The Waimahanga Walkway follows a former railway route through the Onerahi area, running along the edge of Whangārei Harbour through a stretch of mangrove forest. The track is around 4km one way, all-weather, and suitable for the whole family — cyclists, walkers, and dog owners all use it regularly. The harbour views are good on clear days, and the mangrove section gives the route a character that is quite different from the city’s other shared paths. It connects at the far end to Boswell’s Track, which extends the ride further into the mangroves along the harbour edge.
Practical Information
| Distance | Approximately 4km one way (can be extended via Boswell’s Track) |
| Grade | Easy (Grade 1) |
| Surface | Loose metal (gravel), all-weather |
| Time | 30 minutes to 1 hour one way depending on pace |
| Location | Onerahi, Whangārei |
| Open | Year-round |
| Notes | The section up to George Point Road includes some steeper terrain |
| Dogs | Welcome on leash |
About the Waimahanga Walkway
The walkway follows the alignment of a former railway line that once served the Onerahi area, giving it a generally flat and easy-to-follow corridor through the neighbourhood and along the harbour edge. The surface is loose metal (compacted gravel), which holds up well in all weather conditions and is comfortable for most bikes, including road bikes with slightly wider tyres.
As the track moves further along the harbour, it enters a section of mangrove forest — an unexpected and genuinely interesting environment to move through. The mangroves border the tidal harbour edge, and at low tide you can see the root systems and mudflats clearly. Birdlife is active in this section, particularly wading birds and herons.
Near the George Point Road end, there is a steeper section that is worth knowing about in advance if you are bringing young children on bikes. The rest of the route is flat or gently graded throughout.
Extending the Route
The Waimahanga Walkway connects directly to Boswell’s Track, which continues as an off-road loop through more of the Onerahi mangrove and harbour edge area. Together the two tracks form part of the longer Onerahi to Town Basin coastal route, a 6km off-road connection between the Onerahi suburb and the city’s Hātea Loop walkway. If you have the time, combining all three makes for a satisfying half-day out.
What Visitors Say
“A great walk for the whole family — the mangrove section is really interesting, especially for kids. Flat and easy, and the harbour views are lovely.”
Where to Learn More
Whangarei District Council — Waimahanga Walkway
Official information about the Waimahanga Walkway from the WDC.
Bike Northland — Waimahanga Track
Cycling-specific information about the Waimahanga track, including surface and grade details.
NZ Motor Caravan Association — Waimahanga Walkway
Trail overview and practical information for the Waimahanga Walkway.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Waimahanga Walkway?
The walkway is approximately 4km one way. It connects to Boswell’s Track at the far end, which extends the route further.
Is it suitable for cycling?
Yes — the loose metal surface is all-weather and suitable for most bikes. The route is Grade 1 and mostly flat.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on the Waimahanga Walkway as long as they are on a leash.
Where does the walkway start?
The walkway is located in the Onerahi area of Whangārei. Access points are available from the Onerahi end of the track.
Is there a steep section?
The section near George Point Road includes some steeper terrain. The rest of the route is flat or gently graded.
What wildlife might I see?
The mangrove section is good for birdlife, including wading birds and herons, particularly at low tide.
For more cycling routes in Whangārei, see Cycling Tracks in Whangarei. The Boswell’s Track connects to the far end of this walkway and extends the ride further into the mangroves.