We found ourselves with an extra day in the Auckland area and decided to investigate the Tasman Sea (western shores) of New Zealand. It’s only 30 miles by road, but took us a little over 2 hours since the roads are narrow and windy as they climb and descend the mountains. Of course, add to that the fact this is our first day driving “British Style”, on the left side of the road, and so are a little nervous whenever a car flies by us.
Kura & Omanawanui Tracks
The hike itself of the Kura Track begins in a car park where you must first cross some pastures and then enter a sub-tropical forest that reminded me of Puerto Rico. The area is covered with both conifers and palm trees – which seems to be an odd mix, but also makes both Corrie and me rather giddy. The ferns also come in a varied range of sizes and shapes.
After a 1km tramp through the valley, and fording several streams, we began our ascent – though somehow got lost on the trail at one point and we missed the expected waterfalls. At least GPS saved us from wandering too far off the trail.
However, it’s when you cross back over the road onto the Omanawanui track that the views really start getting worth the hike. Along the way you skirt Manaku Harbor with glimpses of Paratutae Island and Awhitu Peninsula.
Following the 4 hr, 6.6km tramp we took it easy and soaked our toes in the Tasman Sea and squished the black sands of the beach.