Te Ara Hura Walking Track

Te Ara Hura, meaning “Discover the Way” in te reo Māori, is a 100-kilometre walking trail that loops around Waiheke Island, offering an immersive experience through its coastal landscapes, native bush, charming villages, and quiet roads. It’s the perfect way to experience the island’s true essence on foot.

Origins and Development

Officially opened in 2015, Te Ara Hura is the product of collaboration between Auckland Council, local iwi, and Waiheke’s dedicated community. The goal was to create a trail that connected existing tracks, roads, and new pathways to form one continuous network around the island—an experience for locals and visitors to reconnect with the land.

Trail Overview

The Te Ara Hura walking track is divided into four distinctive zones:

1. Headlands Walk – Clifftops & Vistas

• Distance: 10.8 km

• Time: 3–4 hours

• Grade: Moderate

• Best for: Epic views, native bush, art lovers

Starting from Matiatia Bay (ferry terminal), this walk showcases the best of Waiheke’s northern coast. It winds past dramatic clifftops, regenerating bush, and art installations, including the route of the famous Sculpture on the Gulf exhibition.

You’ll pass:

• Owhanake Bay

• Cable Bay lookout

• Church Bay sculpture trail

• Oneroa Village

Perfect for: Those short on time who want a powerful taste of Waiheke's landscapes and creativity.

2. Beaches 'n’ Baches – Coastal Charm & Village Life

• Distance: 14.3 km

• Time: 4–5 hours

• Grade: Moderate

• Best for: Beach hopping, cafes, heritage

This section connects some of Waiheke’s most iconic beaches — Oneroa, Little Oneroa, Palm Beach, and Onetangi — with relaxed trails through village lanes, parks, and reserves.

Highlights include:

• Gelato in Oneroa

• BBQ spots at Little Oneroa

• Pohutukawa groves at Palm Beach

• Long beachfront walks on Onetangi

This is the “classic Waiheke” trail — perfect for a sunny day and ideal to break up with lunch or a swim.

3. Forest Heart – Lush Bush & Birdsong

• Distance: 15.5 km

• Time: 4–6 hours

• Grade: Moderate to Hard

• Best for: Shady forest, birdlife, inner island adventures

This inland walk dives into Waiheke’s forested reserves and hills, showcasing Te Toki Reserve, Onetangi Sports Park, and native wetlands. It’s quieter, cooler, and ideal for spotting kererū, pīwakawaka, and tūī.

Expect winding tracks, rural backroads, and a deeper sense of the island's ecology. Combine this with a guided eco-walk from Terra & Tide or a wellness retreat stop.

4. The Hidden Corner – Untouched & Underrated

• Distance: 23.2 km

• Time: 7–8 hours (or break into parts)

• Grade: Hard

• Best for: Experienced hikers, remoteness, farmland

This eastern section is more rugged and remote. Walk from Rocky Bay toward Orapiu and Man O’ War Bay, encountering farmland, native bush, and dramatic sea views. Access can be tricky, so planning ahead is essential.

Highlights include:

• Old farm tracks

• Scenic ridgelines

• Private bays

• Native tree plantings

Bring water, snacks, and solid shoes — it’s a true day out.

5. The Far End – History & Horizons

• Distance: 23.6 km

• Time: 7–9 hours

• Grade: Hard

• Best for: WW2 history, tunnels, east coast adventure

This easternmost section includes Stony Batter Historic Reserve, Man O’ War Bay, and the wild, open coast. It’s a dramatic finish for those doing the full Te Ara Hura loop — or a standalone trek for history buffs and backcountry walkers.

At Stony Batter, explore underground WW2 tunnels and gun placements built to defend Auckland Harbour. Entry to the tunnels is by guided tour.

Access requires transport (e.g. eRide e-bike hire or pre-booked shuttle). Allow for logistics when planning this day trip.

Whether you're up for a short afternoon stroll or a five-day island circumnavigation, you can pick and mix your route. There’s no wrong way to walk it.

View the Official Te Ara Hura Walking Map

Before setting out, we recommend downloading the official trail map provided by Auckland Council:
Te Ara Hura Walking Track Map (PDF)

You can also find route information, trail notes, and itinerary ideas on this local site:
www.walkwaiheke.co.nz

Planning Your Walk

Te Ara Hura is flexible. Here’s how you can explore it:

• Short Walks: Try a 1–2 hour loop near Oneroa or Palm Beach.

• Day Walks: Tackle a full section in one day—like Headlands or Forest Heart.

• Multi-Day Adventure: Complete the entire circuit over 4–5 days with overnight stays.

• DIY or Guided: Do it on your own terms or book through a guided experience.

Tip: Plan for café stops, swims, and vineyard visits to really soak up the Waiheke lifestyle.

Practical Tips

• Wayfinding: Te Ara Hura is clearly signposted with orange marker posts.

• Track Conditions: Some sections may close due to weather or conservation efforts. Check the latest updates on Walk Waiheke.

• Dogs: Dogs are not permitted on some trails. Always check the map or signage.

• Fitness Level: Most tracks are moderate, but terrain varies. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

Highlights Along the Trail

• Matiatia to Oneroa: A classic coastal walk with art galleries, eateries, and ferry access.

