Last updated November 2026
The Pakotai Track is a very short DOC walk to a magnificent mature kauri, off Murray Road in the hill country between Kaikohe and Dargaville. The well-graded track uses stairs as it climbs through mixed podocarp forest to the tree.
DOC grades it easy to intermediate and allows 10 minutes return for the 91 m track. It is a quick stop that pairs well with a drive through the area.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Pakotai Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Murray Road, on the right-hand side heading north from Tangowahine Valley Road
- Distance from the city
- About 42 km from Whangārei
- Walking time
- 10 minutes return
- Track length
- 91 m return via the same track
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Track type
- Walking track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Pakotai Track
This is a very short walk, but the destination is the point. The track is well graded and climbs a set of stairs through mixed podocarp forest.
At the top stands a mature kauri that DOC describes as awe-inspiring. It is worth a pause to take in the size of the trunk and the forest around it.
DOC describes the track as well graded with stairs, and does not list it as wheelchair accessible.
Getting There
From Kaikohe, DOC says to head south on Mangakahia Road for 37 km, turn right onto Opouteke Road and follow it for about 4 km, then turn left onto Murray Road. The track is 1.7 km along Murray Road.
From Dargaville, head northeast on State Highway 14 for 11 km to Tangowahine. Turn left onto Tangowahine Valley Road and follow it for 17.4 km, then turn right onto Murray Road and continue north for 4.5 km. The track starts on the right side of the road.
Protect Kauri
DOC asks every visitor to help stop kauri disease: scrub all soil off shoes and gear, use the cleaning stations, and always stay on the track.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Pakotai Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Kaipara District Council: local roads, parks and reserves in the Kaipara district.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Pakotai Track?
DOC gives 91 m return via the same track and allows 10 minutes return.
What will I see?
A magnificent mature kauri, reached through mixed podocarp forest.
Is it suitable for wheelchairs or buggies?
The track has stairs, and DOC does not list it as wheelchair accessible.
Where does it start?
On Murray Road. DOC gives directions from both Kaikohe and Dargaville.
Are dogs allowed?
No. DOC lists the track as no dogs.
How can I help protect kauri?
Scrub soil off your shoes and gear, use cleaning stations and stay on the track.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.