Mount Paku (Tairua)
Kia ora. My name is Connor de Gier. I was born in Auckland and lived there until moving to the Coromandel in 2021. I am 18 years old and have now developed a love for nature and exploring anywhere my legs can take me. Welcome to my series for Coromind magazine on my favourite Coromandel tracks!
Track #3: An accessible track for the family – Mount Paku (Tairua)
Mt Paku is a volcanic peak rising between the southern end of Tairua Beach and the Tairua harbour mouth. It was formed around 7-8 million years ago as a volcanic island. Relatively recently (over 6,000 years ago), sea levels rose, allowing a land bridge to develop that now connects the area known as Tairua to Mt Paku.*
There is a beautiful track up Mt Paku through groves of native trees. You will be accompanied by birdsong – watch out for tūī, fantails and bellbirds, they are everywhere to be seen.
After making your way to Memorial Reserve car park on Paku Drive, you will find some stairs marking the start of the track. It is well constructed and maintained with handrails and several places to stop and relax, making this track enjoyable for everyone regardless of your fitness. This makes it perfect for a family trip. Take time to read the signs with information about the history and geology of the area.
The last steep part of the climb is more of a challenge, but once standing tall at the summit you will be surprised by the scenic views of Tairua and Pauanui, the Tairua River, and the Coromandel Ranges, plus the Aldermen Islands (Ruamaahu), Mercury Islands (Ahuahu), Slipper Island and Shoe Island. The views, along with the tūī and fantails singing amongst the pōhutukawa trees that dangle off the edge of Mt Paku, are impressive!
My experience walking Mt Paku was quite enjoyable. I went during the school holidays with a friend on a lovely sunny day.
The walk up the track was smooth and easy. I was surprised to see some handrails along the track. I thought this was a great idea, making the track more accessible. The walk was short and not very steep compared to some walks and hikes I have done, but I was surprised by the amazing views and the presence of so many birds.
To conclude, I want to recommend some extra options. If you feel fit and have a whole day to spend, once you finish the short Mt Paku track, consider taking the Tairua ferry (available during the summer season) across the Tairua River to Pauanui. From there, you can walk to the starting point of Pauanui Summit Track. This challenging Summit track is a 5 km loop track with a 400 m elevation (check tide times before setting out). This walk is steep and hard, but the view from the top is rewarding.
If you do not wish to do that track and still have time to spend in Tairua, I recommend getting a feed from a takeaway shop located near the gas station called Johnnys or some of the food trucks on the other side of the road.
*see https://thecoromandel.com/explore/mount-paku
Tips:
- Bring water.
- Wear a hat and sunblock.
- Wear closed shoes.
Area: Tairua Coromandel New Zealand.
Distance: 0.6 Km
Grade: Easy – moderate
Access: Paku Drive, Tairua 3508
Note: Mt Paku, Paku Drive 3508, Coromandel New Zealand.
Words by Connor de Gier
Coromind: Coromandel’s Collaborative Magazine
Help us take Coromind Magazine to new heights by becoming a member. Click here
Change the Weather for Your Business: Advertise with Us.
Advertise your business in the whole Hauraki Coromandel in the coolest Coromandel Art Magazine, from Waihi Beach/Paeroa /Thames up to the Great Barrier Island.
Advertise Smarter, Not Harder: Get in Touch
