Is the Parua Bay camping area flat or sloped?
The LookoutCity guide
It's flat. The reserve is a large flat grassy area beside the bay, so parking is easy and level.
Whangārei Questions
Whangārei people helping Whangārei people. Ask about any place, or answer one for a local.
Which place is it about?
Can't see it?
Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
Is it sheltered if the wind picks up, or does it get exposed on the flat?
Are there any steep hills on the Kamo Shared Path?
The LookoutCity guide
No, it's an easy ride. Heading north is a smooth, easy uphill climb, and heading south is a gentle downhill cruise.
Where do you park at the Farmer Street end, and is it easy to find a spot?
Are there toilets at Parihaka MTB Park?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there's a toilet block near the summit of Memorial Drive, opposite the gate into the park. It's handy if you're riding up from the CBD.
Has anyone ridden an e-bike here? How does it go on the White Tail climb?
Does the Onerahi shared path go to the shops or the airport?
The LookoutCity guide
No. The path doesn't give direct access to Whangārei Airport or the main Onerahi shops, and it stops short of the top of the hill on Onerahi Road. The roads up there are quiet but steep.
Is there anywhere along the path to fill up a water bottle?
Are there toilets at Pohe Island Bike Park?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the park. There are also drinking fountains and a bike repair stand with tools.
How busy does the pump track get after school and on weekends?
Can I come back the next day on the same ticket if I run out of time?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, admission is valid for two consecutive days, so you can return the next day. It covers the guided tour, the cultural experience, all heritage buildings, the waka and both museums.
How big are the guided tour groups, and is there a wait for the next one?
Is there an accessible toilet at Matapouri Beach?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes. The Wehiwehi Road toilets at Matapouri are now a five-bay block that includes an accessible toilet, replacing the old two-bay block.
Is there much natural shade on the beach in the afternoon?
Is it safe to walk the road between Haruru Falls and Paihia?
The LookoutCity guide
No. The road from Haruru Falls to Paihia and Waitangi has no footpath and isn't safe for pedestrians.
How long does the walk from the car park to the viewing platform actually take?
How many vehicles fit at Marsden Bay Reserve freedom camping?
The LookoutCity guide
Around 8 to 10 vehicles fit at Marsden Bay Reserve, so it can fill up. The maximum stay is one night.
Are the toilets at Marsden Bay Reserve open overnight?
Can I bring my dog to Whangārei Falls?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash at Whangārei Falls. They are not allowed in the main reserve of A H Reed Memorial Park, so keep that in mind if you walk across to it.
How level are the four marked spaces for sleeping in a van?
Are campfires allowed at Uretiti campsite?
The LookoutCity guide
No, open fires and fireworks are not allowed at the campground. You can cook on gas or use an enclosed BBQ-style cooker with its supplied fuel.
Does your campervan need to be self-contained at Uretiti, or do people use tents and non-contained vans?
What's the maximum stay at Onerahi Beach Road Reserve?
The LookoutCity guide
One night is the limit at Beach Road reserve in Onerahi, and it is for certified self-contained vehicles only. There's room for around four vehicles.
Does it feel safe to stay the night at the Beach Road reserve in Onerahi?
Can I walk from the art museum to the Hundertwasser Art Centre?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the Hundertwasser Art Centre is a short walk from the museum within the Town Basin. The marina and Clapham's National Clock Museum are also close by.
Is it worth taking kids here, or is it more for adults?
What exhibition is on at Hihiaua at the moment?
The LookoutCity guide
Kotahitanga, a Puanga ki Hihiaua 2026 group exhibition with Aroha Gossage, Leigh Tawharu, Dot Waetford, Sage & Stone and more. It runs 20 June to 20 July 2026.
Do kids get much out of a visit, or is it mostly for adults?
Can I stay overnight in my campervan at Kiwi North?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, if you're an NZMCA member. It's $25 per van per night, and you book through reception on (09) 438 9630.
Is the heritage park okay for a wheelchair or pram, or is it hilly and rough underfoot?
Does Clapham's Clock Museum have an annual pass, and what does it cost?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there's an annual pass at $25 for an adult and $50 for a family. It's worth it if you plan to come back, since general entry is charged per visit.
Are there toilets inside the museum, or do you have to use the Town Basin ones?
How long should I allow for a visit to the Hundertwasser Art Centre?
