Cape Reinga Coastal Walk
Also known as: Te Rerenga Wairua
Cape Reinga - the sacred northern tip where the Tasman and Pacific meet, the lighthouse and Te Paki dunes
The route
The line through Northland, New Zealand - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Season & conditions
Year-round
Wind, sun, exposed coast
Open year-round; hot and exposed in summer. Confirm.
On the trail
Coastal cliff paths, the lighthouse point and giant dunes
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Accessible to most walkers and families; not fully wheelchair accessible - confirm
Popular
Lighthouse walk only; longer Te Werahi/Cape Maria loops; part of Te Araroa
Getting there & staying
Cape Reinga car park (far north)
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Day route - none needed
Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies
Services in Kaitaia; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
No permit; a spiritually significant place to Maori (Te Rerenga Wairua) - be respectful; no food at the lighthouse
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Sun/wind, soft dunes, tides on beach sections
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.