Great walks in Doubtless Bay

Local Knowledge list of Walks in Doubtless Bay and Beyond

The Heritage Trail - Mangonui and Mill Bay

Beginning and ending at the Mangonui Courthouse, the Heritage Trail provides a glimpse of the great wealth of Maori and European history associated with this area.

The Trail is three kilometres in length and accessible by foot or vehicle. The average time it takes to walk the Trail is one-and-a-half hours. Walkers are advised to take the St Andrew’s walkway to access sites and enjoy the spectacular views from above Mangonui. Please be aware that Mary Hassett Street (formerly known as Grey Street West) and Tasman Street are very steep.

Taumarumaru Pa

Located on a steep rocky headland, Taumarumaru Reserve contains three pa sites, two on the headland (Ohumuhumu and Otanenui) and one on the central ridge (Taumarumaru).

Found within the reserve are undefended living terraces and storage pits which indicate this site was intensively occupied in pre-European times.

Taumarumaru Scenic Reserve is mostly an open area and tracks are identified by mowing and track markers. A short walk over the reserve is rewarded with great views and access to a small beach.

The reserve provides ideal opportunities for walking, fishing and historic appreciation. Dogs are allowed in the reserve provided they are on a lead at all times.

Rangikapiti Pa Loop 

Experience this 1.9-km loop trail between Coopers Beach and Mangonui, Northland. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 38 min to complete. Check out the view from the pa and then continue on the loop trail towards Coopers Beach. This trail is great for hiking and walking. Dogs permitted on a lead. 

This track takes you to the Rangikapiti Historic Reserve located on the south-western head of Mangōnui Harbour . It's a short loop with the Rangikapiti Pā site and spectacular views over the Mangōnui Harbour and Doubtless Bay. A local group have been reforesting this trail and it is well maintained and you can even hear kiwi on a good day. Access from the Rangkapiti Road end. There's a car park at the trailhead. 

Great Beach Walks

A favourite place to walk the dog is Taipa Beach or Coopers Beach - both about 1 km long the are level with firm sand (mostly) and rocks to explore at the end. 

Posted by Rosemary Archibald on May 16, 2023