The LookoutCity guide
Allow at least an hour and a half to see the Hundertwasser exhibition, the Wairau Māori Art Gallery and the roof. Your ticket is valid all day, so you can take longer.
Does the roof stay open in the rain, or is it better saved for a dry day?
Are the walks at Laurie Hall Park paved, and is there shade?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the walks are paved, and there are shaded areas plus benches, seating and picnic tables around the park.
Is the playground at Laurie Hall Park fenced?
Is the Mair Park playground shaded, or will kids be in full sun?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the playground is a shaded spot for families. It sits in the main facilities area beside the river, close to the BBQ areas, picnic tables and toilets.
Is the playground fenced off from the river, or is it open?
Are there picnic tables or seating at Cafler Park?
The LookoutCity guide
There is seating and picnic furniture in the park, and the mature trees give shaded spots for a picnic.
Is it easy to get a pram around the paths at Cafler Park, or are there steps?
Can I walk from AH Reed Kauri Park through to Whangārei Falls right now?
The LookoutCity guide
No. The Hātea walkway swing bridge between the park and Whangārei Falls is closed after a failed safety inspection, and it is being replaced. The park itself is also closed for kauri protection.
Does the car park fill up at weekends, or is it easy to find a spot?
Is there a phone number for the Native Bird Recovery Centre?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, you can call the centre on 09 438 1457.
Are there information panels by the aviaries, or do you rely on the volunteers to explain things?
Are there picnic tables or a BBQ at Whangārei Falls?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the reserve has picnic tables and a BBQ, and there are toilets too.
Does the Boundary Road car park fill up on sunny weekends?
Is there much shade at Mander Park on a hot day?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the mature trees, including large oaks, give dense shade over the grassed areas, so it stays comfortable in warmer months.
Is it easy to find a park close to Mander Park on a weekday?
Are there toilets and drinking fountains at Kensington Park?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, Kensington Park has both toilets and drinking fountains.
Is the Kensington Park playground fenced, or is it open to Kensington Avenue?
Are there toilets at the Quarry Gardens?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at Whangārei Quarry Gardens.
Is there much shade in the gardens on a hot afternoon?
How much extra time does the pā site detour off the Selwyn Avenue track add?
The LookoutCity guide
The pā site detour adds about 10 minutes. It branches off the Selwyn Avenue track roughly 300 metres up from the Quarry Arts Centre end.
Is the Frank Holman track shady enough for a hot summer afternoon?
Is there any shade at the Pohe Island playground?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are shaded areas at the playground, along with park benches and seating if you need a break from the sun.
Is the playground fenced, given how close the river is?
Can I kayak at Waikaraka in the marine reserve?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, kayak at Waikaraka at high tide. Around Motukaroro there are strong tidal currents and back eddies, so it suits experienced people better.
Are dogs okay at Waikaraka or Motukaroro? Has anyone taken theirs along?
How hard is the Waro walk, and is it flat?
The LookoutCity guide
It's graded easy to intermediate, so expect a bit more than a stroll. The main track is about 1 km and takes around 20 minutes.
Are there any toilets at the reserve, or is it best to stop in Hikurangi first?
What is the track surface like on the Mount Manaia walk?
The LookoutCity guide
It's a mix of wide gravel path and wooden steps. Expect about 324 m of elevation change over the walk, so wear sturdy shoes.
Are there toilets at the car park before you start the walk?
How long should I allow for a visit to Botanica?
The LookoutCity guide
Allow under an hour. The whole complex is compact, so you can see the conservatories and gardens in that time.
Are there any picnic tables or benches at Botanica where you can sit and eat?
Is there a car park and a picnic spot at Waikaraka Reserve?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there's a car park and a grassed picnic area at Waikaraka Reserve, off Whangarei Heads Road.
Is there any shade near the car park if you want to sit and watch the birds for a while?
Who got the Whangārei Harbour marine reserve set up?
The LookoutCity guide
Kamo High School students did. They used their own research, funds and community consultation, and the process took 16 years, from 1990 to 2006.
Is there any shade at the beach by the Reotahi car park for a break between snorkels?
Can I push a pram along the Hātea Loop from the Town Basin playground?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes. The Hātea Loop is accessible for prams, mobility aids, bikes and scooters, and it runs past the Town Basin Playground. It's a surfaced path all the way round.
Are there picnic tables near the playground, or do most people sit on the grass?
