Exploring Whitianga Rock to Purangi Road
Located on the Coromandel Peninsula, the walk from Whitianga Rock to Purangi Road offers a scenic journey through native forest and historical sites. This route provides a glimpse into the area's rich history, featuring an old defensive ditch near a pā site, and a side walk to the pā atop Whitanga Rock. The walk is an excellent opportunity for those interested in both natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Route Description
Begin your walk at Whitianga Rock and head towards Purangi Road. As you approach the pā site, take the fork through the old defensive ditch. This path leads down to a small, peaceful bay. From the bay, continue your walk over a high point through native forest. This section of the walk is a bit rough underfoot, but a lovely forest environment, despite being close to the road.
Completing the Loop
After traversing the forest, you will reach the main road above Ferry Landing. From here, walk back down the road, with a view of Maramaratotara Bay to return to the landing, completing the loop. The entire walk, including the promontory section, takes about an hour, making it a manageable excursion for most walkers.
How to Get There
To start the walk, head to Whitianga Rock, which is accessible from the town of Whitianga. From Whitianga, take the passenger ferry across the harbour to Ferry Landing. Once at Ferry Landing, follow the signs to Whitianga Rock to begin your walk. This area is well-connected and easy to reach, making it a convenient destination for a day trip. Nearby, you can also explore other attractions on the Coromandel Peninsula, such as Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach.
