Exploring Whangaparapara on Aotea Great Barrier Island
Whangaparapara, located on Aotea Great Barrier Island, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The area is accessible via Whangaparapara Road, which branches off just beyond Blind Bay Road. Visitors can enjoy the scenic harbour and explore several walking tracks, making it a worthwhile destination for those interested in both nature and history.
Points of Interest on Whangaparapara Road
As you travel along Whangaparapara Road, you'll encounter several attractions. Before the road's seal ends, you can access the Kaitoke Hot Springs Track, a popular spot for relaxation. Further along, you'll find the remnants of a stamping battery, a nod to the area's gold mining past. This road also marks one end of the Te Ahumata Track, which leads to Blind Bay.
Walking Tracks and Historical Sites
The harbour at Whangaparapara is picturesque, and a short walk just past the wharf offers a pleasant experience. From the wharf, you can access various tracks, including the multi-day Aotea Track via the Tramline Track. Walking along the northwest side of the harbour leads to the Green Campsite, accessible only on foot via the Old Mill Track. This path also takes you to the remains of a kauri logging mill and a whaling station. Be prepared for rough terrain beyond the campground.
Dining Options
Before reaching the wharf, visitors can enjoy a meal at the restaurant located at Great Barrier Lodge, providing a convenient dining option after a day of exploration.
How to get there
To reach Whangaparapara from Claris, take Hector Sanderson Road to Blind Bay Road, turn right, then almost immediately left onto Whangaparapara Road. This road will lead you to the various points of interest and walking tracks in the area.
Taking Blind Bay Road instead gets you lovely Okupu / Blind Bay, while heading northeast on Gray Road takes you to stunning Awana Bay, then to the more northern reaches of the island.
