Wairoa Riverside Walkway

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

What makes this trail truly special is the blend of human history and raw natural beauty. Here are the features you absolutely shouldn't miss:

• The Portland Island Lighthouse: Start your walk by admiring this white-towered beauty. It’s a fantastic photo op and serves as a reminder of the region’s maritime heritage.
• Pilot’s Hill: This is the undisputed crown jewel of the walkway. As you ascend this lookout point, the views open up in a spectacular 360-degree panorama. On a clear day, you can look north-east toward the rugged cliffs of the Māhia Peninsula and south toward the distant silhouette of Cape Kidnappers. It’s the best place to truly appreciate the scale of the Wairoa River as it snakes toward the sea.
• Historic Plaques: Keep an eye out for the numerous information plaques dotted along the route. They narrate the rich Māori history of the area. Long before European settlers arrived, this riverbank was a hive of activity and home to many iwi. These stories add a layer of depth to your walk that you won't find on more remote backcountry trails.
• Whakamahia Beach Scenic Reserve: The trail culminates at this unique beach. Unlike the golden sands of the north, Whakamahia is famous for its distinctive black sand and massive piles of silvered driftwood. It feels wild, untamed, and quintessentially East Coast.
• The Lagoon: Right next to the beach is a tranquil lagoon. It is a designated nature reserve and serves as a quiet sanctuary compared to the roaring surf just a few metres away.

Getting There

Finding the start of the Wairoa Riverside Walkway is incredibly straightforward. If you are in the Wairoa CBD, just head toward the river!

• Portland Island Lighthouse: There is plenty of car parking available right at the start of the walkway near the lighthouse on Marine Parade. This is the most popular starting point.
• Falcon’s Lookout Playground & Skatepark: If you are bringing the kids, this is a great alternative. Located on Marine Parade, it offers dedicated parking and lets the kids burn off some energy on the playground before or after the walk.

Because the trail is an out-and-back, you can also park at the Whakamahia Beach end if you prefer to do the walk in reverse, starting with the wild coast and ending with a coffee in town.

Wildlife Spotting

For the birdwatchers (ornithologists) among us, the Wairoa River and the Whakamahia Lagoon are absolute havens. The mix of river, estuarine, and coastal environments means you can spot a huge variety of species in a single afternoon.

Common sights year-round include the Silver Gull, the White-faced Heron (usually seen stalking the shallows with incredible patience), and the Pied Stilt with its distinctive long pink legs. In the lagoon area, you’ll almost certainly see Mallards paddling about.

If you are visiting during the autumn or winter, keep an eye out for the South Island Oystercatcher. During the warmer spring and summer months, you might be lucky enough to spot the Banded Dotterel.

The real "prize" sightings, however, are the Royal Spoonbill—a rare but majestic visitor with its unique spatula-shaped bill—and the Bar-tailed Godwit. The Godwits are legendary travellers, flying all the way from Alaska to spend their summer in New Zealand. They are usually seen on the mudflats between spring and autumn.

Pro Tip: Bring a pair of binoculars and head to the lagoon at low tide. This is when the wading birds are most active as they forage in the exposed mud.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring: The birdlife is at its peak, and the fresh growth along the riverbanks makes everything look vibrant and green.
• Summer: Perfect for a morning walk before the heat of the day kicks in. The coastal breeze at Whakamahia Beach is incredibly refreshing.
• Autumn: The light in Wairoa during autumn is golden and soft, making it the best time for photography, especially from Pilot’s Hill.
• Winter: Crisp, clear days offer the best visibility for looking out toward Māhia and Cape Kidnappers.

• Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the coastal sun is fierce. Wear a hat and pack some sunscreen.
• Hydration: There aren't many water fountains along the 7.7km stretch, so carry a full bottle.
• Footwear: While the path is easy, it is long. Comfortable walking shoes or even sturdy sneakers are fine. No need for heavy hiking boots here!
• Windbreaker: The Wairoa coast is known for its exposure. A light windbreaker will keep you comfortable if the sea breeze picks up.

Timing: If you can, aim to be at Pilot's Hill for either sunrise or sunset. The way the light hits the river and the black sands of the beach is nothing short of magical.

Local & Regional Context

Wairoa is a place where history runs deep. The name Te Araroa o Te Wairoa translates to "The Long Path of Wairoa," and it serves as a physical connection between the town's colonial past and its ancient Māori roots.

Before European arrival, the Wairoa River was a vital highway for Māori, providing food and transport. The area was densely populated, and the walkway passes several sites of former pā (fortified villages). The information plaques along the way are a fantastic resource for understanding the significance of the river to the local iwi, Ngāti Kahungunu.

The movement of the lighthouse to the riverbank is another point of local pride. It represents the town's connection to the sea and its resilience. By walking this path, you aren't just getting exercise; you are participating in the "vibrant community life" that makes Wairoa so unique.

Note: Please be aware that this walkway is not dog-friendly. To protect the nesting birds in the lagoon and the sensitive wildlife in the scenic reserve, please leave your furry friends at home.

After the Walk

One of the best parts of any walk is the "refuel" session afterwards, and Wairoa has some legendary spots to choose from.

• Osler’s Bakery: You cannot visit Wairoa without going to Osler's. It is a local institution located just 100 metres from the lighthouse. They are famous across the North Island for their award-winning pies. Grab a steak and cheese or a cream doughnut—you’ve earned the calories!
• Eastend Cafe: If you prefer a sit-down brunch vibe, head to the east end of Marine Parade. They serve fantastic Havana organic coffee and have plenty of gluten-free and vegan options. It’s a very friendly, vibrant spot to relax.
• Gemmell’s Cafe Restaurant & Bar: For something a bit more substantial, Gemmell’s offers a great range of locally sourced cuisine. It’s a lovely spot for a long lunch overlooking the river you just walked beside.
• Wairoa Pizzas: If you finish your walk later in the day, check out Wairoa Pizzas for some Indian-inspired toppings. Their flavours are bold and the portions are generous—perfect for a post-hike hunger.

The Wairoa Riverside Walkway offers a sense of peace and a connection to the land that is hard to find elsewhere. It is a gentle reminder that sometimes the best adventures aren't the ones that climb the highest mountains, but the ones that follow the river home.

Pied Stilt

Best time: Year-round

200m away

A cafe, restaurant, and bar on Marine Parade, known for its diverse menu featuring home-grown cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.