Last updated July 2026
Mount Aubrey Reserve rises above McLeod Bay and Reotahi at the Whangārei Heads, providing panoramic views across Whangārei Harbour to Marsden Point, the old oil refinery, Mount Manaia, and the Pacific coastline. The steep ridge track climbs through native bush and volcanic rock formations with many steps to a trig point and 360-degree outlook. It connects directly with the easy Reotahi Coastal Walkway, which follows the shoreline past the Reotahi Marine Reserve and historic freezing works remains. Both tracks are managed by Whangārei District Council, are free to access, and prohibit dogs.
Practical Information
| Location | Reotahi and McLeod Bay, Whangārei Heads (approx. 30 km from Whangārei city centre) |
| Access | Tiller Park car park off Reotahi Road; Stuart Road (McLeod Bay); Beach Road car park (Reotahi); Bay View Road (Little Munro Bay) |
| Mount Aubrey track | 1.5 km one way, Grade 3, 1 hour one way |
| Reotahi Coastal Walkway | 2.8 km one way (McLeod Bay to Reotahi), Grade 2, 1.5 hours one way |
| Combined loop | Approximately 3.5–4 hours |
| Difficulty | Mount Aubrey: steep with many steps; Coastal: easy with some steps |
| Entry | Free |
| Dogs | Not permitted on either track |
| Managed by | Whangārei District Council |
About Mount Aubrey Reserve
Mount Aubrey is a steep, bush-clad ridge and scenic reserve rising above McLeod Bay. It forms part of the remains of an ancient chain of volcanoes that includes nearby Mount Manaia. The track starts from Tiller Park and climbs through native bush with a large number of steps before reaching the ridge and a minor detour to the trig point on the rock dome.
The summit delivers 360-degree panoramic views taking in the whole of Whangārei Harbour, Marsden Point port and the old oil refinery, Pātaua and the Pacific coastline to the east, and Mount Manaia and the Whangārei Heads to the south. The track is well maintained and signposted, mostly metalled except along the grassy ridge section.
The southern end of the Mount Aubrey track connects with the Reotahi Coastal Walkway near Little Munro Bay, allowing walkers to create longer routes. Good footwear is recommended, and the track can be slippery when wet. Caution is advised near the trig point as there are no handrails.
Reotahi Coastal Walkway
The Reotahi Coastal Walkway is an easy Grade 2 track that follows a stunning stretch of coastline within Whangārei Harbour. It skirts the Reotahi Marine Reserve (named after Motukaroko Island) and passes the remains of a historic meat processing plant (freezing works that operated 1910–1921) with views across to Marsden Point port and the oil refinery.
The walkway features magnificent pōhutukawa trees, sections through dense forest, and a variety of coastal environments. It can be walked in shorter sections or combined with the Mount Aubrey track for a circular route. Access points include Stuart Road in McLeod Bay, the Beach Road car park (with toilets and picnic tables), and Bay View Road at Little Munro Bay.
Combining the Tracks for a Loop
The two tracks connect near Little Munro Bay, enabling a natural loop that most walkers complete by starting on the coastal section then ascending Mount Aubrey before returning. Allow 3.5–4 hours for the full outing. Parking is available at multiple points along the route, and toilets are located at the Beach Road car park.
What Visitors Often Say
The views from the summit are outstanding, with sweeping harbour and port panoramas that make the steep climb worthwhile. The coastal walkway offers a pleasant contrast with easy shoreline walking, pōhutukawa trees, and historic sites. Many recommend combining both for a rewarding half-day outing and advise wearing sturdy shoes for the steps on Mount Aubrey.
Where to Learn More
Whangārei District Council – Mount Aubrey: official details on access, track description, grades, and parking.
Whangārei District Council – Reotahi walkway: official information on the coastal track, distances, grades, and connection to Mount Aubrey.
Whangārei District Council – Mount Aubrey Reotahi map (PDF): downloadable map showing both tracks, parking, and facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Mount Aubrey track?
1.5 km one way from Reotahi Road (Tiller Park) to Little Munro Bay, taking about 1 hour one way. It is graded 3 due to the steep climb and many steps.
How long is the Reotahi Coastal Walkway?
2.8 km one way from McLeod Bay to Reotahi, taking about 1.5 hours one way. It is graded 2 and suitable for most walkers.
Can the tracks be combined?
Yes. The tracks connect near Little Munro Bay, creating a loop of approximately 3.5–4 hours. Most people walk the coastal section first then ascend Mount Aubrey.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Dogs are prohibited on both the Mount Aubrey track and the Reotahi Coastal Walkway.
Is there parking?
Yes. Dedicated parking is available at Tiller Park, Stuart Road (McLeod Bay), Beach Road car park (Reotahi, with toilets), and Bay View Road (Little Munro Bay).
What views can I expect from Mount Aubrey?
360-degree panoramas include Whangārei Harbour, Marsden Point port, the old oil refinery, Mount Manaia, Pātaua, and the Pacific coastline on clear days.
Are there any facilities?
Toilets and picnic tables are available at the Beach Road car park on the Reotahi Coastal Walkway. No facilities are located on the Mount Aubrey track itself.
How far is it from Whangārei city?
Approximately 30 km via Whangārei Heads Road, with a driving time of around 35–40 minutes from central Whangārei.
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