Summer Overnighters

URUPUKAPUKA ISLAND RECREATION RESERVE, NORTHLAND

DISTANCE 5KM TIME 2.5–3HR GRADE EASY

BY SHAUN BARNETT

Once farmed, Urupukapuka is now a bird sanctuary where the rare New Zealand dotterel can be seen.

There are regular ferry services from Paihia landing at Otehei Bay. Alternatively, competent sea kayakers can reach Urupukapuka across relatively sheltered waters from Rawhiti. Because there’s so much to explore, it’s worth staying overnight, and at Cable, Sunset and Urupukapuka bays there are basic DOC campsites at excellent locations.

An easy circuit around the island makes a memorable day out. Thanks to conservation efforts by DOC and local iwi, native trees are steadily replacing the former grasslands and there are regular views over the surrounding islands.

From Otehei Bay, head towards Urupukapuka Bay (where you may want to set up camp before carrying on). From the campsite, head north along the track that climbs to the island’s eastern ramparts, overlooking gnarled pōhutukawa and a craggy coastline. The track reaches a historic pā site overlooking a passage to the neighbouring Waewaetōrea Passage and Island. Waewaetōrea means the ‘footsteps of the oystercatcher’; an apt name.

Head south-east to Otiao Bay (good swimming), then climb the track to the island’s high point at 94m. From there it’s a 30-minute stroll back to the Urupukapuka Bay Campsite. On your second day, it’s worth exploring the tracks in the island’s southwest, that reach Cable and Sunset Bays, before heading back to Otehei and the ferry.

PEACH COVE TRACK, NORTHLAND

DISTANCE 1.8KM TIME 1.5HR GRADE EASY

BY MATTHEW CATTIN

Peach Cove Hut is as charming as it sounds. Little larger than a woodshed, the green and yellow eight bunk abode blends in wonderfully with its nīkau and kawakawa neighbours, which threaten to one day swallow it entirely. It stands in the shadow