Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

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Mahinepua Peninsula Track

Kerikeri, Northland

Submitted by Andre Chalmers

Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Beginner

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I've done it Done

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Open

Grunt Factor: 9 ?

Gnarl Factor: 28 ?

4.8km

Length of run

270m

Total Ascent

270m

Total Descent

78m

Highest point

Driving Time

Driving Distance

Directions to start

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Type of Run

Front country - easily accessible

Combo

Undulating, small hills only

Native bush

Plantation/exotic forest

Beach

Coastal

Run Makeup

75%

20%

Farm Road / 4WD Track

Easy Single Track

Moderate Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +13.9%

Average Downhill Gradient: -13.4%

Trailhead

Estimated Times to Run

0:45

Slow

0:30

Moderate

0:20

Fast

GPX File

Topo Map

3D Satellite

Guide

Northland is a chilled out place. So the best way to enjoy it is to chill on the beach with a BBQ or picnic then hit this trail for a some unreal views of the Bay of Islands and get your heart pumping for a few minutes, then take a plunge in the warm sea in this spectacular bay. There is a loop at the end of the peninsula so you can choose which direction to go in, take time to stop and take in the view.

You are unlikely to get into trouble on this one but if you are a complete newbie take a mate, if you are advanced take the opportunity to go off track and explore some of the sweet as beaches.

There are numerous little trails to check out around this region, if the Mahinepua Track is too short for you drive down the road and check out the St Paul's Rock Track in Whangaroa.

My rating is based on the fact it is a lot of effort for a short trail...hence the emphasis on other activities.

Look out for the rare native mistletoe. The bays surround you and on a lucky day you may see whales or dolphins!

Transport and parking:

No public transport you will need to drive there, ample parking is near the Cavalli Beach house and track start.

Distance from Kerikeri:

43 km

Driving time from Kerikeri:

42 minutes

Dog friendly:

Unknown

Landowner permission required:

Navigation Rating:

Moderate.

Navigation Tips:

Keep to the formed track, there is for example some roads near the start that might confuse you. The signage is ample so read them!

Cellphone Coverage:

Generally good.

Suggested Gear List:

Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Windproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map

Availability of Water:

Very little drinking water available on anywhere on the track.

Seasonality Issues:

Runnable all year round, the main issues to think about are wind as it is coastal and rain as it is quite exposed. Rain may make some sections muddy and slippery.

Hazards:

There are a couple of places where there are steep drop offs especially at the end of the peninsula, obviously be careful around these areas.
This location is a long way from the nearest town so although it is short and sharp make sure you take ample supplies.

Spice Grill Indian Restaurant
20 Leigh St, Kaeo, New Zealand
https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/Restaurant_Review-g659575-d7283506-Reviews-Spice_Grill-Kaeo_Northland_Region_North_Island.html
For a wicked curry and it's probably the closest town to your run head to this place, awesome value.

Food at Wharepuke Restaurant
190 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri 0230, New Zealand
http://www.foodatwharepuke.co.nz/
Your probably staying at Kerikeri during your Northland stay since it's such a cool place, I love palm trees so head to this joint for a great meal.

Trail Legend