Tirikohua Point: A Muriwai Gem
Tirikohua Point, perched just south of Bartrum Bay in Muriwai, on the wild west coast of Auckland, is one of the region’s most captivating coastal experiences. With its vibrant orange and yellow clay cliffs, this dramatic headland is a visual highlight. The views from the grassy terrace above the cliffs are truly spectacular, with wide-open vistas of the Tasman Sea and the rugged coastline stretching north and south. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic or to sit and take in the raw beauty of the landscape.
A Striking Coastal Lookout
The landscape at Tirikohua Point is both colourful and elemental. The orange and yellow clays that shape the cliffs create a bold contrast against the dark Tasman Sea and rocky coast below. From the cliff-edge, you can look north toward Muriwai Beach and south to the dramatic 4 km of cliffs before you reach Raetahinga Point. Above the cliffs, a broad, north-facing grassy terrace offers a natural resting place, providing some shelter from the prevailing wind. It’s a perfect location to pause and enjoy lunch.
The walk from Constable Road to Tirikohua Point is approximately 2.5 kilometres one way. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the viewpoint. There is a steep set of steps early in the walk, after which it crosses undulating, predominantly pastoral ground.
Demise of Te Henga Walkway
Tirikohua Point was once a key highlight along the full Te Henga Walkway, a 10-kilometre clifftop route connecting Muriwai and Te Henga / Bethells Beach. However, following a major landslide in early 2023, the walkway beyond Tirikohua Point has been closed, and there are no current plans for complete restoration at this time.
Getting There
As you approach Muriwai on Muriwai Road, continue south on Oaia Road, rather than turning west on Moutara Road towards the beach and town centre. Continue on Oaia Road to Constable Road, which is a very sharp turn to the right. There is some roadside parking near the track entrance. Avoid stormy weather for this walk.
Around Muriwai, you can also visit the Muriwai gannet colony, Otakamiro Point and Maukatia Bay, where you can discover a natural tunnel.
