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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: -36.10160, 174.20591. 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
- 300 m loop
- Walking time
- 15 min
- Track grade
- Easiest
- Location
- Dargaville area
- Dog access
- No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
This short kauri forest walk is gentle, making it suitable for children and an easy opportunity to enjoy the unique kauri forest environment.
This DOC directory entry covers Kauri Bushman's Walk in Northland, within Dargaville area. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: 300 m loop
- Walking time: 15 min
- DOC grade: Easiest
Access and alerts
Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.
Dog access
No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Getting there
The track is part of Kauri Bushman's Memorial Scenic Reserve, between Matakohe and Paparoa, south of Whangarei.
From Matakohe travel east about 5 km along SH12 and turn left onto Wearmouth Road, then left into Sterling Road. The track starts approximately 1 km along Sterling Road on the left.
Know before you go
No domestic pets are allowed on this track.
Hunting by permit only. You can get a permit free of charge from the Kauri Coast Office.
Safety
- In strong winds, beware of falling branches.
Sources and reuse
Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.
The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.
