Boswell’s Track is a 5.7km loop trail in the Onerahi area of Whangārei that takes you through one of the district’s more unusual cycling and walking environments — a mangrove estuary along the edge of Whangārei Harbour. The track is Grade 1 and all-weather, making it accessible for families and casual riders, and takes around one to two hours to complete the full loop. It connects directly to the Waimahanga Walkway, which extends the ride further along the harbour if you want more distance.
Practical Information
| Distance | 5.7km loop (or approximately 4km one way) |
| Grade | Easy (Grade 1) |
| Surface | All-weather track through mangrove estuary |
| Time | 1–2 hours for the full loop |
| Location | Onerahi, Whangārei |
| Open | Year-round |
| Connects to | Waimahanga Walkway and Onerahi to Town Basin coastal route |
About Boswell’s Track
Boswell’s Track starts and finishes in the Onerahi suburb, looping out through the mangrove estuary that borders the inner harbour. The mangrove section is the standout part of the ride — you are essentially riding through a tidal forest on a formed track, with the mangrove roots and mudflats visible on either side depending on the tide. At low tide the habitat is particularly active, with wading birds working the exposed flats.
The track is well-suited to families with younger children, being flat and straightforward throughout. The all-weather surface means it holds up well after rain, unlike some of the harder clay trails in the area. Dogs are welcome on leash.
Boswell’s Track connects to the Waimahanga Walkway at one end, which follows a former railway alignment through Onerahi for a further 4km. Together the two tracks form the backbone of the Onerahi to Town Basin coastal route — a 6km off-road connection that links Onerahi all the way to the Hātea Loop at the Town Basin.
Onerahi as a Base
Onerahi is a quiet harbour-side suburb about 10 minutes’ drive from Whangārei’s city centre. It has a small shopping area and is also the location of Whangārei Airport. The suburb’s harbour-edge location means there are good water views from various points along the track, and the area has a noticeably different feel from the city’s more built-up cycling corridors.
What Visitors Say
“Lovely easy ride through the mangroves. The kids loved seeing the mudflats and birds up close. Well-formed track the whole way and very peaceful.”
Where to Learn More
AllTrails — Boswell’s Track
Trail map, user reviews, and current conditions for Boswell’s Track.
Trailforks — Boswell’s Track
Trail data and route map for Boswell’s Track from Trailforks.
Whangarei District Council — Cycling and Walking
Overview of Whangārei’s cycling and walking network, including the Onerahi shared path network.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Boswell’s Track?
The full loop is 5.7km and takes approximately one to two hours to complete. You can also ride it as a one-way track of around 4km.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes — the flat, easy Grade 1 surface makes it well suited to families with children. The all-weather track is comfortable for most bikes.
What is the surface like?
The track is all-weather and holds up well in wet conditions. It passes through the mangrove estuary, so expect to be close to the tidal harbour environment.
Can I combine it with other tracks?
Yes. Boswell’s Track connects to the Waimahanga Walkway, and together they form part of the Onerahi to Town Basin coastal route — a 6km off-road connection to the city centre.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome on leash.
What wildlife might I see?
The mangrove section is good for wading birds and herons, particularly at low tide when the mudflats are exposed.
For more cycling routes in Whangārei, see Cycling Tracks in Whangarei. The Waimahanga Walkway connects to Boswell’s Track and extends the ride further along the harbour.