Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The most interesting feature of the bay can only be reached 1½ hours either side of low
tide. Follow the rocky shore south from the southern end of the beach, and after a 10-minute
scramble you come to the sea arches of Arch Point , a set of impressive stone sculptures
formed by the repeated pounding of the waves.
The Coast Track continues by climbing the headland that separates Tonga Quarry and
Onetahuti Beach . After a 1km walk you come to a clearing overlooking the graceful curve
of the long beach. This is another classic Abel Tasman National Park beach, and Onetahuti
Campsite is at the southern end. Near the campsite a sign points the way to the delightfully
cold and clear freshwater pools that lie beneath a small waterfall - ideal after a hot day.
The beach is more than 1km long. Follow it to the northern end where a boardwalk and
two bridges will stop you from getting your feet wet. The Coast Track leaves the beach by
gently climbing above the swamp, providing a nice overview of the area. Within an hour the
track climbs to Tonga Saddle (260m) and you get a quick glimpse ahead of the beaches in
the distance. If you're heading for Awaroa Hut (26 bunks), take the northwest path (left
fork). The track descends to a bridge over Venture Creek. Large orange discs lead along the
shore for 15 minutes to Awaroa Hut, on a small beach in Awaroa Inlet. Nearby is Awaroa
Campsite.
The right fork leads to Awaroa Lodge, where you will find a cafe offering civilised re-
freshment. From the lodge the path to Awaroa Hut passes an airstrip before reaching Ven-
ture Creek, which can only be crossed two hours either side of low tide. Once across the
creek follow the orange discs to Awaroa Hut.
Day 4: Awaroa Bay to Totaranui
1½-2 HOURS, 5.5KM
Awaroa Inlet can only be crossed 1½ hours before and two hours after low tide. Check the
tide chart in the hut or at the lodge, then plan your day. Cross the bay directly in front of the
hut and follow the large orange discs that lead to Pound Creek. The track follows the creek
until it passes a signposted junction to Awaroa Rd, then quickly arrives at Waiharakeke
Bay , another beautiful beach. The Waiharakeke Campsite is a great spot, only 30 to 40
minutes north of Awaroa. The campsites are 50m south from the point where Waiharakeke
Stream emerges onto the beach.
The track climbs away from the beach, across a rocky ridge and then descends into Goat
Bay . From Goat Bay it's a 30-minute walk over the hill to Totaranui, with a short side track
to Skinner Point Lookout , which provides an excellent view of the settlement at Totaranui.
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