If you’re looking for a nature walk through forests, coastal trails, or beach hikes, the Western Bay has it all. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the summer, get some exercise, and appreciate the numerous walking trails available.
Here are some top recommendations for family-friendly walks:
1. Waihī Beach – Bowentown Domain: This coastal walk offers stunning views from Anzac Bay to Shelley Bay. You can enjoy harbor views, flowering pohutukawa trees, fishing spots, and safe swimming areas. Choose between a 30-minute short loop to Shelley Bay or a 75-minute loop to the headland.
2. Ōmokoroa: If you’re in the Ōmokoroa Peninsula, there are plenty of coastal walks to choose from. The Ōmokroa to Tauranga walkway and cycleway is 19km long. It’s a shared trail for walkers and cyclists, offering fantastic views of the Tauranga Harbour, wetlands, and local bird life.
3. Te Puna Quarry Park: If you love butterflies, plants, and outdoor art, you’ll enjoy the walks in Te Puna Quarry Park. The park is cared for by volunteers and offers a variety of walking tracks with beautiful views.
4. Whakamarama – Puketoki Scenic Reserve: This reserve is perfect for hot summer days, with a shady walking track through native bush and a swimming spot. Choose between a 20-minute loop track or a one-hour loop walk.
5. Kaimai Range – Aongatete: This area in the Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park offers walks through native forest and to a popular swimming hole. Walks range from 15 minutes to three and a half hours.
6. TECT Park: This park offers various walking trails and has recently won a Green Flag Award. The most popular walk is the Terenga Trail, a 3.2km medium-grade loop track.
7. Pukehina: For a beach walk, head to Pukehina. Its 10km peninsula offers a sheltered estuary on one side and a sandy beach on the other.
For more information about these walks and other trails, check out the Western Bay government website or the Bay of Plenty NZ website.
