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Location & access
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route. Check the official route directions before travel.
Official location informationLocation source
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route.
Reference point: -35.19224, 174.04527. WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
DOC Maps walking and tramping reference point (WGS84), exact official-page GUID / Department of Conservation. Checked 2026-10-12.
Key facts
- Distance
- 1.4 km return via same track
- Walking time
- 15-30 min one way
- Track grade
- Easy to intermediate walking track
Checked against official sources on 26 September 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
A short stepped headland walk from Opito Bay with signed choices towards Tareha pa and sheltered coastal viewpoints.
Find the signed entrance
Start at the boat-ramp end of Opito Bay, northeast of Kerikeri. The reserve entrance uses a signed right-of-way between houses, so identify the sign before setting off rather than following a convenient-looking driveway. DOC's reserve page locates it near the Ake Ake Road corner. Respect neighbours while preparing for the walk, and keep the group together through the entrance. Make the boat ramp your agreed meeting point if people choose different branches later.
Choose a branch deliberately
Steps lead to a four-way junction. The choices include Lizzie Bay, the Tareha pa viewpoint, and a western lookout route that eventually meets a shared driveway and Opito Bay Road. The headline distance describes a same-track return, while the published times are one way. Do not add every branch and still budget the shortest time. Photograph the junction sign and decide whether the group wants an out-and-back or the signed road-return option before separating.
Walk a historic headland
The reserve protects a fortified pa, including defensive earthworks and former house platforms, within regenerating bush. Look from the path without climbing onto archaeological features. This is also a kiwi area supported by community pest control; leave traps undisturbed and do not bring a dog. The short approach should not obscure the cliff exposure. Keep children beside an adult and avoid informal paths towards a better photograph. Allow a pause at a safe viewpoint, then retain enough time and energy for the steps back. A swim or picnic is a separate decision and is not included in the walking estimate.
Read the official track description and notices immediately before travelling. The source-check date is not a live access or safety report.
