Te Whara Track

Point to point

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Getting There

The Te Whara Track is located at the southern tip of Whangārei Heads, roughly a 35-minute drive from Whangārei.

Because this is a point-to-point hike, you have a couple of options for logistics: 1. The Car Shuffle (Highly Recommended): Park one vehicle at the Ocean Beach car park on Ranui Road (the finishing point), and drive a second vehicle to the Urquharts Bay car park (the starting point). 2. The Road Loop: If you only have one car, you can complete the hike and then walk an additional 4.5 kilometres back to your starting point via the coastal road. However, this road walk is paved, exposed, and lacks the scenic charm of the main track.

Both the Urquharts Bay and Ocean Beach car parks have public toilets available.

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Wildlife Spotting

The Bream Head Scenic Reserve is a pest-controlled ecological island, making it a vital sanctuary for New Zealand’s unique native birds. As you walk under the canopy, keep your eyes and ears open for these local residents:

• Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): These large, iridescent green and bronze birds are common year-round. Listen out for the heavy, distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings.
• Tūī: Famous for their metallic blue-green feathers, white throat tufts, and loud, chiming birdsong.
• Toutouwai (North Island Robin): These cheeky, inquisitive little grey birds are known to hop right down onto the track to inspect your boots for kicked-up bugs.
• Kākāriki (Red-crowned Parakeet): Keep an eye on the high canopy for a flash of bright green and a cheerful, chattering call.
• Whitehead (Pōpokotea): Small, busy songbirds that move through the forest canopy in social flocks.
• North Island Brown Kiwi: While they are nocturnal and incredibly rare to see during the day, this reserve is home to a thriving, reintroduced kiwi population. If you hike early in the morning or near dusk, you might just hear their sharp, piercing calls echoing through the bush.

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Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Best Seasons: The Te Whara Track can be hiked in Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. Summer offers the best chance of clear skies and dry tracks, but the heat can be intense. Spring and Autumn provide cooler walking temperatures, while Winter brings crisp, clear air—just be prepared for muddier, slicker track conditions underfoot.
• Best Time to Start: Start early in the morning. This allows you to tackle the steepest climbs before the heat of the day sets in and gives you plenty of daylight hours to complete the walk safely.
• What to Wear and Pack: High-traction hiking boots are essential here due to the steep clay sections and exposed tree roots. Pack plenty of high-energy food, a windbreaker (the ridgelines are highly exposed to coastal winds), and at least 2 litres of water, as there are no drinking water sources along the ridge.
• Weather and Safety: Check the weather forecast before you go. Strong winds and heavy rain can make the exposed rocky sections treacherous. Always watch your step near the steep drop-offs, and stay on the marked track, which is indicated by orange DOC markers.

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Local & Regional Context

To walk the Te Whara Track is to walk through history. The entire Bream Head (Te Whara) area is considered wahi tapu (sacred land) by local Māori. According to oral tradition, the track follows the ancestral footsteps of Manaia, a great chief. The prominent stone peaks along the ridge represent the petrified figures of Manaia, his wife, and his children, frozen in stone following a legendary dispute.

The reserve's rugged topography is the result of massive volcanic activity that occurred around 20 million years ago. Today, thanks to the tireless predator-control efforts of the Bream Head Conservation Trust and local volunteers, the forest is undergoing a magnificent ecological renaissance, restoring the headland to its primeval glory.

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After the Walk

After 5.5 hours of scaling volcanic peaks, you will have worked up a massive appetite. Head back down the road toward Parua Bay to refuel:

• Parua Bay Tavern (9.5km away): This iconic, waterfront Kiwi pub is the ultimate place to celebrate your achievement. Sit out on the lawn right on the edge of the Whangārei Harbour and tuck into classic pub fare, pizzas, or a hearty burger while enjoying panoramic water views.
• Smith & Local Parua Bay (9.8km away): If you finish your hike earlier in the day, head to this beloved local cafe. It is famous for its exceptional coffee, fresh cabinet treats (do not skip their legendary cinnamon rolls), and a relaxed, community-focused vibe.
• New Day Cafe & Indian Restaurant (9.9km away): For something warm and incredibly comforting, stop here to enjoy authentic Indian curries, fresh naan, and rice dishes. It is a fantastic spot for a sit-down meal or a quick takeaway to enjoy back at your accommodation.

9.8km away

A beloved local cafe and pizzeria known for its quality coffee, delicious homemade treats like cinnamon rolls, and a menu blending café classics with international touches. It’s a community hub with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.