Are there picnic tables near Reotahi Beach?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the public car park at the end of Beach Road has picnic tables and toilets. It sits up a steep rise from the marine reserve, so expect a short climb back up.
Is there a pontoon or a decent spot to jump in off at Reotahi?
Can I walk to Whale Bay from Matapōuri Beach instead of the car park?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes. The Matapōuri Headland Track starts at the northern end of Matapōuri Beach as well as at the Whale Bay car park. It's 1.1 km and about 40 minutes one way.
Is there much shade on the sand in the afternoon, or is it mostly full sun?
What's the address and phone number for Kamo Library in Whangārei?
The LookoutCity guide
Kamo Library is at 583 Kamo Road, Te Kamo, Whangārei. The phone number is 09 430 4206, which is the Whangārei District Libraries line.
Is there a quiet spot to sit and study, or is it mostly just shelves?
What is there for kids to play on at Kamo Sports Park?
The LookoutCity guide
The playground has climbing structures, swings and a seesaw, mostly suited to younger children. Wide, flat open grounds around it give extra room for running and games.
Is the playground fenced at all, or open to the carpark and fields?
Is there a quiet spot to study at Tikipunga Library?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the library has a quiet space for reading and study, alongside internet access, printing and copying.
How busy does it get during the Tuesday preschool session?
Can I print or scan documents at Whangārei Central Library?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, you can print, photocopy and scan there, and laminating is offered too. The 3D printing service is no longer available.
Are the study areas quiet enough for focused work, and do they fill up after school?
Is there more than one car park or way onto Ocean Beach?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are two car parks and two access points to the beach, and public toilets are available.
How busy does the car park get on a hot summer weekend?
Is the water at Pataua South tested for swimming safety?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, swimming water quality is monitored. Check live conditions on Safeswim, and previous results are on the LAWA website.
Is there any natural shade on the estuary beach in the afternoon?
Is there free parking near Onerahi Library?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there is free car parking nearby, so you shouldn't need to pay to park when you visit the library on Onerahi Road.
Is there a kids' area at Onerahi Library, and is it big enough for a few little ones?
How long is the walk up to the Whangaumu lookout?
The LookoutCity guide
It's about 10 minutes one way and only 125 metres. It's a short grade 2 walk, and the track is signposted at the end of the road.
Are there any picnic tables near the beach or under the pines, or should we bring our own seating?
Can I take my dog on the Smugglers Bay Loop Track?
The LookoutCity guide
No, dogs aren't allowed on the Smugglers Bay Loop Track, which starts from the Urquharts Bay car park.
Is the water shallow enough for little kids to paddle at Urquharts Bay?
Can I take my dog on the Pataua Island Track?
The LookoutCity guide
No, dogs aren't allowed on the Pataua Island Track.
Is there any natural shade on the estuary side of Pataua North in the afternoon?
Will I come across cattle on the Smugglers Bay track?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the area is grazed, so you may meet cattle on or near the track. Move calmly, give them plenty of space, and don't run or make sudden movements.
Is there any shade on the beach, or is it full sun in the afternoon?
Are there toilets and changing rooms at Ruakākā Beach near the surf club?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the surf club end of Ruakākā Beach has toilets and changing facilities, plus a picnic area and car parking.
How full does the freedom camping area get in summer, and what time should you arrive?
Is there parking at McLeod Bay?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there is car parking at the Stuart Road end of the bay, by the community hall. That is also where the walkway toward Reotahi starts.
Is there much shade on the beach in the afternoon, or is it best to bring your own?
Are there toilets at Onerahi Foreshore beach?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there's a toilet block by the playground on Beach Road, and it includes wheelchair accessible toilets.
Is there much shade on the beach or reserve in the afternoon?
Is the Portland Track a loop walk?
The LookoutCity guide
No, you can't make a circular walk here, so you walk to the rocky point and back the same way. There's an extra walk marked off nearby McGill Road, courtesy of Golden Bay Cement.
Does the track get muddy or smelly at high tide, and are the sandflies bad?
Are there toilets and changing rooms at Waipu Cove beach?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are toilets and changing facilities at Waipu Cove. There is also a picnic area, a BBQ area and car parking.
Is the water at Waipu Cove gentle enough for little kids to paddle in?
