Stony Batter Historic Reserve walks
Tramping track
Getting there
Stony Batter Historic Reserve is at the eastern end of Waiheke Island. A road and walkway crosses private farmland to reach the Stony Batter Historic Reserve.
About the area
Allow 30 to 90 minutes to explore the fort. Bring a torch for the underground tunnels. Guided tours and information are available on site.
The Stony Batter Protection and Restoration Society was formed to restore the Stony Batter defence complex. To find out more about their work or how you can be involved, visit their museum and information centre at Stony Batter.
Description
To Stony Batter Historic Reserve from carpark
Time: 10 - 25 min
Stony Batter is a 10 to 25 minute walk to the tunnels from the carpark off Man O' War Bay Road. Look for direction signs.
Opopo Bay
Time: 1 hr 40 min return
Look for the sign on the right hand side of the road opposite the tunnel turnoff. Follow the wooden marker posts through the rock outcrops. The track descends through farmland and native bush to a gravel beach.
Hooks Bay
Time: 1 hr 40 min return
For this track continue along the road to the stile to the left of the gate. Follow the markers through farmland down to a gravel beach.
Matietie Walk
Time: 1 hr return
The Matietie Walk is a one hour return coastal walk through the Matietie Historic Reserve starting near the Matiatia Wharf where the passenger ferry berths, and links with other signposted public walks.
Plan and prepare
What to expect on a tramping track:
- Challenging day or multi-day tramping/hiking
- Track is mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections
- Suitable for people with good fitness. Moderate to high level backcountry skills and experience, including navigation and survival skills required
- Track has markers, poles or rock cairns. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings
- Tramping/hiking boots required