Last updated July 2026
The Waimahanga Walkway is a series of linked harbour-side paths in the Onerahi area of Whangārei that form part of the Onerahi Shared Path. It follows the alignment of a disused railway line along the edge of Whangārei Harbour and passes through an intertidal zone dominated by mangroves. The route is popular with walkers, runners, cyclists and dog-walkers on leash, and offers easy access to coastal scenery and birdlife. It connects with Boswell’s Track and other local links to create longer off-road rides or walks.
Practical Information
| Distance | Boswell’s Track: 2.5 km one way; Waverley Street link: 1 km; George Point Road link: 150 m |
| Grade | 2 (short walk on well-made path with possible steeper sections) |
| Surface | Loose metal/gravel, all-weather; some boardwalks and footbridges |
| Time | Boswell’s Track: 45 minutes one way; Waverley Street link: 20 minutes; George Point Road link: 10 minutes |
| Location | Onerahi, Whangārei; main access at end of Waimahanga Road |
| Open | Year-round |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair and pushchair friendly on main sections; George Point Road link has numerous steps |
| Dogs | Allowed on leash and under control |
| Facilities | Parking at Waimahanga Road, Waverley Street and Cockburn Street; toilets nearby |
About the Waimahanga Walkway
The walkway network follows the route of a former railway line that once connected the Onerahi wharf area to Whangārei. Boswell’s Track, the main section, runs from the northern end of Waimahanga Road through bush before entering mangrove forest along the harbour edge. The route passes over footbridges and boardwalks in the tidal zone, where the associated wildlife is of special interest.
Mangroves dominate the intertidal areas, providing habitat for wading birds and other species. Circular walks are possible by linking back through Onerahi streets. The paths are all-weather and accessible to most users, though the George Point Road link includes a steep section with steps and a bench at the top offering harbour views.
The entire network forms part of the broader Onerahi Shared Path, which runs approximately 6 km from Dave Culham Drive on Pohe Island eastward to the southern tip of the Onerahi Peninsula. This creates opportunities for extended rides or walks connecting to the Hātea Loop Walkway in the Town Basin.
Extending the Route via Boswell’s Track and Onerahi Shared Path
Boswell’s Track continues the ride or walk from the Waimahanga Road end into more mangrove and harbour-edge terrain. After about 1 km there is a link to George Point Road, followed by the Waverley Street link that crosses a swing bridge and boardwalks. These connections allow riders and walkers to reach Cockburn Street and link into the longer Onerahi to Town Basin coastal route.
The combined off-road sections provide a satisfying half-day outing when paired with the Hātea Loop. The route stays relatively flat and near sea level, making it suitable for a range of fitness levels and family groups.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the mangrove sections as interesting and peaceful, with good birdlife and easy, flat gravel paths suitable for families and dogs on leash. Many appreciate the coastal views and the chance to combine it with other Onerahi paths for a longer ride or walk.
Reviewers note the well-maintained surface, accessibility for most users, and the unique experience of riding or walking through the tidal mangrove environment close to the city.
Where to Learn More
Whangarei District Council – Waimahanga walkway: Official details on tracks, grades, access points, facilities and dog rules.
Whangarei District Council – Onerahi Shared Path: Information on the 6 km shared path and connections to Waimahanga and Boswell’s Track.
Whangarei District Council – Dog areas: Current rules for on-leash walking on the Waimahanga Track and shared paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Waimahanga Walkway?
Boswell’s Track is 2.5 km one way. Additional links add 1 km (Waverley Street) and 150 m (George Point Road).
Is it suitable for cycling?
Yes. The all-weather gravel surface is popular with cyclists and forms part of the Onerahi Shared Path network.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are allowed on leash and under control on the tracks in this area.
Where does the walkway start?
The most common starting point is at the end of Waimahanga Road in Onerahi, with parking available. Other access points include Waverley Street and Cockburn Street.
Are there steep sections?
The George Point Road link is steep with numerous steps. The main Boswell’s Track and Waverley Street link are generally easier.
What wildlife might I see?
The mangrove and intertidal zones support wading birds and other coastal species, especially at low tide.
Is the route wheelchair or pushchair friendly?
Main sections are accessible to most users, including wheelchair and pushchair friendly paths, though the George Point Road link has steps.
Can I combine it with other routes?
Yes. It connects directly to Boswell’s Track and the Onerahi Shared Path, allowing extension toward the Town Basin and Hātea Loop Walkway.
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