Ridgeline Walk to Kukutauwhao Island
The Tutukākā Track follows a ridge to a clifftop grassland on the north side of Tutukākā, across a narrow neck walkable at low tide, then to the solar navigation beacon on Kukutauwhao Island. The round trip takes around an hour and is rated easy to moderate. From the ridge line and the island, the views are spectacular, including the Poor Knights Islands, Tutukākā Harbour, and, on clear days, Cape Brett and Aotea Great Barrier Island.
Walking the Track
Access is from Landowners Lane, a private road with public right of passage, off Matapouri Road, roughly 500 metres north of the Oceans Resort Hotel. Drive carefully along the lane; one narrow section is clearly marked. Parking at the end is limited. Alternatively, a short, steep track from the marina climbs up to meet Landowners Lane.
From the car park, the track crosses open ridgetop grassland with native replanting near the start and bench seats along the way. The clifftop views are already outstanding before the island is reached. Steep steps descend to the neck between the headland and Kukutauwhao Island, where the geology becomes striking: bright orange rock formations that contrast sharply with the dark surrounding rock at the base of the neck, which carries thin white streaks. A little rock-hopping is needed to cross without wet feet. Time your visit within two hours either side of low tide.
After crossing the neck, the rough track narrows and climbs through regrowth coastal bush. There is a moderately exposed section on the first section, quite safe but noticeable, followed by an easy bush section, then a steeper climb near the top. The bush opens near the summit to clifftop views around the solar beacon at the island's tip. The track surface is dirt and clay, which can be slippery in wet conditions; sturdy shoes are recommended.
How to Get There
From Tutukākā, drive north along Matapouri Road for 500 metres and turn right into Landowners Lane. Follow the lane to the small car park at the end. Check the tide before you go.
Nearby places to visit include Church Bay, Kowharewa Bay, Whangaumu Bay, the Whangaumu Bay Track, Kauakarangi and Ngunguru.
