Te Kuri Farm Walkway

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The absolute crown jewel of this hike is the Town Hill lookout. Once you reach the summit, the world seems to open up. On a clear day, the views are nothing short of spectacular. To the south, you can trace the curve of the coastline all the way to the Māhia Peninsula. Looking west, you’ll see the distant, rugged peaks of Maungapohatu on the fringes of the legendary Te Urewera wilderness. Directly below you, the city of Gisborne and the vast Poverty Bay flats spread out like a green and gold quilt.

Aside from the views, the semi-coastal forest is a major highlight. This is a rare remnant of the type of bush that once blanketed the foothills of this region. As you walk through the gullies, keep an eye out for massive pūriri and kohekohe trees. These native giants provide a lush, tropical feel that contrasts beautifully with the open ridges covered in kānuka and the rows of plantation radiata pine. It’s a unique ecological sandwich that tells the story of how the New Zealand landscape has evolved over the decades.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is relatively straightforward, but the final approach requires a bit of local knowledge. From Gisborne, head towards the northern outskirts to Shelley Road.

While there is a large car park and picnic area at the very end of the road, the last kilometre is unsealed and often peppered with potholes that can be a bit treacherous for smaller cars. To save your suspension (and your nerves), we recommend doing what the locals do: park your car on the road verge near house number 123 Shelley Road. From there, it’s a pleasant 500-metre walk to the official start of the track. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind!

Wildlife Spotting

The mix of open pasture and dense forest makes the Te Kuri Farm Walkway a haven for birdlife. As you move through the bush-clad gullies, the most common sound you’ll hear is the melodic chime of the tūī. These boisterous birds are present year-round and are often seen swooping between the pūriri trees.

Keep your eyes peeled for the kererū (New Zealand pigeon). You’ll likely hear the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before you see them perched heavily on a branch. In the quieter, scrubbier sections, the friendly pīwakawaka (fantail) will often flit around you, hoping your footsteps stir up a few insects for their lunch. If you’re lucky and have a keen ear, you might even hear the delicate, high-pitched warble of the riroriro (grey warbler) hiding in the kānuka.

Because this is a working farm, you’ll also be sharing the trail with plenty of four-legged residents. Cattle and goats are common sights. While they are generally used to walkers, always give them plenty of space and remember the golden rule of the New Zealand backcountry: leave all gates exactly as you found them.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Te Kuri Farm Walkway is best enjoyed in Spring, Summer, or Autumn.

• Spring: This is a beautiful time to see the farm coming to life, but there is one very important catch. The track is closed annually for lambing season, typically from 1 August until Labour Weekend (late October). Always check the local council or DOC updates before heading out in early spring.
• Summer: The views are at their crispest, but it can get incredibly hot on the exposed farm sections. Aim for an early morning start to beat the Gisborne heat and catch the "first light" that the region is famous for.
• Autumn: This is perhaps the best time for hiking, with cooler temperatures and more stable track conditions.

• Sturdy footwear: This isn't a walk for jandals. The clay sections can be slippery even when it looks dry.
• Water: There is no drinkable water on the trail, so bring at least 1.5 litres per person.
• Sun protection: The ridge sections are very exposed. Wear a hat and plenty of sunscreen.
• Layer up: Even on a warm day, the wind can whip up off the Pacific once you hit the lookout.

Local & Regional Context

The Tairāwhiti region is steeped in history, and Te Kuri Farm is no exception. The name Te Kuri refers to "The Dog," and you’ll notice the prominent white cliffs of Young Nick’s Head (Te Kurī-a-Pāoa) across the bay, which was the first land sighted by the crew of Captain Cook’s Endeavour in 1769.

Walking this land offers a window into the agricultural heritage that built Gisborne. The Poverty Bay flats are some of the most fertile lands in the country, and seeing them from the heights of Town Hill gives you a real sense of why this area is known as the "Garden of New Zealand." The presence of the native forest remnants amidst the farmland is a testament to the ongoing balance between production and conservation in the region.

After the Walk

After you’ve conquered the hill and made it back to your car, you’ve well and truly earned a treat. Luckily, Gisborne has some fantastic spots to refuel.

If you’re after a quick, high-quality fix, head to Curbside Kitchen on Ballance Street (about 4.5km away). Their sugar-coated custard donuts and fluffy brioche are local legends — perfect for replacing those burnt calories.

For a more substantial "brunch vibe," Flagship Eatery near the Inner Harbour is a must-visit. Their homemade crumpets and exceptional coffee are the stuff of dreams. If your walk finishes a bit later in the day, head to the Wharf Bar & Grill or Lone Star at the Inner Harbour. Sitting outside at the Wharf with a cold drink and some fresh local seafood while watching the sunset over the water is the perfect way to cap off your Te Kuri adventure.

5.5km away

A trendy cafe near the Inner Harbour, celebrated for its good food, great coffee, and homemade crumpets, offering a vibrant atmosphere for breakfast or brunch.