Herekino Forest Track

Located in Herekino Forest in the Northland region

The 15 km Herekino Forest Track passes through forest that is home to many rare and threatened species including the North Island brown kiwi, long-tailed bat and kauri snail.

Trampers on the Herekino Forest Track pass through a magnificent stand of mature kauri

The first part of the track is a quite steep climb through a mature broadleaf/podocarp forest. Along the track, you will encounter magnificent kauri stands.

Early in the morning, on a clear day, you can get beautiful views of the Aupōuri Peninsula, Karikari, Doubtless bay and Rangaunu Harbour.

Herekino Forest is located south-east of Kaitaia.

You can access the track from Awaroa Road, at the Herekino Gorge summit, known as Te Arai. Alternative access is from Veza Rd Takahue.

Track map.

  • Trampers need to be fit and self sufficient.
  • Carry water as streams along the way can dry up over summer.
  • Take insect repellent and food.

For more information on the Herekino Forest Tracks check out the Te Araroa website.

At the entrance of the walking track stand a pouwhenua with its six guardian pou. These were erected by local iwi Te Rarawa, as the kaitiaki (guardians) of the forest. The pou signify the importance and the good spirit of the track.

The track was opened in April 2003, Prime Minister Helen Clark and Conservation Minister Chris Carter. It forms part of the the Te Araroa Trail. The trail connects places such as Herekino and Te Arai, which are rich in the history and the character of the people who have lived there for generations.