Shifts the focus to the harbour side of our stunning peninsula, with options to climb the landmark Mount Manaia, its smaller cousin Mount Aubrey or stroll along well formed paths at altitudes closer to sea level.
Option one: Mt Manaia
Start from the Settlers Monument at the top of the hill between Taurikura and McLeod Bay. After admiring the spectacular view follow the signs to the Mount Manaia track. A moderate level of fitness is required for this 3.5 km return walk. The track is well formed and marked but the natural rock lookouts have no safety barriers, so take care and stay away from the drop-offs. This track has recently been upgraded and is gravelled and stepped with a couple of bridges. This walk will take approximately 2 – 2.5 hours return.
Option two: Marine Reserve loop
From the Settlers Monument turn left into Bay View Road and head down to the beach. Turn right to follow the track around the point past the marine reserve and the old freezing works ruins to Reotahi. Keep following the road up the hill and around the side of Mount Aubrey, turn right at the store and you have completed a loop. This is an easy walk that will take approximately 45 minutes.
Option three: Mt Aubrey
From the Settlers Monument turn left into Bay View Road and head down to the beach. Turn right to follow the track, a few minutes along turn right – this is signposted – to climb Mount Aubrey. This is well formed with paths and stairs; it will take approximately one hour to get to the top and down the other side to Tiller Park. Turn right to the store and right again to get back to the Monument. This will take approximately 1.5 hours.
Since 2010 both the Mt Aubrey tracks have been affected by slips - ask for an update when you are here.
Some people choose to drive their own cars to the start of this day's walk and then continue on their homeward journey. Otherwise, we are happy to drop off and pick up as you require it, but if we are expecting a new group of walkers that afternoon we ask that you leave the lodge by 2 pm.
