Come up for epic adventures

36°4'52.744''S 174°35'56.036''E

Mangawhai Heads Beach

Adventures from east coast to west

Kaipara is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering everything from serene coastal escapes to thrilling wilderness adventures. Hike the breathtaking Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway for panoramic ocean views, explore the giant sand dunes of Pouto Peninsula, or kayak along the tranquil Kaipara Harbour. Fishing and boating enthusiasts will find endless opportunities on the water, while cyclists can take on scenic rural trails. There’s something for everyone in the adventure paradise of Kaipara.

A coastal landscape with trees on a green hillside overlooking a sandy beach and blue ocean under a partly cloudy sky.

Cliff Top Walks

The district’s cliff-top walks, like the stunning Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway, offer endless ocean views, dramatic coastal landscapes, and lush native bush. Perfect for nature lovers seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Group of people biking on a suspension bridge over a marshy area with water and tall grass, under a clear blue sky.

Kaihu Valley Trail

The Kaihu Valley Trail is a scenic 40km cycling and walking track following the historic rail corridor from Dargaville to Donnellys Crossing. Winding through lush farmland, native bush, and alongside the Kaihu River, it offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-track adventure in Kaipara.

A couple sitting on a grassy hilltop overlooking a fog-covered landscape with rolling hills and water in the distance.

Tokatoka Summit Walk

For a breathtaking start to your day, head to Tokatoka Peak and race to the summit for sunrise. This ancient volcanic cone offers a short but steep hike, rewarding climbers with awe inspiring 360-degree views of the vast surrounding landscape that was once dominated by majestic Kauri.

Two people paddling a kayak on a large body of water under a blue sky with scattered clouds, with tree-covered hills in the background.

Kaipara Harbour Kayak

Glide across the vast, tranquil waters of Kaipara Harbour by kayak, exploring hidden inlets, mangrove forests, and rich birdlife. Paddle out at sunrise or sunset and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of this unique coastal paradise, and enjoy a truly magical experience on the water.

Mangawhai Boat Ramp at high tide. There are three boats docked at the ramp, with people standing nearby. A man walks his small dog on a leash along the foreshore.

Bream Bay Fishing

Start your fishing adventure at sunrise from the Mangawhai boat ramp, and glide across the bar into Bream Bay’s sparkling waters. Chase snapper, kingfish, and kahawai as the sun paints the horizon with stunning pinks and bright oranges as a new day dawns. Look out for gannets, dolphins and whales as you explore the beautiful islands that pepper the bay. Epic!

Surrounded by kauri trees, looking up through the tree canapy to the sky. A large kauri is the centre focus of the image.

Trounson Kauri Park Adventure

Wander through the enchanting Trounson Kauri Park, where majestic kauri giants reach proudly for the skies amidst a symphony of native birdsong. By day, marvel at the ancient kauri canopy; by night, tread quietly and you might catch a glimpse of elusive kiwi under magical starlit skies.

A white lighthouse with a red top on a sandy coastal area with windswept dunes and dark storm clouds in the background over the ocean.

West Coast Roadie

Start your day at the northern mouth of the Kaipara harbour and capture the perfect pic of the Pouto lighthouse. Meander north on epic unsealed roads and make your way to the wild west coast beaches where you’ll be able to cruise along the shores on nature’s highway. Head inland and take a dip in the turquoise waters of Kai Iwi Lakes before finishing your day with a well earned feed in historical Dargaville. We promise it’ll be a day you’ll never forget.