Are there public toilets at the Ngunguru estuary swimming spot?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the Ngunguru Estuary swimming spot by the school. There is also a picnic area, car parking, and food and drinks nearby.
How easy is it to find parking near the beach on a summer weekend?
How do I find the turnoff to the lighthouse walk, and is it a public road?
The LookoutCity guide
Turn off Matapouri Road about 400 m past the Oceans Resort Hotel, where the right of way is signposted. It's Landowners Lane, a private road, so the public only has right of passage.
Is there much shade on the walk or is it pretty exposed on a sunny afternoon?
Can I take a pram or mobility scooter around the Hātea Loop?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the Hātea Loop is fully accessible for prams and mobility aids. Walkers, joggers, bikes and scooters all use it too.
Is the Hātea Loop okay for young kids learning to ride, or does it get too busy?
Is there a toilet at Peach Cove?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there's a long-drop toilet a short walk from Peach Cove Hut, which sits above the beach.
Is there enough room to park just inside the entrance on a sunny weekend?
Is the cliff edge on the Huitau Pā walk safe?
The LookoutCity guide
Stay well away from the edge, because the cliff is eroding badly. The track runs along the cliff top for about 300 metres, so take extra care there.
Are there any toilets at the car park or nearby at Taiharuru?
How steep are the Mount Parihaka tracks and what fitness do I need?
The LookoutCity guide
The tracks are metal surfaced and steep in places, with a lot of steps. You need moderate fitness and good footwear.
Are there toilets at Mair Park or the other track starts?
Is the George Point Road Link steep, and does it have steps?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the George Point Road Link is fairly steep with numerous steps. There's a bench at the top where you can rest and take in the views over the harbour.
Are there any toilets near the Waimahanga Road car park or along the track?
Are there toilets on the Te Whara Track?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, at Ocean Beach carpark, Urquharts Bay carpark and Peach Cove Hut. There are none on the track between them, so plan ahead.
Is it hard to find a park at Ocean Beach carpark on weekends?
Are there any hazards on the Abbey Caves walk, like livestock or electric fencing?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there is marked electric fencing, large rocks in places and seasonal livestock grazing. The entrance has a steep wooden stile and steps, and grass paths get muddy and slippery after rain.
How much shade is there on the loop on a hot afternoon?
Where is the Multicultural Whangārei office?
The LookoutCity guide
It's on Level 1 at 37 Bank Street, in the Civic Arcade, Whangārei. You can call them on 09 430 0571.
Is there a lift or step-free way up to the Level 1 office in the Civic Arcade?
Can I take a bike on the Pukenui Forest tracks?
The LookoutCity guide
No, bikes aren't allowed on the Pukenui Forest tracks. Dogs, camping and fires are banned too.
How muddy does the Pukenui loop get after a few days of rain?
Is the walk to the Bougainville memorial steep or slippery?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are some steep sections with slippery pine needles on the 760 m walk to the monument, so step carefully.
Are there any toilets near the footbridge or along the walkway? Worth going before we set off?
Can I take my dog to Piroa Falls?
The LookoutCity guide
No, not for a normal visit. Dogs are only allowed with a permit for recreational hunting or management purposes.
Are there any toilets at the car park or near the falls?
Is there a carpark for people with limited mobility at AH Reed Kauri Park?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the middle carpark is for visitors with mobility restrictions. It is 300m past the main lower carpark on Whareora Road, on the left. The park and its carparks are currently closed for kauri protection.
Does Paranui Falls still flow well in a dry spell, or is it only worth going after rain?
Is there a drinking fountain at Raumanga Scenic Reserve?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there is a drinking fountain near the playground, close to the toilets. Shade structures and picnic tables are there too.
Is the waterfall still worth seeing in a dry spell, or does it drop to a trickle?
Do I need to clean my boots on the Tāheke Falls walk because of kauri?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, scrub all soil off your shoes and gear and use the cleaning stations to protect the kauri. Stay on the track the whole way.
Has anyone taken a dog around the Tāheke loop? Not sure if they're allowed.
Is there parking and a toilet near the Waipū skatepark?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there's parking on-site at Waihoihoi River Park, and public toilets are nearby. The park is in central Waipū, an easy walk from town.
Are there any lights at the skatepark for after dark?
Is there anywhere to sit or get shade at Pohe Island Skatepark?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there is seating and shade around the edges of the skatepark, so family and friends can watch comfortably while the riders skate.
