Waikare Connection - by Road Bypass
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Walking
Waikare Connection
Two options exist to negotiate the Waikare Inlet through to the East end of the Russell Forest Track - by water or by road.
The Russell Forest Track has been removed from Te Araroa following consultation with local iwi. The routes described lead to the eastern end of Papakauri Road, near km 286.
There is also the option to ferry from Paihia to Russell (and a chance to explore some of New Zealand's history in Russell), and take the Russell to Okiato walkway until you get to the Gas station at the junction of Aucks road. Alternatively, connect with Sheryl Wikaere and travel with her to Waikare - (there will be a cost involved and this is unsuitable for bigger groups).
Road
From Opua, take the vehicular ferry over the Veronica Channel to Okiato. From there, follow Aucks Rd for 4.5km to its junction to the Russell-Whakapara Rd. Continue east into Russell-Whakapara Rd for 14 km.
From the junction with Waikare Road (km 268), where walkers who have taken the kayak option via Waikare will join your route, continue east on Russell-Whakapara, which later becomes Russell Road, for 18 km to pass the end of Papakauri Road (km 286)
If you want a more relaxing route between exiting the ferry and joining with the Russell-Whakapara Rd, then turn left into Pipiroa Rd soon after leaving the ferry and link to the “Okiato to Russell Walkway”. This goes through wetland, bush, and around cliffs to rejoin Aucks Rd just before its junction with the Russell-Whakapara Rd. It is several kilometres longer than walking directly through to the Russell-Whakapara Rd on Aucks Rd, but does take you off-road and is a good coastal meander if you have time.
Conditions
Vehicles on road or track If kayaking, be alert for other water users
- Poisons & traps
- Small stream crossings
- Track exposed to sun, wind or cold
How to get here
Northern Start: Opua Wharf, Opua, Bay of Islands
Southern End: Waikare
Transport
Accommodation
Russell Outback Eco Retreat - Near the corner of Russell Whakapara Road and Paroa Bay Rd, 11 km from Okiato. 17 Paroa Bay Road. We have one cabin to let out which can sleep 6 people, with self contained kitchen, outdoor fire and bathroom. The cost is $120 / night and they would need to contact us in advance to book in. Call or text Clair on 021 558 514
The Farm, a friendly camping place at km 281.3
Food And Supply
Track Elevation and Map
Total 1 photos. Click image above to view them all.
More information
Page last updated: Oct 23, 2023, 5:03 PM