Te Araroa Trail: Okura to Long Bay - Low Tide Crossing

Point to point

• Dacre Cottage: Nestled in the peaceful Karepiro Bay, this historic red-brick homestead is a window into New Zealand’s colonial past. Built in the 1850s by Henry Dacre, it is one of the oldest surviving brick dwellings in the Auckland region. Surrounded by grassy flats and ancient trees, it is the ultimate spot to unpack a picnic and soak up the atmosphere.
• The Estuary Crossing: There is something incredibly novel about crossing an estuary on foot. Walking between the wooden marker poles on the damp sand with the tide lapping at your feet is a memorable experience that defines this trail.
• Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve: Established in 1995, this protected marine playground is a haven for sea life. From the clifftops and shoreline, you can enjoy expansive, uninterrupted views of the sparkling Hauraki Gulf and its outer islands.

Getting There

This is a point-to-point trail, which means you will start in one location and finish in another.

To start at the northern end, head to the southern entrance of the Okura Bush Walkway, located at the end of Haigh Access Road (just off East Coast Road). There is a free gravel car park here. Please note that there are no public toilets at this trailhead, so it is wise to make a pitstop before you arrive.

Because this is a point-to-point track, you have two main options: 1. The Car Swap: Park one vehicle at Long Bay Regional Park (where there are excellent public toilets and changing facilities) and drive another to the start at Haigh Access Road. 2. The Double Back: If you have the energy, you can turn this into a 9km return walk, provided you time the tides perfectly to cross the estuary twice!

Wildlife Spotting

The Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve and its surrounding forests are teeming with native birdlife. Keep your eyes peeled and your ears open for these local residents:

• Tōrea (Pied Oystercatcher): These striking black-and-white birds with bright orange beaks are a common sight year-round, busily foraging for shellfish in the estuary mudflats.
• Tūturiwhatu (New Zealand Dotterel): Keep a respectful distance on the sandy spits. These rare, endearing little shorebirds nest in the sand during spring and summer.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly, inquisitive little birds will likely flutter right alongside you in the forested sections, catching the insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Tūī and Kererū: Listen for the distinctive, metallic chime of the tūī and the heavy, rhythmic wing-beats of the kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon) gorging on berries in the bush canopy.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Summer & Spring: Ideal for warm-weather wading, post-hike swims at Long Bay, and spotting nesting dotterels. The pōhutukawa trees put on a spectacular crimson show in December.
• Autumn & Winter: The bush feels incredibly fresh, atmospheric, and quiet. However, the track will be significantly muddier, so sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes are essential.

Crucial Safety Tip: You must plan this walk around the tides. The estuary crossing should only be attempted within 1.5 to 2 hours of low tide. Check the local tide charts before you set out.

• Sturdy, waterproof footwear for the muddy bush track.
• A small towel to dry your feet after the estuary crossing.
• Plenty of fresh water and sun protection (sunscreen and a hat), as the coastal sections are highly exposed to the elements.

Local & Regional Context

The Okura and Long Bay areas hold deep significance for local iwi (Māori tribes), who historically used the rich estuary and coastal waters as a valuable food basket (mahinga kai) and transport route.

In the mid-19th century, European settlers arrived, led by families like the Dacres, who farmed the land. Thanks to passionate local conservation efforts over the decades, the area was spared from heavy urban development, resulting in the creation of the marine reserve and the protection of the Okura heritage zone. Walking here today, you can truly feel the layers of history beneath your feet.

After the Walk

Once you have completed your coastal trek and washed the sand off your feet at Long Bay, reward yourself at one of these fantastic local spots:

• Kinfolk Cafe: Located just 3.7km away in the heart of Long Bay Village, this stylish, welcoming cafe is famous for its seasonal brunch menu, exceptional specialty coffee, and relaxed local vibe. It is the perfect place to warm up with a flat white and a gourmet toastie.
• Long Bay Surf Club: If you fancy something a bit more celebratory, this family-friendly pub sits just 3.5km from the beach. Offering elevated pub classics, local craft beers, and a great wine list, its outdoor deck boasts gorgeous ocean views—perfect for raising a glass to a successful hike.

3.7km away

Located in the heart of Long Bay Village, Kinfolk Cafe offers thoughtful, seasonal dining, specialty coffee, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, known for its refined brunches and lunches.