Last updated July 2026
The Te Whara Track traverses the spine of Bream Head Scenic Reserve at Whangārei Heads, offering a challenging point-to-point ridge walk with panoramic island views. Managed by the Department of Conservation, the 7.5 km route climbs through coastal forest to the summit of Te Whara before descending to Urquharts Bay. The reserve protects one of Northland’s finest examples of coastal broadleaf forest and holds deep cultural significance as wāhi tapu for local iwi.
Practical Information
| Location | Bream Head Scenic Reserve, Whangārei Heads |
| Distance | 7.5 km one way |
| Time | 5–6 hours one way |
| Difficulty | Hard — steep climbs, stairs, tree-root scrambles, exposed drop-offs |
| Elevation change | +/- 456 m |
| Track type | Point-to-point (part of Te Araroa Trail) |
| Start | Ocean Beach carpark, Ranui Road |
| End | Urquharts Bay carpark |
| Cost | Free |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Restrictions | No dogs, no open fires; stay on marked tracks |
About Bream Head Scenic Reserve
Bream Head Scenic Reserve protects a rugged coastal ridge and peaks including Te Whara (476 m) and Matariki/Mt Lion (371 m). It is recognised as one of the best examples of coastal broadleaf forest in Northland and supports a rich array of native species including North Island brown kiwi, kūkupa/kererū, toutouwai/North Island robin, pōpokotea/whitehead, kāka, kākāriki and the threatened pūpūharakeke/flax snail.
The reserve is also an important archaeological and cultural landscape with more than 500 years of Māori occupation. Te Whara/Bream Head is wāhi tapu, regarded by iwi as an ancestor, and the area includes former urupā. The Te Whara Track follows an ancient Māori trail at least 700 years old associated with the rangatira Manaia.
Ongoing restoration by DOC, local iwi and the Bream Head Conservation Trust includes predator control and revegetation. North Island brown kiwi have been released and the area is designated a kiwi sanctuary. Seabird populations, including grey-faced petrels, are also recovering.
Te Whara Track
The track begins at the Ocean Beach carpark on Ranui Road and climbs steeply through forest with many stairs and root scrambles. It passes a WWII radar station ruin and a picnic table before reaching the summit of Te Whara, where 360-degree views open across the Poor Knights Islands, Hen and Chickens Islands, Cape Brett and Cape Rodney. On clear days Little Barrier and Great Barrier Islands are visible.
After the summit the route follows the ridge past the Peach Cove Track turn-off, over Mt Lion and descends to meet the Smugglers Bay Loop before finishing at Urquharts Bay carpark. The final grazed section may have livestock. Toilets are available at both end carparks and Peach Cove Hut, but none on the track itself.
Other Tracks and Activities
Shorter options within the reserve include the Smugglers Bay Loop Track, which starts from Urquharts Bay and passes historic sites, and the Peach Cove Track, a steep 3-hour return route to a sandy beach. The reserve is primarily for walking and tramping; no cycling trails are present and dogs are prohibited to protect wildlife.
Adjacent beaches such as Ocean Beach and Smugglers Bay offer opportunities for swimming and coastal exploration outside the forest reserve itself.
Planning and Safety
Because the track is point-to-point, arrange a vehicle shuttle or return transport in advance. Start from Ocean Beach to tackle the main climb early. The route is exposed in places with steep drop-offs; a fall could be fatal. It becomes very slippery after rain, so choose a dry day and wear sturdy footwear with good grip. Carry plenty of water, food, sun protection, a rain jacket and a fully charged phone. Supervise children closely on rocky sections.
What Visitors Often Say
The island views from the ridge are spectacular and worth the steep effort, with panoramas stretching to the Poor Knights, Hen and Chickens and beyond on clear days. The track feels remote and rewarding for fit walkers.
Sections are very slippery when wet and some drop-offs are exposed, so good preparation and dry conditions are essential. Many appreciate the ancient track history and forest birdlife along the way.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Te Whara Track: official track description, safety notes, directions and current status.
DOC — Bream Head Scenic Reserve: reserve overview, cultural and ecological information, and restoration details.
Whangarei District Council — Bream Head Scenic Reserve: local council page with park features and access information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Te Whara Track a loop?
No. It is a point-to-point track from Ocean Beach carpark to Urquharts Bay carpark. Arrange transport between the ends before starting.
How difficult is the Te Whara Track?
DOC rates it hard. It features steep climbs, many stairs, tree-root scrambles and exposed sections with steep drop-offs. Good fitness and appropriate footwear are required.
How long does the Te Whara Track take?
Allow 5–6 hours for the 7.5 km one-way route. Start early and add time for rests and viewpoints.
Are dogs allowed in Bream Head Scenic Reserve?
No. Dogs are prohibited to protect native wildlife including kiwi.
What wildlife might I see?
The reserve supports North Island brown kiwi, kūkupa/kererū, toutouwai, pōpokotea and other native birds. Listen for birdcall in the forest sections.
When is the track best avoided?
After heavy rain the track becomes very slippery. Check the DOC website for any closures or conditions before visiting.
What should I bring on the Te Whara Track?
Plenty of water, lunch and snacks, sturdy boots with good grip, a rain jacket, sun protection, a fully charged phone and emergency supplies.
Is there camping or huts on the track?
Peach Cove Hut is accessible via a side track. The main Te Whara Track itself has no camping facilities.
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