Discover Tāwharanui Regional Park's Ecology Trail
Located within Tāwharanui Regional Park, the Ecology Trail offers a captivating journey through diverse natural landscapes. Starting at the forest entrance off the North Coast Track, this trail is a must-visit for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. The trail begins in an area of forest regrowth, featuring young kauri trees, and descends into a gully with a modest stream. Here, the forest becomes more mature, with old pūriri trees standing out prominently.
Birdwatching on the Ecology Trail
While the forest itself is appealing, the main attraction of the Ecology Trail is its vibrant birdlife. In about half an hour, including time for photos, you can expect to encounter a variety of rare native birds. Common species such as tūī and pīwakawaka (fantails) are abundant, but you may also spot kererū and korimako, which had been extinct in mainland Auckland for many decades. The trail also provides opportunities to see the exceedingly rare takahē and the very rare tīeke (saddlebacks). Additionally, native robins, bitterns, and various species of native ducks and water birds can be observed. To increase your chances of sightings, walk carefully and quietly, as these birds are often just a few metres away.
Trail Options and Duration
The full loop of the Ecology Trail takes over an hour and a half to complete. For a shorter experience, you can walk to the track junction and return the same way, which takes about 40 minutes. From the stream junction, you have the option to head east on Fishermans Track or continue west through the main forest section along the Ecology Trail, eventually passing through wetlands and exiting near the beach.
Getting to Tāwharanui Regional Park
To reach the start of the Ecology Trail, head to Tāwharanui Regional Park, located on the Tāwharanui Peninsula. The park is accessible by car from Auckland, taking approximately 80 minutes via State Highway 1 and Matakana Road. Once in the park, follow signs to the North Coast Track to find the forest entrance where the Ecology Trail begins. Nearby, you can also explore other attractions within the park, such as the beautiful beaches and additional walking tracks.
