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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: -36.05858, 173.97606. 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
- 20 min one way
- Track grade
- Easy
- Location
- Dargaville 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
Climb to the top of Tokatoka and enjoy the stunning 360-degree views.
This DOC directory entry covers Tokatoka Scenic Reserve Track 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: Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time: 20 min one way
- DOC grade: Easy
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
The track climbs steadily to the top of Tokatoka, a very distinctive landmark in the Kaipara district. Note, there is a particularly steep 20 m section near the top.
From the top, the 360-degree views are stunning. You'll get great views towards Dargaville and of the Kaipara. On a clear day, you're able to see Bream Head and the Tangihua range towards the east.
Getting there
The turn off to this reserve is on Tokotoka Road, 17 km south of Dargaville on SH 12 at the Tokatoka Tavern. The reserve entrance sign is on your left-hand side near the top of the hill.
Know before you go
This is a very exposed area; with a steep ascent over rocks.
Take extreme caution at the top as the drop off is steep and there are no handrails, especially if you suffer from vertigo or are scared of heights.
Supervise children at all times.
The track becomes very slippery after rain. Take extreme care.
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.
