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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: -36.71867, 175.81914. 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 km return via same track
- Walking time
- 1 hr return
- Track grade
- Easiest
- Location
- Whangapoua and Matarangi area
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
Enjoy the stunning views of the Mercury Islands from the pā site at the top of the Opito Point Historic Reserve.
This DOC directory entry covers Opito Point Pā Walk in Waikato, within Whangapoua and Matarangi 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: 1 km return via same track
- Walking time: 1 hr return
- 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.
Description
From the end of Opito Bay Road walk east along the beach. Ascend the 196 steps up Opito Point to the pā where you get sensational views of the Mercury Islands.
Getting there
From Kūaotunu village follow Black Jack Road past Otama Beach. Continue along the gravel road another 20 minutes to get to Opito Bay. Park at the end of Opito Bay Road.
Know before you go
Stairs have no handrails.
There is a non-flushing public toilet at the carpark.
Freedom camping is not allowed in this area.
Check the tides. High tide makes the beach access difficult.
Dog access changes seasonally – follow the council signs that are on the beach and accessways to the beach.
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.