• Onetangi to Rocky Bay: A mix of farmland, forest, and stunning lookout points.

• Whakanewha Regional Park: Home to pā sites, wetlands, and the shy banded rail bird.

• Stony Batter: Explore historic military tunnels set in volcanic rock.

• Ostend to Palm Beach: A great walk with sweeping views and a dip in the sea to finish.

Cultural and Environmental Significance

Te Ara Hura is a trail through living heritage. The track passes areas of significance to Ngāti Pāoa and other iwi, many of whom have lived on the island for generations. Along the way, you’ll encounter sacred sites, pā remnants, and coastal taonga.

Environmentally, the track traverses a mosaic of coastal bush, wetlands, and farmland. Walking the trail supports slow travel, sustainable tourism, and low-impact exploration, in line with the Tiaki Promise—to care for people, place, and culture.

Te Ara Hura is more than a walk—it’s a journey through the heart and soul of Waiheke Island. Whether you hike it solo, with friends, or as part of a guided group, it’s an unforgettable way to connect with the land, the sea, and the stories of Aotearoa.

So lace up your boots, grab a map, and start discovering the way.

Sample Itineraries: How to Walk Te Ara Hura Your Way

While some hardy hikers complete the full 100km loop in 4–5 days, Te Ara Hura is just as rewarding in bite-sized chunks. Here are three itinerary suggestions for different types of walkers:

1-Day Explorer

Route: Oneroa → Church Bay → Cable Bay → Matiatia

• Distance: 8–10 km

• Highlights: This gentle circuit offers coastal views, vineyards, and sculpture walks. Begin in Oneroa with coffee from a beachside café, stroll through Church Bay past luxury homes, and stop at Cable Bay Vineyard for wine and lunch. End with the Matiatia Sculpture Walk—a free, world-class outdoor gallery.

Weekend Bush + Beach Combo

Route: Whakanewha Regional Park → Rocky Bay → Onetangi

• Distance: 18–20 km over 2 days

• Highlights: Camp overnight at Whakanewha (or stay in a nearby bach), and explore the forested tracks, birdwatching hides, and ancient pā sites. On Day 2, walk along the coast to Rocky Bay, then head to Onetangi for a well-earned swim and beachfront meal.

5-Day Full Circuit

Route: Start/finish in Oneroa

• Day 1: Oneroa → Palm Beach

• Day 2: Palm Beach → Onetangi

• Day 3: Onetangi → Man O’ War Bay

• Day 4: Man O’ War → Rocky Bay

• Day 5: Rocky Bay → Whakanewha → Oneroa

• Accommodation: Choose from boutique lodges, vineyards, or glamping options en route.

This experience is perfect for people wanting to combine slow travel with local culture, food, and wine. You can arrange luggage transfers with local tour companies so you walk light each day.

Seasonal Walking Tips

Summer (Dec–Feb):

• Warm and dry—perfect for coastal routes.

• Bring sunscreen, hats, and water; sections can be exposed.

• Longer daylight hours mean more time to walk and explore.

Autumn (Mar–May):

• Mild temperatures and fewer crowds make this an ideal walking season.

• Native bush turns vibrant shades of orange and gold in some areas.

Winter (Jun–Aug):

• Trails are quieter and greener. Forest Heart is especially lush.

• Wear waterproof footwear—some paths may be muddy.

• Great time to pair walks with indoor activities like wine tasting or galleries.

Spring (Sep–Nov):

• Wildflowers and native bird activity pick up—great for nature lovers.

• Moderate weather, though occasional showers are common.

Pairing Walks with Waiheke Experiences

What makes walking on Waiheke unique is the access to art, food, and wine woven into the landscape. Here are a few ways to enrich your journey:

• Wine Tasting on Foot: Vineyards like Mudbrick, Cable Bay, Stonyridge, and Te Motu are located right on or near the trail. Pre-book tastings and meals or simply walk in.

• Art and Culture: Stop by Space Gallery in Oneroa or detour to Gabriella Lewenz Gallery in Church Bay. Many walks also pass public sculpture sites and artist studios.

• Local Markets and Cafés: If your route takes you near Ostend, time it for the Saturday morning market. It’s a great way to grab snacks and interact with locals.

• Wellness Stops: Yoga classes, massage therapists, and retreats are scattered around the island. It’s not uncommon for walkers to add in a wellness session between trail days.

Responsible Walking: Protecting the Trail

As visitor numbers grow, so does the importance of walking responsibly:

• Stay on Track: Keep to marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems.

• Respect Closures: Certain areas close due to kauri dieback disease. Always check the map and signage.

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Waiheke has limited rubbish facilities along the trail. Take all waste with you.

• Leave Gates as You Found Them: Many sections pass through private farmland—respect the generosity of local landowners.

• Tiaki Promise: As a walker, you’re part of the island’s guardianship. Respect its people, stories, and natural places.

Dog-Friendly Notes

Dogs are allowed on many Te Ara Hura sections but must be on a leash in public spaces. Some coastal or bush areas may restrict access during nesting season. Always check signage and bring bags to clean up after your pup.

If you’re ready to discover the wild heart of Waiheke, Te Ara Hura awaits—offering more than just a walk, but a connection to something deeper.