Maitai Bay Headland Track

Track category

Tramping track

Time:  

1.5 hr return

Distance:  

3.45 km return

Description

Picturesque Maitai Bay.
Picturesque Maitai Bay

Before walking this track, see the Maitai Bay camp manager first. It is recommended you walk this track during the summer. Over winter and at times of high rain fall, the track becomes slippery.

The track begins at the Maitai campsite and ventures over farmland and manuka/kanuka shrub. Start at the far left hand corner of the top campsite. Walk along the fence line until you come to a wooden gate. From here follow the orange triangle markers journeying through native manuka and kanuka, finishing at the end of the headland. From here you can enjoy spectacular views over the bay area, and out to the Pacific.

View a track location map

Getting there

You can access this track from State Highway 10, driving east along Inland Road on Karikari Peninsula. Continue onto Maitai Bay Road, and enter the Maitai Bay campsite.

The Headland Track starts at the top left hand corner of the top camp.

Activities

Fishing Fishing

After your walk, take a refreshing swim in Maitai Bay’s crystal clear waters.

Plan and prepare

During winter months or after heavy rainfall track will become muddy. This track is recommended to be walked during the summer season.

Notes for trampers

  • Be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on the longer day walks. 
  • You need to be fit and self sufficient.
  • Take adequate food and clothing on your trip and allow for weather changes and possible delays.
  • Carry water as streams along the way can dry up over summer.
  • Take insect repellent.
  • Take care with river crossings, especially after rain. If in doubt, sit it out.
  • Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back.
  • Keep to the tracks. If you become lost - stop, find shelter, stay calm and wait for searchers to find you. Don't leave the area unless you are absolutely sure where you are heading.

Toihu te whenua – leave the land undisturbed

  • Respect our cultural heritage
  • Protect plants and animals
  • Remove rubbish
  • Do not cut or remove vegetation
  • Light no fires
  • Keep to the track
  • Consider others
  • Enjoy your visit

Help stop kauri dieback

Kauri dieback disease is killing our native kauri. It spreads by soil movement, but you can help prevent it.

  • Stay on the track and off kauri roots.
  • Clean your gear before and after visiting kauri forests.

Visit the kauri dieback website for more information on how you can help.

Track location map

Map showing Maitai Bay Headland Track, Fig Tree Track and Karikari Bay Walk.


Related link

Nearby Fig Tree Track

 

Maps

DOC maps: Discover the outdoors - DOC's key places, campsites, tracks and huts, and visitor centres on a map

Learn more

Check, Clean, Dry between waterways and stop the spread of didymo.

Kauri dieback disease is attacking kauri trees in Northland. Find out how to stop it spreading.

Safety

Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies

Contacts

Kaitaia Area Office
Phone:      +64 9 408 6014
Email:   kaitaiaao@doc.govt.nz
Full office details
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