Urupukapuka Island - Walk 6

The Bay of Islands Walking Weekend

Urupukapuka Island - Walk 6

The locals favourite!

This year you have the choice of the long island loop or a shorter 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 imaginable 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, there are countless historic sites to explore on Urupukapuka Island.

You will travel by commercial launch to Urupukapuka Island, getting a feel for the Bay of Islands as you venture into the inner islands where you will disembark at the stunning Otehei Bay. The full walk is 11km on very well maintained trails and there is plenty to see. (For those who don’t like steps a shorter version will be available if the group decides to split in two.) You will hike 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 pa, 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.

Sat 19th October 8:00 am
Sun 20th October 8:00 am

Duration – 5 hours walking
30 minutes each way boat travel.
Distance 11 kms
Please note – For those who don’t like steps a shorter version will be available if the group decides to split in two, we will have extra guides to allow this to happen, and you can still experience the panoramic views and all the island has to offer.

Cost Adult $60.00, Child $30 (includes boat transfers)
Grade: Hard for the long walk, medium for the shorter
Category - Family friendly – Children 10 years plus
Maximum walkers - 20

All walks depart from the Russell Bowling Club in Russell. There are many walks to book on - so look at all the walks you can do over the 3 days. The walks are all guided and the guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the region.

Visit our website to see all the walks you can do.
For more on accommodation and what is on in the region - speak to Colette from Russell Information Centre: 0800 633 255 or (09) 403 8020 (Russell Office).