AusLeisure

Auckland Council has opened a multi-day kayak trail at Tawhitokino Regional Park on the city's south-eastern coast.

Te Ara Moana the seagoing pathway, takes kayakers from Omana Regional Park near Maraetai to Waharau Regional Park in the foothills of the Hunua Ranges near Kaiaua with camping options at purpose-built campgrounds along the way.

The idea of creating a southern kayak trail was first explored six years ago and has included researching demand for sea kayaking in the Auckland region, selecting a suitable route and planning the infrastructure to support it.

Councillor Sandra Coney, Chair of the Parks, Recreation and Heritage Forum, has been a supporter of the concept from the outset and is pleased to see this well-planned trail becoming a reality.

Introducing the trail, Councillor Coney explained "just like the Hillary Trail for trampers on our west coast, Te Ara Moana offers people a multi-day adventure and a wonderful character-building outdoors experience.

"We are also delighted to include Waitawa Regional Park in the trail. This park is not yet open to the public but we have arranged limited access, just for kayakers, to the bay.

"We hope that Te Ara Moana will be the start of a network of kayak trails around the region; joining up public open space and getting more people into our parks."

Opening the trail, Auckland Mayor Len Brown stated "we are delighted to open up another opportunity for families and groups to get out, get active and explore our stunning coastline this time, from the water.

"Te Ara Moana follows the traditional sea-going trails of mana whenua and we acknowledge the support of Ngai Tai, Ngati Paoa and Ngati Whaunaunga in sharing this experience with the public."

The self-guided trail starts at Omana Regional Park, where kayakers can spend a night or just launch from the park or boat ramp. It continues to Duder Regional Park, Waitawa Regional Park, Tawhitokino Regional Park and Tapapakanga Regional Park, finishing at Waharau Regional Park.

Backing the trail, purpose-built campgrounds have been built at Duder, Waitawa and Tapapakanga and a new shelter has been added at the back-country campground at Tawhitokino.

The trail takes five days (four nights) and is 51 kilometres long.

Auckland Council advises kayakers to plan their trip carefully, to check tides and weather forecasts before setting out, prepare equipment thoroughly and ensure they have left details of their journey with family or friends.

A checklist, Te Ara Moana care code and kayak safety code is available on the trail brochure and on the Auckland Regional Council website at www.regionalparks.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/articles/te-ara-moana-the-sea-going-pathway

Image: Canoeing at Hunua Falls. 

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