Last updated November 2026
The Motutara Recreation Reserve Walk is at Whananaki. When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed this track as closed: “This track has been closed due to storm damage.” Check the DOC page before you plan a visit.
When it is open, this is an easy walk across open farmland to a coastal reserve with small secluded beaches and good fishing and diving spots. DOC grades it easy to intermediate and allows 1 hour 40 minutes return for the 3.4 km return track, which starts at the base of the hill in Whananaki village.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Motutara Recreation Reserve Walk on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Status
- Closed when checked on 18 October 2026 (storm damage). Check DOC for reopening.
- Start
- Base of the hill in Whananaki village; signposted from Rockell Bay Road
- Distance from the city
- About 27 km from Whangārei in a straight line (DOC gives 40 km north east of Whangārei)
- Walking time
- 1 hour 40 minutes return
- Track length
- 3.4 km return via the same track
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Track type
- Walking track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- 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 Motutara Recreation Reserve Walk
Motutara Recreation Reserve sits on the east coast at Whananaki, about halfway between Russell and Whangārei. The walk crosses open farmland with coastal views along the way.
The first section passes through private farmland and a campground before you reach the reserve, so stay on the track. Inside the reserve you can wander freely, and out on the headland there are several small, secluded beaches.
DOC notes good fishing and diving spots around the reserve. Northland reserve bylaws apply here.
Track Closure
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC listed the track as closed due to storm damage. Check the DOC page for the latest status before you go, and do not use the track while it is closed.
Getting There and Before You Go
The walk starts in Whananaki village on the east coast and is signposted from Rockell Bay Road. DOC warns that roadside parking is limited.
When the track reopens, remember that wasps and wasp nests may be present, and leave gates as you find them on the farmland section. Tell someone your plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Motutara Recreation Reserve Walk open?
Not when we checked on 18 October 2026. DOC listed the track as closed due to storm damage. Check the DOC page for updates.
How long does the walk take?
DOC allows 1 hour 40 minutes return.
Where does it start?
At the base of the hill in Whananaki village, signposted from Rockell Bay Road.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it easy to intermediate.
Are dogs allowed?
No. DOC lists the walk as no dogs.
What is there at the reserve?
Several small secluded beaches on the headland, plus fishing and diving spots.
Is there parking?
DOC says roadside parking is limited.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Related links 2
- Department of Conservation: Motutara Recreation Reserve Walk: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
- Northland Regional Council: regional information for Northland, including water quality and environmental notices.
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.