breeding colony of these playful marine mammals can often be seen resting on the rocks below Nugget Point.
Best time: Year-round
Eudyptula minor
The smallest penguin species globally, these 'little blue penguins' can occasionally be seen near the Kaikoura coastline, especially around dusk as they return to their burrows.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
100m away
Located right on the water at the start of the trail, this container café serves excellent coffee from a local roastery and delicious real fruit ice-creams, perfect for a pre-hike boost or post-hike treat. Open seasonally on summer weekends.
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Point to point
The final stretch brings you onto the expansive sands of Wainui Beach, a world-famous surfing hotspot. You will pass the historic Wainui Surf Life Saving Club, a hub of local beach life. If you are walking after heavy rain, or if the tide has pushed in quicker than expected, you can easily detour over the State Highway 35 Hamanatua Stream Bridge to ensure a dry finish to your journey.
Because this is a point-to-point walk, it does require a tiny bit of forward planning. The easiest option is to arrange a classic kiwi car swap with a mate, or have a friend pick you up at the end.
The best strategy is to leave one vehicle at the southern end of the trail on Lloyd George Road at Wainui Beach. Once that car is parked up, drive together in a second vehicle north along State Highway 35 to Tatapouri Beach to begin the walk.
There is limited parking at both ends, so arriving early—especially on beautiful summer weekends—is highly recommended to secure a spot.
The Tairāwhiti coastline is teeming with life, and this walk is a fantastic opportunity to spot some of New Zealand’s unique marine and bird species.
Keep a keen eye on the rocky reefs around the Tatapouri headland. You are highly likely to spot New Zealand fur seals (kekeno) basking lazily on the warm rocks or swimming playfully in the clear, shallow waters. Remember to always give these wild animals plenty of space (at least 20 metres) and never get between a seal and the sea.
The Tairāwhiti region is a place of immense historical and cultural significance. Literally translating to "the coast upon which the sun shines first", this area is famous for receiving the world's very first rays of sunlight each new day.
Looking out from the top of Makorori Headland, your eyes will settle on the distinctive silhouette of Te Kurī-a-Pāoa (Young Nick's Head) in the south. This landmark holds deep spiritual meaning for local iwi (tribes) and was also the first piece of New Zealand land sighted by the crew of Captain James Cook's HMS Endeavour in 1769.
The land you are walking on is rich with Māori heritage, and the local community remains deeply connected to the sea. The restoration of the Okitu dunes is a proud local initiative, reflecting the concept of kaitiakitanga (guardianship and protection of the environment) that is so central to life in this beautiful corner of Aotearoa.
After three hours of coastal fresh air, you will have worked up quite an appetite. Fortunately, there are some incredible local spots to refuel at both ends of the trail:
Charadrius obscurus aquilonius
This highly endangered shorebird nests in shallow scrapes on the ground, making its eggs vulnerable to predators and human disturbance.
Best time: Spring-Summer
Phalacrocorax punctatus
Endemic to New Zealand, these cormorants are distinguished by their pale grey plumage and double crests during breeding season.
Best time: Year-round
Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae scopulinus
This native New Zealand gull is a common sight in coastal towns, easily identified by its bright red bill, eye-ring, and legs.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Morus serrator
These impressive large seabirds are renowned for their spectacular plunge-diving technique, hitting the water at high speeds to catch fish.
Best time: Year-round
11km away
A vibrant, plant-based café located a short walk from the end of the trail at Wainui Beach. They offer organic coffee, superfood smoothies, and nourishing vegan and vegetarian kai. With a relaxed atmosphere and a new playground for kids, it's an ideal spot for a healthy post-hike meal.
11km away
The newest restaurant at Wainui Beach, serving Mexican-inspired, Gisborne-flavoured tacos, fish and chips, and local beers. A lively spot to refuel after your coastal walk, located near the end of the trail.