Last Updated: 5th Nov 2024
Ōkari Out & Back
Kawatiri Coastal Trail
Submitted by Stewie Stuart
Last Updated: 5th Nov 2024
Open
Grunt Factor: 15 ?
Gnarl Factor: 14 ?
12.9km
305m
305m
Last Updated: 5th Nov 2024
Submitted by Stewie Stuart
Last Updated: 5th Nov 2024
Open
Grunt Factor: 15 ?
Gnarl Factor: 14 ?
12.9km
305m
305m
Front country - easily accessible
Out and Back
Undulating, small hills only
Native bush
Beach
Coastal
Riverside
Open farmlands
Easy Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +4.7%
Average Downhill Gradient: -4.7%
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2:30
Slow
1:45
Moderate
1:15
Fast
This out and back can be done in either direction in the future, however note that currently, there is no parking allowed where the trail turns at Virgin Flat Road.
Starting at the carpark head eastwards towards the hills along the well marked, Kawatiri Coastal Trail. Initially passing a wetland area rich in birdlife, the trail then gently rises onto an elevated terrace of park-like farmland with stunning, panoramic views of the Tasman Sea and Paparoa Range.
Leaving the farmland area, the trail meanders down through native forest until you reach the Ōkari River. Here, the trail runs adjacent to the river through the lush native forest abundant with birdlife that includes a remnant population of roroa or great spotted kiwi.
Trail users will cross the impressive Ōkari River suspension bridge and continue on through Pamu farmland before heading uphill where the landscape changes again, winding its way through fascinating pakihi country. Turn around where the end of the current trail meets virgin flat road and enjoy the scenery in the other direction.
Private landowners, Brownlee Farms and Pãmu Farms have generously allowed the Kawatiri Coastal Trail to traverse parts of their privately owned land. Please be respectful of this access by ensuring you stay on the trail when going through the farmland and that you do not bring dogs on the trail with you due to the presents of great spotted kiwi residing in the bush.
Birdlife, Lush Native Forest, Pakihi Country and the Ōkari Swing Bridge.
Toilets are available in Tauranga Bay off Ninemile Beach Road or at the Carpark at the Cape Foulwind Seal Colony.
There is a large unmarked carpark off Ōkari Road with plenty of spaces. Currently, it is not recommended to do the out and back from Virgin Flat Road as there is no carpark area.
8 km
11 minutes
No
No
Easy.
Very patchy.
Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries
Whilst there is water along the way namely at the Ōkari River and 5km in from a waterfall, it is recommended that you bring your own source due to possible contamination from dairy workings in the area or bring a water filter.
This is a cycle trail with many blind corners and hairpin bends so please be on the lookout to give way to them. Because of this, it is recommended to not wear in ear headphones.
Donaldos Beach Bar & Takeaways
23 Marine Parade, Carters Beach
https://donaldoscafe.co.nz/
Relaxed dining and family friendly atmosphere with takeaway options just meters from the beach.
Freckles Cafe
216 Palmerston Street, Westport
https://www.facebook.com/p/Freckles-Cafe-100057034526729/
A local favorite. Has the best mince pasties and some of the best coffees in town.
Whanake Gallery & Espresso Bar
173 Palmerston Street
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063531127586
Real Fruit Icecreams, Coffee & Art.
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Ōkari Out & Back
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These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.
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