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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: -34.99007, 173.50280. 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
- Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time
- 40 min
- Track grade
- Easiest
- Location
- Mangōnui area
- Dog access
- Dogs with a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes only. 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 walk features great views and access to a small beach - with a pa site to explore as well this easy walk is a great option for children.
This DOC directory entry covers Taumarumaru Scenic Reserve Walk in Northland, within Mangōnui 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: Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time: 40 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
Dogs with a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes only. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
Located on a steep rocky headland, Taumarumaru Reserve contains three pa sites, two on the headland (Ohumuhumu and Otanenui) and one on the central ridge (Taumarumaru).
Found within the reserve are undefended living terraces and storage pits which indicate this site was intensively occupied in pre-European times.
Taumarumaru Scenic Reserve is mostly an open area and tracks are identified by mowing and track markers. A short walk over the reserve is rewarded with great views and access to a small beach.
The reserve provides ideal opportunities for walking, fishing and historic appreciation. Dogs are allowed in the reserve provided they are on a lead at all times.
Combine this visit with a trip to nearby historic Rangikapiti Pa.
Getting there
Taumarumaru Reserve is located in Doubtless Bay on the east coast of the Far North.
It is about 35 km northeast of Kaitaia. From Kataitai head north on SH1 to Awanui, then turn right onto SH10. The reserve is signposted on SH10 between Cable Bay and Coopers Beach.
Know before you go
Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
In winter conditions sections of the track can become muddy and slippery.
Fires and camping are not permitted in the reserve.
Northland reserve bylaws apply to Taumarumaru Recreation Reserve.
History and culture
Many places in New Zealand have special spiritual or historical significance. Some places are sacred to Maori, while others have important European values.
Recognise the spiritual or historical significance of these places and treat them with respect. Learning about places you visit will help you understand and respect the value they hold for others.
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 published in DOC's official route gallery with an explicit reuse licence. Its original caption and credit are retained; it does not establish current track conditions.
