Getting there
The Esplanade, Waihi Beach
At the very northern end of Waihi Beach (just past the surf lifesaving club) you’ll find the entrance to this track. Access isn’t always possible during high tide or if there’s a very strong swell, so pick the right time to go.
About the walks
Orokawa Scenic Reserve Track
45 minutes one way (Waihi Beach to Orokawa Bay)
This spectacular Department of Conservation coastal reserve consists of remnant coastal forest
and its coastline is fringed with pohutukawa. It’ll take you around 45 minutes to walk through the lush dense bush and descend down into the beautiful Orokawa Bay. Enjoy the sounds of birdlife as you pass by towering pohutukawa trees, kauri, puriri and our native nikau palm trees.
You’ll have stunning views of the coastline and Pacific Ocean during this walk, including a bird’s eye view over Waihi Beach’s white sand before you disappear over the top of the headland.
This is an easy to moderate walk but it is hilly so wear sturdy walking or running shoes rather than jandals. There are no toilets, drinking water, food or facilities available along the way, so make sure you’re well prepared before you set out.
William Wright Falls
90 minutes one way (Orokawa Bay to William Wright Falls)
The bush track to the William Wright Falls is
accessible from the northern end of Orokawa
Beach. The journey up and along the stream bed
is best suited to the experienced hiker. Located
approximately 1.5 kilometres into the bush, the
falls are framed by a steep forested hillside and
they spill over a sheer rock face 30 metres above
the pool, dropping in two stages to the valley floor.
Homunga Bay
90 minutes one way (Orokawa Bay to Homunga Bay) OR 30 minutes one way (Ngatitangata Road end – Homunga Bay)
Homunga Bay is notable for dense pohutukawa
forest, its beauty and its seclusion.
It can be reached by a track from the northern
end of Orokawa Bay. This track is well-developed
and maintained, providing spectacular views
and interesting terrain. Caution, good footwear,
water and a day pack are essential.
Another option for this walk is to start at
Ngatitangata Road (above Homunga Bay) and walk
down the hills to the coast, via Orokawa Bay
to exit at Waihi Beach.
If you decide to start and return at Ngatitangata
Road, be aware the path is a long, steep climb.
Walkers should allow three hours from
Waihi Beach to Homunga Bay, 90 minutes from
Orokawa Bay to Homunga Bay or 45-60 minutes
between Homunga Bay and Ngatitangata Road.
