Last updated November 2026
The Ōpua Kauri Walk is a short DOC walk near Ōpua in the Bay of Islands, partly on boardwalk, through regenerating forest and groves of kauri to an elevated lookout. DOC grades it easy to intermediate and allows 30 minutes return for the 370 m return walk.
The start is on Oromahoe Road, about 4 km from State Highway 11 near the Ōpua township. At the lookout you are surrounded by kauri of many ages, from young rickers to trees around 400 years old.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Opua Kauri Walk on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Oromahoe Road, about 4 km from State Highway 11 near Ōpua
- Distance from the city
- About 50 km from Whangārei
- Walking time
- 30 minutes return
- Track length
- 370 m return via the same track
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate
- Dogs
- Dogs with DOC permit (hunting)
- Track type
- Walking track, partly boardwalk
- 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 Ōpua Kauri Walk
DOC calls this a short but delightful stroll. Part of the track is boardwalk, leading through groves of kauri to an elevated lookout platform with a bench seat.
From the lookout you look over a valley that is home to kauri trees. DOC notes trees of very different ages here, from young rickers up to 25 years old to mature trees of about 400 years.
Making It Longer
DOC suggests a longer option of about two more hours. Return to Oromahoe Road, turn right towards State Highway 11 for 800 m and take the Oromahoe Traverse, which leads eventually to School Road in Paihia and joins the Paihia School Road Track on the way.
From the Paihia School Road Track, DOC describes views to Waitangi, across Motumairie to Russell, and over the Russell Peninsula to Cape Brett and the eastern Bay of Islands.
Before You Go
DOC advises carrying warm, waterproof clothing, food and drink, even on short walks, and wearing stout shoes or walking boots. Check DOC before you go.
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: Ōpua Kauri Walk: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Far North District Council: local roads, parks and reserves in the Far North district.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Ōpua Kauri Walk?
DOC gives 370 m return via the same track and allows 30 minutes return.
Where does it start?
On Oromahoe Road, about 4 km from State Highway 11 near the Ōpua township.
What will I see?
Groves of kauri, from young rickers to trees around 400 years old, viewed from an elevated lookout.
Is there a boardwalk?
Yes. DOC says part of the walk is on boardwalk.
Can I take my dog?
The DOC rule is dogs with a DOC permit (hunting) only.
Can I walk further?
Yes. The Oromahoe Traverse, about two more hours, leads towards School Road in Paihia.
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.