Description

Straight off the first ferry of the day turn right and then right again onto the single track path about 400m in. Here you traverse lava flows and then head into the bush for a while until emerging at Islington Bay. Follow the coast to the Motutapu bridge, then if you've timed it right head across the low tide sand to the start of the untracked section. Here scramble over, around and through the wild lava formations, past Wreck Bay and follow around until finally you will see Takapuna, and eventually the lighthouse near MacKenzie Bay.

Then its the easiest section on gravel roads back to the wharf, which is good because you may be rushing for that last 4pm ferry. Between the first and last ferry you have 6hrs which should be enough time, but keeps the pressure on a bit to make it fruity!

Features of interest

Awesome volcanic rock landscape, wild lava formations on the northern un-tracked section. Worlds largest Puhutakawa forest, native birds including Saddlebacks. Historic Baches from the 1930's of which about 28 remain

Make Up of Run

Untracked / Route only: 50%

Technical Single Track: 25%

Gravel Road: 25%

Route Data