Te Araroa: Waiwera to Ōrewa
Te Araroa, New Zealand's long-distance walking trail, goes through the Hibiscus Coast in northern Auckland. One of the best sections of runs from Waiwera to Ōrewa. This part of the hike takes you beneath high cliffs and along rocky points for a unique coastal experience.
Coastal Features and Highlights
The walk from Waiwera to Ōrewa is undertaken when the tide is retreating, making the rocky platforms below the cliffs accessible. This hike takes approximately two hours one way. Along the route, you will encounter rockpools, ideal fishing spots, and beautiful beaches. The cliffs display a variety of colours, and you might discover small sea caves with vibrantly coloured rocks. Upon reaching Ōrewa, you can enjoy a well-deserved break on the 3 km beach or in a local cafe.
Shorter Walk Options
For those with limited time, you can start at the north end of Ōrewa Beach and walk to Hatfields Beach and back, which takes about 40 minutes.
How to Get There
Both ends of this walk are accessible via the Twin Coast Discovery Highway. To start the hike, you can travel to either Waiwera or Ōrewa. From Downtown Auckland, head north on the motorway, then take the exit for Puhoi and head towards Waiwera on the Twin Coast Discovery Highway.
You can also walk a section of Te Araroa on the Puhoi Track and in Wenderholm Regional Park. Other nearby walks include Alice Eaves Scenic Reserve and Te Ara Tahuna Pathway at the south end of Ōrewa Beach.
