Kohekohe Walk: Walking Guide, Time & Access

A short formed path in Waikanae's Hemi Matenga reserve linking Tui Crescent and Kakariki Grove, separate from the more challenging hill tracks.

Pick an entrance before setting out

The main Hemi Matenga entrance is at Tui Crescent beside a small parking area near the reservoir. The Kohekohe path also has a signed entrance from Kakariki Grove. Agree which entrance is your meeting point and whether everybody is returning there. DOC's headline time is a return allowance, even though the description explains that the path links two streets. Do not quietly convert the entry into a one-way transfer without arranging the other end.

Keep to the short named path

DOC describes Kohekohe as well formed and suitable for a broad range of walkers. It is a useful choice when the aim is a contained forest outing rather than a hill climb. At junctions, check the route name instead of following whichever branch looks busier. Parata and Te Au provide more challenging connections, and their demands are not covered by this short-walk grade. Let slower walkers enjoy the same route without pressure to add a summit destination.

Leave time for a quiet return

No source-checked distance is listed here; the published walking time is the better starting point for planning. Add your own margin for resting and returning to the correct street entrance. Keep dogs on a lead and avoid blocking the path while stopping to talk or take photographs. Carry water and a layer appropriate to the weather, even for a brief visit. Before departure, review DOC's notices and choose a longer walk only after checking its separate route information.

Read the official track description and notices immediately before travelling. The source-check date is not a live access or safety report.