Flagstaff Hill Track
Walking track
Time:
30 min
Distance:
2.5 km
Getting there
The walking track to the historic reserve at Flagstaff Hill begins near the boat ramp on the Strand in Russell.
About the area
Flagstaff or Maiki Hill is an important Bay of Islands landmark. The British flew the Union Jack from the staff. Local dissension among the Maori lead Hone Heke and his allies to chop it down as an act of defiance. Despite reinstatement and military protection, it was felled four times before the war in the north was sparked. It was not to end until the battle at Ruapekapeka Pa.
Description
At low tide, you can follow the beach around to Watering Bay, and then climb through regenerating coastal forest to reach Titore Way. Three hundred metres along this road, a sign marks the final leg through shrubland to the summit of Flagstaff Hill. (NB. a high tide alternative begins half way up Wellington Street).
10,000 Steps Northland
This track equates to approximately 3,333 steps.
Activities
Historic sites
Plan and prepare
No dogs or fires are allowed in the Reserve - this is kiwi habitat.
Russell Mini Tours takes a coach to the site.
What to expect on a walking track:
- Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
- Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
- Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required
back to top