Mitchells Meander

Note: DOC have removed the bridge closest to Carew Bay Beach, so unless the lake is really really low you are most likely going to get wet up to your waist at least.

Start from the boat ramp, where there are views across Lake Moana to Mt Te Kinga and Moana settlement. Follow the track marked Bain Bay.

Initially this winds through over-head-height flax on a mix of board walk and sandy trails, generally following the lake edge. Cross two wooden bridges then follow the beach around until you see the orange triangle marking where the track enters the bush. From here it winds through beautiful lush rainforest, before popping out on the beach at Bain Bay after about three kilometres.

Here you can choose to run along the shingle beach or duck back into the bush for the last 500m to the picnic area at the end of the bay. There are old logging implements lying around, and you can see the posts from an old L-shaped wharf. From the end of the bay there is a rough farm track that you can follow for 500m for open views across farmland. Turn around and head back the way you came.

When you get back to the boat ramp, head up towards the road then turn left across the one-lane bridge. After about 200m you will see the Carew Falls track on your right. This climbs steadily through more rain forest for about one kilometre, bringing you out at the bottom of the 30m falls, where there is a stunning swimming hole to cool down in. When you've had your fill, head back down the same track and back to the start point.