Full circuit includes two ferry journeys.
This is a full circle walk with many options for where to start and end.
Wind through coastal beaches and mangroves in this full-day walking circuit encompassing Paihia, Opua, Okiato and Russell using ferry links. On this walk, you'll have the chance to enjoy native flora and fauna, historic sites and rare native birds.
Route options
Starting from Paihia's quaint town centre, this easy walk takes you along the main beach onto a well-established coastal track. Take in the views across the channel to the Russell peninsula before finishing in Opua, where there is a general store beside the car/passenger ferry. You can finish your walk here and arrange a pick-up or continue on across the water.
Board the ferry to Okiato, where you can join a well-formed track that crosses wetland flats, forest and a waterfront boardwalk before joining the roadside. End at historic Russell, where you can catch the passenger ferry back to Paihia.
Getting there
For a map of the circuit walkway see Bay of Islands Walkways(opens in new window).
Need to know
There are steps on the Okiato to Russell walkway so a good level of fitness is required.
