Outside in Aotearoa
What's happening outdoors around New Zealand. Track updates, mountain news and good reasons to get out there.
Wharf–lighthouse–Wattle Track loop; about 1 hour walking; allow extra time for birds. Easy to intermediate, with steps and an uphill section. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Tiritiri Matangi Wattle loop: a bird-filled walk to the lighthouseAbout 5 km return from Omaha Valley Road; about 3 hours return. Advanced tramping track; sustained climb and uneven ground. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Tamahunga summit walk: a steeper bush outing near MatakanaAbout 2 km return to the lookout; about 1 hour 20 minutes return. Steep steps at first, then a forest ridge. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Dome Lookout walk: a forest climb above WarkworthAbout 2.2 km loop; about 50 minutes; allow longer at the lookouts. Moderate descent and climb; exposed coastal headland. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Mercer Bay Loop: west-coast cliffs without an all-day hikeAbout 2.8 km loop outing; about 1½ hours. Steep sections, steps and gravel; muddy in winter. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Matiatia Headland walk: Waiheke views straight from the ferryRotoroa Island is closed to visitors from 5–7 October 2026, including private boats. Plan the Southern Loop for a later date and check access first.
Read more... : Rotoroa Island Southern Loop: birds, beaches and island viewsAbout 3 km loop; allow 1½–2 hours. Moderate: several steep grassy climbs. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Mahurangi Cudlip Point Loop: ridges, bays and a picnic finishAbout 3.4 km for the shorter coastal outing; return varies with tide and detours; allow about 1–1½ hours with stops. Moderate hills, formed paths and an optional rocky beach return. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Long Bay to Grannys Bay: an easy-to-plan coastal escapeAbout 4 km circuit; about 1½ hours. Rolling grass and bush tracks; muddy after rain. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Duder Sustainable Trail: a relaxed farm and coastal-bush loopAbout 1.6 km loop; about 40 minutes, plus lookout stops. Short but hilly; grass and coastal bush. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Scandrett Mullet Point Loop: a short climb with big Gulf viewsAbout 3.3 km loop; about 1½ hours, plus stops. Moderate: hills, roots and a tidal beach option. Maps, start details and packing advice.
Read more... : Tāwharanui Ecology Trail: beach, bush and birdlife in one walkPlan a day on Motuihe with four walking options, easy-to-scan distances, boat planning, a real island map and practical packing advice.
Read more... : Motuihe Island walks: beaches, bush and four routes to choose from
