The drive along the Kaiaua or Shorebird Coast is as much an attraction as this newly opened loop track, which, on a fine day, offers panoramic views of Firth of Thames and the Coromandel Peninsula – and perhaps a glimpse of the blue-wattled kōkako.
Just a 90-minute drive from Auckland or Hamilton, it’s a half-day walk on a well-formed track and gravel road in a regional park that’s rather out on a limb, so you may well find you have the trail to yourself, even in summer.
The surface and elevation make it an ideal choice for trampers or runners in training, and the mature forest with its abundant birdlife, especially in the upper reaches, will appeal to those seeking time in nature.
Missed Friday’s feature? FMC condemns approval of hydro scheme in pristine West Coast river, disabled kea achieves social dominance using unique technique, DOC warns of 'unprecedented threat' from proposed gold mine and more news in last week’s The World Outdoors.
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This week in tramping history
Cave Creek tragedy on the West Coast
28 April 1995
The nation was shocked when a scenic viewing platform in Paparoa National Park collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 13 Tai Poutini Polytechnic students and a DOC worker. The tragedy resulted in wide criticism of the government and its policies towards funding and management of the conservation estate. A formal inquiry revealed that serious systemic failures had led to the building of the unstable viewing platform. This resulted in major changes to DOC procedures that have made the New Zealand backcountry a safer place.
Current Issue - May 2026
Trips with mum, visit the new Brass Monkey Hut on the Lewis Pass tops, two Wilderness gear experts explain why they're bucking the ultralight trend, mapped trip reports, gear guides and dozens more articles!
Photo of the week 📸
This week’s photo comes from Andrew Ure, Jeremy Maarschalk, Trudie Pope and Rebekah Goodwin who camped at Routeburn Flats en route to Lake Nerine. “It was a great time,” said Andrew. “The weather wasn’t all great, but it’s amazing country.”
This photo was submitted as part of our monthly Last Weekend feature. Each month we publish reader submitted photos in the mag and online. If your photo is published you’ll received a Real Meals meal worth $18!
Email [email protected] with your submissions.
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