Walking and Hiking

From Raglan, a number of walks and hikes give you wonderful views of the coastline and take you through splendid native bush. The closest and easiest is from the township itself through Wainui Reserve to gorgeous Ocean (Ngarunui) Beach. You can climb above coastal bluffs to a lookout point and enjoy the drama of the kite surfers at play, or follow the beach for 6 km (4 miles), except during high spring tides. Ask for a brochure at the Raglan i-SITE Visitor Information Centre. Don't leave valuables in your vehicle while you're away walking.

Mt. Karioi. The trek up Mt. Karioi is significantly more difficult than the Waireinga/Bridal Veil Falls trail. Some sections are quite steep, so good walking gear and a positive attitude are required; fantastic views of the coast, however, make the challenge worthwhile. The Mt. Karioi Track, from Te Toto Gorge at Whaanga Road, climbs to a lookout and then the summit (3–3½ hours one-way). Wairake Track, from Karioi Road, is a shorter, steeper summit option (2–3 hours one-way).

Waireinga/Bridal Veil Falls. A 15-minute shaded hike from the parking lot leads through native forest to the spectacle of the falls. Two viewing platforms are poised near the top of the 150-foot drop. This section of trail is wheelchair accessible. Another much steeper track continues to a midway-viewing platform; from there a 10-minute trail descends to a bridge and viewing platform at the base of the falls. The tall trees and the sight of the water cascading over the hard basalt cliff justify the effort required for the return climb. The falls are 20 km (12 miles) south of Raglan via the Kawhia road. www.doc.govt.nz.

The Department of Conservation. This department manages trails and surrounding conservation land. The Raglan i-SITE Visitor Information Centre can also provide maps. 07/858–1000.