Walk 19 – Urupukapuka Island – The Ultimate Loop Walk

Urupukapuka Island is the largest island in the Bay of Islands and is a slice of paradise well worth exploring. As well as boasting some of the most spectacular panoramic views and gorgeous beaches with crystal clear water there are dozens of pristinely preserved archaeological sites on the island, some of which may be up to 1000 years old. From prehistoric Māori pā, villages, gardens, and food storage, right up to early 20th Century buildings used by famous author Zane Grey.

Travelling by commercial launch to Urupukapuka Island, venturing into the inner islands where you will disembark at the stunning Otehei Bay.

The full walk is 8 km on very well-maintained trails, with some steep climbs and steps and there is plenty to see.

Hiking through forest which holds treasures of Project Island Song such as the North Island robin and saddleback, which are the jewels amongst the abundant tui and fantail population. From sheltered bays, ancient pā, a wildlife hide and created wetland, climb through regenerating Manuka forest to scintillating views along the impressive seaward coastline. Looping around the island with one view to Zane Grey’s campsite and the other out to the waters he fished, before catching your vessel back to Russell.

Saturday 11th October Assemble time:8.15 Return HQ:4pm Duration: 5 hours walking 30 minutes each way boat travel. Distance: 8 km Grade: Hard Max: 20 Category: Family-friendly – children 10 years plus Cost: $75 includes a guided walk and boat transfers

Sunday 12th October Assemble time:6.45 Return HQ: 3.15 Duration: 5 hours walking 30 minutes each way boat travel. Distance: 8 km Grade: Hard Max: 20 Category: Family-friendly – children 10 years plus Cost: $75 includes a guided walk and boat transfers

IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Please check what is included and the time and length of your walk so you know what you need to bring in terms of food and water. It’s always a good idea to have a card or cash on you as you never know what you might encounter along the way.

2. The Russell Bowling Club is our Walking Weekend HQ, all walks start from there.

3. How the walks are graded

• We want to make sure everyone enjoys their walks. • Please match your level of fitness to your chosen walks to maximise your safety and enjoyment. • It can spoil the day for you and your group if you set out on a walk you have difficulty completing.

Grade 1 Easy Suitable for anyone. Tracks are of a good standard, mainly flat with a few gentle rises, well-formed and very easy walking

Grade 2 Medium Suitable for most people. Flat to hilly on well-formed tracks that are of a medium standard. Surfaces vary with some short steep grades

Grade 3 Medium to Hard Good fitness level required. Tracks are of variable but good quality including more demanding climbs and descents of moderate duration. Can have muddy/slippery stretches after rain

Grade 4 Hard High fitness level required. Tracks variable to rough, with longer distances and steeper sections than Grade 3. Can be muddy/slippery after heavy rain

Visit our website to see all the walks you can do.