Is there a drinking fountain or tap near the skatepark, or should I bring my own water?
Is Sherwood Park Skatepark likely to get more features added later?
The LookoutCity guide
It could. The skatepark was designed so extra features can be added in future, so the layout isn't necessarily final.
Is there much shade at the skatepark in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
Is there a boat ramp at Ngunguru?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the boat ramp is on Ngunguru Road on the estuary shore, in the village.
Is the shore by Ngunguru Road okay for a wheelchair, or is it rough getting down to the water?
Can I swim or launch a boat at Whau Valley Reservoir?
The LookoutCity guide
No. Swimming and boating are not allowed at Whau Valley Dam because of the drowning risk. Fishing from the shore is fine with a licence.
Are there any toilets at the Whau Valley car park, or is it best to go before you come?
How long is the walk from Matapōuri beach over to Whale Bay?
The LookoutCity guide
The Matapōuri Headland Track is 1.1 km and takes about 40 minutes one way. You can start from the north end of the beach or from the Whale Bay carpark.
How busy do the rocks get with anglers on a summer weekend, and is it hard to find a spot?
Is there a boat ramp at Pātaua North?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there's a concrete ramp on the estuary at Pātaua North. It suits small boats only, as the bar is narrow and shallow.
Can you bring a dog along when fishing at Pātaua North Beach?
Are the rocks at Smugglers Bay safe for kids to fish near?
The LookoutCity guide
Keep children well supervised near the rock edges. The rocky outcrops here have steep drop-offs, so pick a ledge with a clear way back to the sand.
How full does the Urquharts Bay car park get on summer weekends?
Are there toilets at Taurikura Bay?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the beach, along with changing facilities, a picnic area and car parking. There is also a playground nearby.
Is it easy to find a park close to the beach on a hot weekend?
Is the Motukiore Island walk a good one for families?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, it's a pleasant, easy walk that suits families, especially in summer. Cross the sandspit only within 2 hours either side of low tide, and expect wet feet in the mangroves.
Has anyone managed the shoreline track with a pram, or is it too rough?
Is there parking close to the water at Lake Taharoa?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there is car parking at the Pump House swimming spot. Toilets and a picnic area are there too, and there's a playground nearby.
Are there any changing rooms by the lake, or do you get changed in the car?
Is there any shade at Tamaterau Bay?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes. The coastal walkway runs under the canopy of mature pōhutukawa, and the reserve there has shaded areas, so you can get out of the sun.
Are there picnic tables at the reserve, or should you bring your own seats?
Are there wasps on the Otaika Valley Walkway?
The LookoutCity guide
They can be. Wasps and wasp nests may be present in the area, so watch where you put your hands and feet, and check DOC for alerts before you head out.
How much shade is there on the walk? Thinking of going on a warm afternoon.
Is there car parking at Lake Waro?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there is car parking at the Lake Waro swim site. Toilets and changing facilities are also listed there, along with a picnic area.
Is there anywhere to shower or rinse off after a swim at Lake Waro?
How long is the drive from Whangārei to Ruakākā?
The LookoutCity guide
It's about 30 minutes' drive south of Whangārei, off State Highway 1. The track starts from the Mair Road car park next to the oil refinery.
Is there usually room at the Mair Road car park on a sunny weekend?
Is the Waipū Caves Track a loop or do you come back the same way?
The LookoutCity guide
It's not a loop. The track ends at a gate to private farmland on the ridgeline, and you walk back the same way you came up.
How busy does the Waipū Caves car park get on weekends, and is it easy to find a spot?
Is the ridge exposed if the weather turns?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes. The ridge area in Tangihua Forest is exposed to rough weather, and conditions can be changeable, so go well prepared.
How steep is the climb up the spur to the ridge? Any bits that are hard going?
Are there toilets near the Waipoua River swimming hole?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the nearest toilets are at the Tāne Mahuta car park and the Waipoua Visitor Centre, both a short drive along State Highway 12 in Waipoua Forest.
How much shade is there at the swimming hole in the afternoon?
Is there anything to watch out for on the Tangihua Nature Walk?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there may be wasps and wasp nests in the area. Because of kauri disease, scrub all soil off your shoes and gear, use the cleaning stations and stay on the track.
Is the track OK for a pram, or is it too rough from the old logging surface?
