Last updated July 2026
Parahaki is a suburb of Whangārei located at the base of Mount Parihaka, a prominent volcanic dome rising north-east of the city centre. The mountain and its surrounding Parihaka Scenic Reserve form the defining feature of the area, with walking tracks, road access options, and connections to nearby parks. A World War II war memorial obelisk stands at the summit and is illuminated at night. The suburb also includes residential areas and recreational facilities along the Hātea River.
Practical Information
| Location | North-east of Whangārei city centre |
| Key landmark | Mount Parihaka — 241 m volcanic dome |
| Summit access | Memorial Drive (vehicle access currently closed due to storm damage; walkers and cyclists permitted via gate) |
| Walking tracks | Multiple tracks through Parihaka Scenic Reserve; bridge to Mair Park |
| War memorial | WWII obelisk at summit, illuminated red at night |
| Also at Parahaki | Pohe Island Skatepark at William Fraser Memorial Park, Dave Culham Drive |
| Suburb character | Residential with adjacent scenic reserve and riverfront park |
About Parahaki
The suburb of Parahaki takes its name from the mountain that defines it. The mountain has two spellings in use: Parahaki, an older anglicised form, and Parihaka, the original Māori spelling officially restored by the New Zealand Geographic Board in 2005. Both refer to the same volcanic dome, one of several volcanic features in the Whangārei area.
The mountain is surrounded by the Parihaka Scenic Reserve, a forested reserve managed by the Whangārei District Council. Walking tracks run through the reserve, offering routes from short walks near the base to longer circuits toward the summit. A road also provides access to the summit area, though vehicle access via Memorial Drive is currently closed due to storm damage from Cyclone Gabrielle, with walkers and cyclists still able to reach the summit via a gate.
From the summit viewing platform, panoramic views extend across Whangārei city and harbour. The reserve connects to Mair Park by a bridge, extending the walkable green corridor from the suburb into the wider reserve network.
Mount Parihaka: History and the War Memorial
Mount Parihaka’s history reaches back long before European settlement. The summit and its slopes were once the site of a major fortified pā, reputedly one of the largest in New Zealand. The reserve contains visible remains of three pā sites, housing terraces, storage pits, and defensive palisades. A battle and massacre took place here in the 1700s, and over 100 terraces and 300 kumara pits have been identified on the mountain. The name reflects this history: pari (cliffs) and haka (war dance).
At the summit stands Whangārei’s World War II War Memorial, a stainless steel obelisk constructed in 1956 and formally dedicated on Anzac Day 1957. The memorial commemorates 170 local citizens who died in the war and features four glowing red crosses. It is illuminated at night, making it a visible landmark from across much of the city and harbour.
Recreation and Facilities in Parahaki
Parahaki offers several recreational options beyond the scenic reserve. The Pohe Island Skatepark is located at William Fraser Memorial Park on Dave Culham Drive, next to the Hātea River and the Hātea Loop walkway. The park includes a playground, bike skills area, and sports fields, providing family-friendly facilities alongside the river.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently praise the panoramic views from the summit and the combination of road and track access options. Many note the striking red illumination of the memorial at night and appreciate the short but rewarding walks through native bush.
Reviewers often mention the historical significance of the pā sites and the peaceful atmosphere at the memorial. Families highlight the nearby skatepark and river walks as convenient additions to a visit to the reserve.
Where to Learn More
Parihaka Scenic Reserve — Whangārei District Council: Official page with current track status, access details, history, and facilities.
Whangārei Second World War Memorial — NZHistory: Details on the memorial’s construction, dedication, and significance.
William Fraser Memorial Park — Whangārei District Council: Information on the skatepark and other facilities at Pohe Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Parahaki in Whangārei?
Parahaki is a suburb north-east of Whangārei city centre, at the base of Mount Parihaka within the Parihaka Scenic Reserve.
Is the mountain called Parahaki or Parihaka?
Both spellings refer to the same 241-metre volcanic dome. The original Māori spelling, Parihaka, was officially restored by the New Zealand Geographic Board in 2005. Parahaki is an older anglicised form still used locally.
Can you drive to the top of Mount Parihaka?
Vehicle access via Memorial Drive is currently closed due to storm damage, but walkers and cyclists can reach the summit via a gate approximately 800 m from the lower carpark.
What is the obelisk on top of Mount Parihaka?
The obelisk is Whangārei’s World War II War Memorial, constructed in 1956 and dedicated in 1957. It features four glowing red crosses and is illuminated at night.
What was the pā on Parihaka?
Mount Parihaka was the site of a large fortified pā, reputedly one of the largest in New Zealand, with three pā sites, terraces, and storage pits. A battle and massacre occurred here in the 1700s.
Are there walking tracks at Parihaka?
Yes, the Parihaka Scenic Reserve has multiple walking tracks through native bush. A bridge connects the reserve to Mair Park, and the summit is reachable on foot.
What views does Mount Parihaka have?
From the summit viewing platform, views extend over Whangārei city and harbour, with additional vistas possible on clear days.
What else is in Parahaki suburb?
The Pohe Island Skatepark is located at William Fraser Memorial Park on Dave Culham Drive, next to the Hātea River and walkway, with playgrounds and other facilities.
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