Whangārei’s shared paths network is a series of off-road cycling and walking routes connecting the city’s main suburbs to the central business district and beyond. Built progressively since the mid-2010s with funding from the NZ Transport Agency’s Urban Cycleways Programme, the network gives residents a safe, sealed alternative to riding on-road. Three core routes are now complete — the Kamo, Onerahi, and Raumanga shared paths — forming a connected spine through the city that carries over 600 people on a busy day. The surface is smooth concrete throughout, wide enough for bikes, prams, scooters and wheelchairs, making these routes genuinely useful for everyday trips rather than recreation alone.
Route Overview
| Route | Length | Key connection |
|---|---|---|
| Kamo Shared Path | 6.5 km | Kamo to Whangārei CBD via former rail corridor |
| Onerahi Shared Path | 6 km | Onerahi to Raumanga, links to Hātea Loop |
| Raumanga link | Varies | Connects Onerahi and Kamo paths through Raumanga |
| Surface | All routes | Smooth concrete, suitable for all wheel types |
| Cost | Free | All routes publicly accessible |
About the Network
The shared paths follow existing railway corridors and road margins through the city, converted into sealed, off-road routes wide enough for cyclists and pedestrians to travel together. Surfaces are designed for bikes of all types — including adaptive bikes, scooters, prams and wheelchairs — with the aim of making the network genuinely accessible rather than catering only to experienced riders.
The Kamo Shared Path is the longest and most heavily used of the three routes. Running 6.5 kilometres north to south, it follows the former rail corridor from Kamo into the CBD, passing close to most of Whangārei’s schools and linking into destinations such as Kensington Park and the AUT Whangārei campus. On a typical weekday more than 600 people use this route, making it the busiest off-road path in Northland.
The Onerahi Shared Path runs for 6 kilometres along the western edge of Whangārei Harbour, passing through sections of mangrove forest before connecting into the Hātea Loop Walkway at the southern end. The connection to the Hātea Loop means you can travel off-road from Onerahi all the way to the Town Basin and beyond.
The Raumanga link bridges the two main routes through the middle suburbs, creating a continuous north–south corridor through the city. Together the three paths form a network that makes it possible to travel across much of Whangārei without touching a road.
Beyond the Shared Paths
The shared paths connect into Whangārei’s broader recreational trail network. The Hātea Loop Walkway extends the off-road reach east toward Whangārei Falls and Mair Park. The Pohe Island Bike Park sits off the network on the harbour, accessible from the CBD by a short on-road connection — it adds pump tracks, a circuit track and a skills zone for riders who want to develop technique or just have fun.
Where to Learn More
Route maps, network overview and details on each completed path.
wdc.govt.nz
Background on the government funding programme behind the network build-out.
nzta.govt.nz
Rider-focused guide to all routes in the network with practical tips.
bikenorthland.co.nz
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do the shared paths start and finish?
The Kamo Shared Path starts near Kamo Road in the north and ends at the CBD. The Onerahi path starts at Waimahanga Road, Onerahi and runs to Raumanga. The Raumanga link connects the two routes through the middle of the city.
Are the paths suitable for e-bikes?
Yes. The smooth concrete surface and gentle grades make all three routes comfortable on e-bikes.
Are the paths lit at night?
Lighting varies by section. Some urban segments have street lighting; others are best ridden during daylight.
Can I take a dog on the shared paths?
Dogs are generally permitted on leash. Check Whangarei District Council’s current bylaws for any restrictions on specific sections.
Is the network off-road throughout?
Largely yes, though short road crossings exist where paths intersect with streets. The main routes are designed to avoid shared traffic lanes.
Are there plans to extend the network?
Yes. Whangarei District Council and NZTA have signalled further expansion as additional funding is secured.
See all routes on the Cycling Tracks in Whangārei hub, or read about the Kamo Shared Path and the Onerahi Shared Path individually.
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