Is there anywhere to fill up my water bottle on the Kauri Dam Walk?
The LookoutCity guide
No, there is no water source in the forest, so carry plenty of water to drink with you.
Are there any toilets near the start, or should I go before driving out?
Is the road into Mimiwhangata sealed, and can I tow a caravan in?
The LookoutCity guide
The road is unsealed, narrow and winding after Teal Bay, and it's unsuitable for towing caravans. Leave the caravan behind and take it slowly.
Is there much shade on the way up, or is it pretty exposed in the afternoon?
Is the road out to Mimiwhangata sealed all the way?
The LookoutCity guide
No. After Teal Bay the road is unsealed, narrow and winding, and it is not suitable for towing caravans.
Is there room to park near the start at the saddle, or do people park along the road?
Is the Motutara walk a loop or do you come back the same way?
The LookoutCity guide
You come back the same way. It's a 3.4 km return walk on the same track, so it isn't a loop.
Has anyone taken a pram along the track out to the beaches?
How hard is the Paparahi Reserve Access Track?
The LookoutCity guide
It's graded easy to intermediate. You walk north along the beach, then climb the slope along the bush edge and carry on over farmland. It's only 500 m and takes about 15 minutes.
Is there much shade along the track, or is it mostly open in the afternoon sun?
Is Ruapekapeka Road sealed all the way to the car park?
The LookoutCity guide
No, the road is unsealed and narrow in places, so take care. Turn right into Ruapekapeka Road just past the Towai service station and follow it for 4 km.
Is there a toilet at the Ruapekapeka car park, or is it best to go before leaving the highway?
Are there picnic tables at the Mangawhai Heads car park?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are picnic tables and some seating at the Mangawhai Heads car park, plus toilets and free parking. There are no rubbish bins, so take your rubbish with you.
Is there much shade on the cliff track in the afternoon, or is it mostly exposed?
Is there a car park for the Horokaka Track, and how many cars does it hold?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the Tangihua access car park on Omana Road has parking for 15 cars. From there it's a 30 minute walk along a formed road to the bush line, where the track starts.
How much shade is there on the road walk and the first part of the climb?
Do I need to clean my shoes for kauri dieback at Tokatoka?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, scrub all soil off your shoes and gear, use the cleaning stations, and stay on the track to help protect kauri.
Is there room to park near the start of the track, or is it just roadside?
Do I need to clean my shoes before walking the Ōpua Kauri Walk?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes. Scrub all soil off your shoes and gear, use the cleaning stations and stay on the track to help stop kauri disease.
Are there any steep bits on the track, or is it fairly gentle all the way to the lookout?
Where do I park for the Tangihua Forest tracks, and how far is it to the bush?
The LookoutCity guide
Park at the Omana Road Tangihua access car park, which has room for 15 cars. From there it's a 30 minute walk along a formed road to the bush line.
Is the track mostly shaded bush, or open ridge in the sun for most of the way?
How many cars fit at the Tangihua car park on Omana Road?
The LookoutCity guide
The Omana Road car park fits 15 cars. From there it's a 30-minute walk along a formed road to the bush line, then another 15 minutes to Tangihua Lions Lodge.
Do primary school aged kids manage the walk to Kauri Grove okay?
Are there wasps on the Whangaruru North Head tracks?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes. Wasps and wasp nests are prevalent where the tracks pass through regenerating bush and farmland, so take care, especially if anyone in your group is allergic.
How steep is the climb up to the ridgeline from Puriri Bay?
How do I drive to the Pakotai Track from Dargaville?
The LookoutCity guide
Head northeast on SH14 for 11 km to Tangowahine, turn left onto Tangowahine Valley Road for 17.4 km, then right onto Murray Road. The track start is 4.5 km north, on the right.
Is there a toilet at the Pakotai Track start, or should I go before I leave?
Is there parking near the start of the Main Ridge Track?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, the Tangihua access car park on Omana Road has room for 15 cars. From there it's a 30-minute walk along a formed road to the bush line.
Are there any toilets at the Omana Road car park before you head in?
Do I need to clean my shoes before or after the Kauri Bushman's Walk?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes. Scrub all soil off your shoes and gear, use the cleaning stations and stay on the track to help stop kauri disease.
Has anyone taken a wheelchair around the loop? Wondering about the surface and any steps.
Are there wasps on the Morepork Track?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there may be wasps and wasp nests in the area, so take care along the track.
