If you’re looking to explore some trails within a beautiful region of New Zealand, I highly recommend adding some Northland hikes to your list. Located just above Auckland, Northland offers an array of trails that showcase some of the North Island’s most incredible views.
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From short hikes lasting a couple of hours to full-day treks and even one of my favourite multi-day adventures, the five trails below offer something for everyone.
MOUNT MANAIA
Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
Length: 3.9km | 2.5 miles
Elevation: 340m
Difficulty: Medium
Open: Year-round
Type: Out-and-back
Need to have: Water, sun protection and snacks.
Mount Manaia is located in Whangārei Heads just over 30 minutes (30km) from Whangārei. It’s one of the shorter hikes in this post as it is roughy 45 minutes one way but still sits 420 meters above sea level, so plenty of swoon-worthy views.
I’ve personally hiked this well-maintained path twice now, and both times were well worth it. Sunrise was wonderful for its peace and quiet, but sunset was definitely my favourite as watching the sun dip over Whangārei Harbour, casting an incredible glow, was pretty incredible.
There is also plenty to do in and around Whangārei Heads. The well-known Beam Head Track is nearby and there is also other activities like kayaking and enjoying some of the local fish and chips.
To make your visit even better overall, I’ve gathered some more information on Mount Manaia. Here you’ll find plenty of tips, including the best parking spots and nearby accommodation options.
DUKES NOSE LOOKOUT
Duration: 5-6 hours
Length: 10.8km | 6.7 miles
Elevation: 518m
Difficulty: Moderate
Open: Year-round
Type: Out-and-back
Need to have: Water, food and sun protection. If staying overnight in the hut, you will then need an overnight pack with all the essentials and spare clothes.
A few years later and Dukes Nose is still one of my favourite Northland hikes.
Located just a short 40-minute drive from Whāngarei, you’ll find yourself immersed in native New Zealand bush. The hike involves a gentle climb for most of the way, but don’t underestimate it – the duration and the final ascent can be quite brutal. Using a handrail to get to the top is the only way to reach the summit. Undoubtedly if you’re on the shorter side like me, a little help from a taller buddy doesn’t hurt. But it’s well worth it once you get to the summit as you’ll have stunning 360 views of Waitepipi, Te Were, Pekapeka Bays and beyond.
If you would like to make this an overnight hike, there is also the option of staying at Lane Cove Hut. It’s roughly a 30 to 45 minute walk to the lookout from here.
I can also highly recommend sunrise. For more on this hike click here.
CAPE BRETT
Duration: 11-12 hours
Length: 30.3km
Elevation: 1791m
Difficulty: Difficult
Open: Year-round
Type: Out-and-back
Need to have: An overnight pack with all of your essentials. Plenty of water, food, sun protection, spare clothes and a walking permit (explained below).
Cape Brett is probably the most difficult of the Northland hikes in this post.
Don’t get me wrong, the journey is stunning. You’ll find yourself immersed in unquestionably some of the lushest forest with incredible lookouts across the Bay of Islands. But in terms of the track, Cape Brett is considered ‘advanced’ and in my experience, this isn’t due to its length but for its challenging terrain. There are a lot of up-and-downhill sections and we also hiked this route shortly after rain so many sections were quite muddy.
However once at the lighthouse or if you opt to stay in the local hut, it’s definitely worth the slog, with incredible views along the coast.
One last tip is that it is essential to obtain a walkway permit before hiking Cape Brett. However, if you’re entering from Deepwater Cove a permit isn’t required.
For more tips I’ve written all about my experience here.
WHĀNGAREI FALLS HATEA WALKWAY TRACK
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Length: 4.8 km | 3 miles
Elevation: 145m
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Loop + There and Back
Open: Year-round
Whāngarei Falls is definitely the easiest of the Northland hikes on this list.
This incredible waterfall stands at 26 meters high and is just minutes outside of Whāngarei town centre. There are many spot to take in the views but from the base is my favourite, as it really gives you a sense of the waterfall’s impressive scale.
Whāngarei Falls in its most basic form is a loop track but if you’d like to extend your walk, you can also explore the Whāngarei Falls Scenic Reserve. Following the same loop, it also includes the Hātea Walkway, a there-and-back track to A.H Reed Memorial Kauri Park.
Being in central Whāngarei also means that you have access to many other walks and activities so it’s a great one to have on the list.
Additionally, if you’re needing any more info, I have everything you need to know here.
ST PAULS ROCK
Duration: 30 mins
Length: 1.1 km | 0.7 miles
Elevation: 100m
Difficulty: Medium
Type: Out-and-back
Open: Year-round
St Paul’s Rock is a unique natural rock formation located about 40 minutes from Kerikeri.
The trail to St Pauls Rock is relatively easy. It generally only takes roughly 20 minutes to get to the top and the views from the summit look out over the surrounding coastline and countryside. However there is a small section where chains are required to get to the top. Don’t worry, if I can do it, so can you.
Additionally, if you have a drone, St. Pauls Rock is also a great spot to take flight. The views from the top are even more incredible with a bit of elevation.
A small tip: If you are looking for scenery that is similar to Dukes Nose that doesn’t require such a long hike, St Pauls Rock is your best alternative. However, if you want to know more I have a comprehensive blog post here.
In this blog post, we’ve explored some of the best Northland hikes, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking views. Not only the serene sunrise at Mount Manaia but also the challenging terrain of Cape Brett, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a short hike or a multi-day adventure, these trails will not disappoint. Remember to check the provided links for more detailed information on each hike. Happy hiking!