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Coastal section of trail

Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Trail

Ngā Tapuwae o Toi, or the 'Footprints of Toi', is a walking trail that captures the essence of the Whakatāne District. It includes pa sites of major historic significance, superb native forest, spectacular pohutukawa stands, unsurpassed coastal views, seabird colonies, forest birds in abundance, plantation forest and rural vistas.

Advisory: Following significant rainfall in October, a section of the much-loved Ngā Tapuwae o Toi walkway has been out of action after a large slip caused extensive damage to the track. The slip, occurred on the section between West End, Ōhope to Ōtarawairere Bay, and plans are now in place to repair the slip. The good news is, there are multiple alternative routes to explore along the walkway and Council have installed signage along the track which includes a map of these alternate courses. To access Ōtarawairere Beach/Bay, you can do so via the track between number 115 & 117 Ōtarawairere Road or via the track from Whakatāne township (subject to tides - see below).   

The track includes three major scenic reserves - Kohi Point Scenic Reserve, Ōhope Scenic Reserve and Mokorua Scenic Reserve. The walkway is accessible to most people, regardless of fitness level, because it can be undertaken in sections. Information boards placed in strategic locations tell much more of the district's natural and historic heritage.

Embrace the incredibly scenic Kōhī Point walk and appreciate ancient pā sites, native bush and birdsong, stunning cliff-top views and the picturesque, secluded Ōtarawairere Beach. This track is a must for keen walkers.

Note that Ōtarawairere Beach is inaccessible on foot during high tide from the West. Please check with the Whakatāne Visitor Information Centre for the latest tide information. You can also access tide tables at MetService.

If you are walking to Ōhope and wish to return to Whakatāne by bus, the Beach Hopper Bus can pick you up at the Ōhope Beach Haven store. Phone the Whakatāne Visitor Information Centre for bus times or view the timetable on the Baybus website.

Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Points of interest

Click on the points in the map above to see more information about each point of interest. 

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Vertigraph

Recommended Start-point

Park in town, or walk from your accommodation to the start point, head up to the stairs to Seaview Road. 

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Couple looking out at coastal view

Great Selfie Spot

Stop to take in the view and grab a memorable selfie or group shot while you're at it!

Lookout Point

Take in the spectacular coastal views.

Check the tides!

Ōtarawairere can be inaccessible at high tide. Check the tides before heading off. 

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Look out over Ohope Beach

Lookout Spot

Stop for a break and take in the beauty of the East Coast and Ōhope Beach. From here it's a short walk down to Ōhope.

Kiwi Wandering

The Ōhope Scenic Reserve is home to over 300 kiwi. Guided kiwi night walks are available.

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Fairbrother Loop Track Entrance

Fairbrother Loop Track

This section of the trail can also be walked as a short loop track, great at night or day. Find out more.

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Pohutukawa

Pōhutukawa Forest

The Ōhope Scenic Reserve is home to the largest remaining pōhutukawa forest in New Zealand.

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