Is there much room to park at the end of Kaiikanui Road, or does it fill up?
Which tide table should I use for fishing Ocean Beach?
The LookoutCity guide
Use the Marsden Point tide table. It is the LINZ standard port for Ocean Beach, so check its times before you head out to the sand.
How far is the carry from the car park to the sand with a long rod and gear?
Is the Langsview Track a loop or one way?
The LookoutCity guide
It's not a loop. The Langsview Track is 6.5 km one way, so plan on walking back the same way or arranging a pickup at the other end.
Is there much shade along the ridge, or is it mostly open in the afternoon sun?
Can I camp at the Morrison Road car park in Matapōuri?
The LookoutCity guide
No. The Morrison Road car park at Matapōuri is a no-camping area, and so is McAuslin Road nearby. Check the site map before you park.
Is there drinking water at any of the beach sites, or do you need to fill up first?
Can you walk down to the bottom of Wairua Falls or only view from the top?
The LookoutCity guide
You can do both. The falls can be viewed from the car park at the top, or you can walk down to the base via the bush track.
Has anyone taken a dog to Wairua Falls? Are they fine on a lead at the lookout?
Can I bring my dog when I fish at Wilsons Dam?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, but keep your dog on a leash and out of the water. Young kiwi have been released in the area, which is why the leash rule is there.
Is there a toilet at the Sail Rock Road car park, or do you need to go before you come?
Can I camp on the grass overflow car park at Ocean Beach?
The LookoutCity guide
No, the grass overflow car park at Ocean Beach is permanently closed to camping. Use the main car park instead, which fits around four vehicles for one night.
How sheltered is the Ocean Beach car park if the wind picks up overnight?
Where should I buy bait and tackle before fishing Ruakākā?
The LookoutCity guide
Pick it up in Whangārei before you head out. Ruakākā is about 30 minutes' drive south of the city, so it's easiest to sort your gear there first.
Is Ruakākā a decent spot to take kids fishing for the first time?
How much shade is there on a hot day, or is most of it exposed?
Can I take my dog on the beach at Marsden Point?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, dogs can be off-leash on the beach from the Mair Road access point southward. That is the stretch running south towards Taotahi Walk.
Is the track from Mair Road onto the beach manageable in a wheelchair?
Is there parking close to where you fish at One Tree Point?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there's a car park only a few steps from the tip of the point, so you can carry your gear a very short way.
Is the ground at the point firm enough for a wheelchair or pram to get to the water?
What's the maximum stay at the Waipū Caves camping site?
The LookoutCity guide
One night is the limit at the Waipū Caves site.
Is the ground level enough for a van to park up for the night?
Which side of the path should I keep to when passing walkers?
The LookoutCity guide
Keep left. Pass other people at a polite speed and distance, and stay on the pavement.
Is it easy to find parking at Raumanga Scenic Reserve if you want to start there?
Is there more than one place to view the falls?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there are three. Two viewing points overlook the falls, and a third is near the historic weir, with direct access to the water. There are steep drops along the track, so supervise children.
Do the falls still look good in a dry spell, or is it best to go after rain?
Is there parking at Waipū Cove for the coastal walkway?
The LookoutCity guide
Yes, there is parking and walkway information at both ends of the Waipū Coastal Walkway, including the Waipū Cove end. That end also has toilets and a café.
Is there a boat ramp near Waipū Cove, or do people launch off the beach?
Is there rubbish collection at the Uretiti campsite after a day's fishing?
The LookoutCity guide
No, there's no rubbish collection, so pack out everything including bait scraps, compost and recycling. The Uretiti Recycling Centre on Tip Road is a 4 km drive from the campsite.
How close can you park to the beach if you're only there for a day's fishing?
Is there rubbish collection at Otamure Bay campsite?
The LookoutCity guide
No. It's pack in, pack out, with no rubbish, recycling or compost collection. The closest transfer station is at Hikurangi.
How is the phone coverage at Otamure Bay? Anyone get a signal at the sites?
How do I know where the marine reserve boundary is when fishing from a boat?
The LookoutCity guide
Shoreline boundary markers and floating buoys mark the reserve boundaries and are visible from the water. Signs at boat ramps around the harbour also explain the rules.
Does anyone fly fish the flats here, or is it mostly bait and lures?
Nothing here right now.