Cape Reinga Coastal Weekend: Sand, Sea, and the Northernmost Trails

Cape Reinga Coastal Weekend: Sand, Sea, and the Northernmost Trails
Dates: 19 to 21 September 2025
Join us for a unique three-day adventure at the northernmost edge of Aotearoa. This trip combines sandboarding, a full-day hike along the wild coastline near Cape Reinga, and a relaxing final day on the east coast, with options to walk, swim, and enjoy fresh fish and chips by the sea. We’ll travel together from Auckland and explore one of New Zealand’s most spiritually and geographically significant regions.
TRIP OVERVIEW

On Friday afternoon we’ll meet at the Giant Te Paki Sand Dunes for sandboarding. Saturday is our big hike: a one-way section of the Te Paki Coastal Track from Cape Reinga to Te Paki Stream, with a stream crossing timed for low tide. Sunday takes us to the east coast for a 2.5-hour walk and optional swim at Rarawa Beach, followed by lunch at Mangōnui and a relaxed drive back to Auckland.
ITINERARY

Friday, 19 September 2025 – Travel & Sandboarding

Morning: Depart Auckland (carpool or self-drive)
1:30 PM: Meet at Te Paki Dunes for sandboarding
Enjoy the dunes and the views
Late afternoon: Set up camp at Tapotupotu Bay (pending confirmation with iwi)
Some attendees currently have 1 night at Spirits Bay and 1 at Tapotupotu.
I am working to consolidate both nights at Tapotupotu for everyone.
Hiking Day 1: Saturday, 20 September 2025 – Cape Reinga to Te Paki Stream via Cape Maria van Diemen

8:30 AM: Begin hike from Cape Reinga lighthouse carpark
Walk south along the Te Paki Coastal Track to Te Werahi Beach
Continue over Herangi Hill to the Cape Maria van Diemen turnoff
Stop for lunch/viewpoint break near the cape
Walk along Te Werahi Beach to Te Werahi Stream
~2:00 PM: Cross the stream at low tide (14:18 NZST)
Continue across the dunes to the Te Paki Stream carpark
Total Distance: ~13–14 km
Estimated Time: ~6 hours (including breaks)
Shuttling: I will coordinate car drop-offs before the hike
Evening: Return to Tapotupotu campsite for second night
Sunday, 21 September 2025 – Rarawa Beach Walk + Lunch in Mangōnui

8:30 AM: Depart camp and drive to Rarawa Beach (approx. 35 mins)
9:15–11:45 AM: Walk and/or swim at Rarawa Beach (~2.5 hours total)
Explore the white silica sand beach, swim if conditions allow
11:45 AM: Depart Rarawa
12:30 PM: Group lunch in Mangōnui
Options include the Mangōnui Fish Shop or other waterfront spots
1:30 PM: Depart Mangōnui for Auckland
~6:00 PM: Arrive in Auckland (with one break)
ACCOMMODATION

I am coordinating with the iwi to stay both nights at Tapotupotu Bay DOC campsite.

Those with existing bookings will be updated once final arrangements are confirmed.
You’ll need to bring your own tent and camping gear.
WHAT TO BRING

Essentials:
Tent and sleeping gear
Waterproof hiking boots and jacket
Daypack with 2L water
Food and snacks for Saturday + Sunday
Headlamp or torch
Sandboarding mat or board (or rent locally)
Swimwear and towel (optional for Sunday)
Recommended:
Quick-drying footwear for the stream crossing
Hiking poles
Sunscreen
Insect repellent (for sandflies and mosquitoes, especially at Tapotupotu)
FITNESS LEVEL

Moderate to high.

Saturday’s hike is ~6 hours with hills, sand, and coastal terrain. Sunday is flexible but includes up to 2.5 hours of walking or swimming. Sandboarding also requires climbing the dunes.
SAFETY

We’ll cross Te Werahi Stream at low tide (~2:00 PM)
I will carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) and paper maps
Participants are expected to stay with pace groups
Your safety remains your responsibility
CONTRIBUTION
TBD — A donation will be requested cover meetup and equipment costs.

CARPOOLING: Post a comment if you need a ride or (drivers) if you have free seats.