Blink and you miss it
Opua Forest - Nov 14, 2026
Just off the road to Paihia, you find a short walk through groves of kauri trees, climaxing at a lookout platform that looks out over a beautiful valley and a majestic Kauri tree reaching to the sky.
❋ What to expectEasy walk through native bush leading to a lookout with stunning views of a majestic kauri tree.
Its is a short walk but well worth it. I have taken my parents and a family visiting from overseas and they all loved it. Chances are you will have it all to yourselves.
❋ Don't blink or you will miss itOn the road between Opua and Paihia, turn off onto Oramahoe Road. About 4km along the road you reach a small pull in. The walk begins across the road.
Oramahoe Road is an unsealed road, but it’s fine and it’s not far.
❋ Need to knowThe walk is pretty easy. I took my parents, both in their 70s, and they managed fine. The track is well formed and there are large sections of boardwalks. Allow 20-minute return if you in a rush, 30 minutes if you are a bit slower of want to linger and enjoy the tranquility of the forest and the majesty of the kauri trees.
❋ Where to nextAfter any kind of exercise, I like to reward myself with a yummy treat. Try Mr Bigs Coffee van, parked up at Te Haumi for your caffeine fix, grab an ice cream from Cellinis Ice Cream stand in Paihia or if you are look for lunch, treat yourself at Charlottes kitchen on the Paihia wharf.
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