Whakamarama

Whakamarama is a suitable search destination if the Ngamarama/Te Tuhi Track or the Pā-Kererū Loop is central to your travel plans. The Ngamarama/Te Tuhi Track begins at the end of Whakamarama Road, north of Tauranga on SH2.

Hiking in Whakamarama

The Ngamarama/Te Tuhi Track is a challenging east–west traverse of the Kaimai Ranges, with stream crossings and historic tramways. It also provides access to overnight hikes via the North–South Track. If an overnight hike is part of your plans, access via the North–South Track matters; when choosing the hike itself, its character is shaped by the challenging traverse, stream crossings and historic tramways. Conditions can vary, so check the latest information from the Department of Conservation before setting out.

The Pā-Kererū Loop is also located at the end of Whakamārama Road. In a 2024 community update, Friends of the Blade reported maintaining trap lines across about 250 hectares of regenerating native bush around the loop; conservation coverage may continue to develop. The approximate area gives the subject its own sense of landscape scale: this is not only about the route, but also about conservation work in native bush.

In the wider Western Bay of Plenty District

Destinations in the wider Western Bay of Plenty District have different focuses: Katikati is known for art and culinary experiences, while the Orokawa Bay Walk leads to a coastal destination.

The loop in Katikati Town Centre runs from Haiku Park along paths where haiku poems are engraved in rocks and paving. It follows Uretara Stream, crosses a footbridge to Uretara Landing, then continues along the main road to murals and other artworks in the town centre. The loop thus moves from engraved poetry to artworks along the route and in the town centre.

The Katikati Cuisine Trail adds a culinary experience to this focus: visitors can meet local artisan food producers and sample their products on site. Individual producers and offerings may change, so check what is currently available if you are planning a visit.

Another route in the wider district is the Orokawa Bay Walk. It begins at the northern end of Waihī Beach and follows the coastal headlands to Orokawa Bay. The walk takes about 45 minutes each way. Along the way, the track passes through dense bush with pōhutukawa, kauri and puriri trees, as well as native nikau palms; the bay is part of a 145-hectare scenic reserve. Tides and swell affect access to the bay. Check these conditions before setting out, as they are important when assessing the walk in practical terms.

Discover more destinations: Lower Kaimai, Aongatete, Katikati, Waihi Beach, Te Puke, Athenree, Paengaroa, Papamoa

For the wider travel overview: Western Bay of Plenty District.