Stomping grounds
Words Luke Williamson
Celebrating 14 years of showing visitors the beauty of the Mahurangi region, and a little beyond, Warkworth Walks is on the march again from 10-12 November, with a wide and varied choice of some of the best walks out there.
Brand new for 2023 is a visit to Atiu Creek Regional Park, situated on the beautiful Kaipara Harbour, and still a novelty to many. The guides will take you on a visually stunning circuit of the park, stopping to enjoy a packed lunch and some historical highlights along the way.
Also new this year is the Fallen Tree Bush Walk, which follows a loop track in the hills immediately to the north-east of Warkworth. This trail goes through thick bush and will appeal to dedicated trampers. There are sneaky views to be had and plenty of bird song, so lots to look forward to.
Returning in 2023 is Takatu Rock Hopper, taking walkers along the southern coastline of Takatu Peninsula, visiting the beaches and bays along the way, and enjoying amazing views of Kawau Bay.
Walk on Water begins this year with a kayak trip down the Puhoi River to the southern end of Mahurangi Regional Park. Then walking north via Te Muri and Sullivans Bay to Opahi Bay. The trail will offer the best of land and water, and a truly unique experience.
The Bigger Big Omaha Trail will go south to north again this year. At roughly 18km of uphill and down-dale, this is for serious walkers who enjoy a bit of everything, including spectacular views north and south from some of the highest points in the district.
The ever-popular Vineyard Trail includes visits to Beetopia, Sculptureum, and several local vineyards for tastings and lunch. Always fun and convivial, this sells out fast.
Crowd favourite, Duck Creek Explorer, visits Bohemian Cider, Mahurangi Olives and a new private trail on Solway Farm. A joyful day out with gorgeous views and tastings.
Totally Tamahunga takes you to the top of our local maunga, the historic site of Otamahua pā. There are beautiful views from the summit and a well-deserved lunch stop at Sawmill Café to look forward to.
Mahu West Wonderland offers glorious views, native bush and the gorgeous beaches
of Mahurangi West. The Warkworth Walks team did this trail in April and everyone was astounded at how beautiful it is, so check it out for yourselves.
The coastal classic, Goat Island to Pākiri, is the best way to see this magnificent stretch of coastline, incorporating marine reserve, rocky shore, soaring hillsides and white sand beach. Truly splendid, and a rewarding lunch at Sawmill Café to finish.
To cap it all off, we revisit Tāwharanui Regional Park with guides who know the park inside out. Insiders’ Tāwharanui will take you places you might not get to on your own,
and seek out the special corners, creatures and plants that only the experienced
guides know.
Make a long weekend of it and take in a selection of the great walks on offer. Check the website for details and remember to book early to avoid disappointment.