Paparoa: Walkway, Riverside and Local History

Paparoa offers a range of things to make your stay memorable: walking tracks in town, a specific history of goods transport, and regional topics in the Kaipara District. When planning, you can decide whether to focus on walks, local history, or a broader view of the region.

Walking tracks in and around Paparoa

The Lion's Walkway Extension begins beside State Highway 12 in town. Its easy first section takes 20 minutes to reach the foot of the pā site. The extension then continues over a boardwalk through mangroves to Pahi Road. The track sections thus connect access to the pā site with a continuation through mangrove forest.

At the Paparoa Pa Site, an easy walking track leads through bush to the remains of the pā site. Its access point is immediately south of town. Bush and mangroves offer different landscape experiences, so when choosing a track, you can consider which landscape you would like to enjoy along the way.

Local history, riverside and local offerings

Cliff's Landing in Paparoa tells a story of goods transport. Before 1880, the site was used to unload goods brought across from Pahi, which were then pulled by horses along a wire rope to the store. The sequence from unloading to onward transport makes this place a tangible connection to local history.

The riverside has trees, picnic tables, manicured lawns and gardens. If you plan to use the picnic tables or green spaces, check their current condition before your visit. A self-guided walk to historic buildings in town offers another way to explore Paparoa's architectural history.

The Paparoa Farmers Market at the Village Green offers vegetables, fruit and local arts and crafts. The Paparoa A&P Show is another occasion: it is considered one of New Zealand's longest-running events, and the organiser has announced that the 150th show will take place on 6 February 2027. If you plan to time your trip around the show, check the event details before making plans.

More to explore in the wider Kaipara District

The wider Kaipara District offers additional nature and culture experiences. The Kai Iwi Lakes are in a 538-hectare recreation reserve with white-sand freshwater dune lakes known for their clear water. The lakes are suitable for safe swimming, kayaking, fishing, boating and waterskiing. Check water conditions and applicable safety requirements before taking part in activities.

The Kaihu Valley Trail also has a historical connection: it is part of Heartland Rides/Kauri Coast Cycleway and the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, and generally follows the former railway line between Dargaville and Donnellys Crossing. The railway was built in 1896 to support the kauri industry. The first section of the trail was officially opened on 10 June 2023. As the route may change as further sections are developed, check the current route before setting out.

At Trounson Kauri Park, forest conservation meets natural history. The 586-hectare reserve has an impressive stand of kauri trees. Since 1995, it has been managed as a mainland island to restore native biodiversity and give visitors a glimpse of original kauri forests. Threatened species living there include North Island brown kiwi, kūkupa, pekapeka bats and kauri snails.

Discover more destinations: Kaihu, Dargaville, Mangawhai, Kaiwaka, Maungaturoto, Donnellys Crossing, Baylys Beach

Back to the main travel guide: Kaipara District.