Dogs Leashed
Features
Views
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the part of the track that starts at the park entrance gate and leads to the Waiwera estuary. Dogs are not permitted on all other parts of the track.
Runner Notes
This would make a great loop for beginners or those looking for a quick taste of trail running.
Description
The Perimeter Track is a nice loop of Wenderholm Regional Park that gives you a intriguing glimpse into the history of the area. Starting from the main park entrance and parking area which features a large picnic area, grills, restrooms, beach access, a campground, and the historic Couldrey homestead, the trail climbs steadily up through a dense forest.
As you climb, views of the Puhoi River, Mahurangi, Kawau Island, and the Tawharanui Peninsula open up around you. This land was once the site of a Māori pā (a fortified settlement or defended fortification), and placards along the way highlight the strategic importance of this high jutting peninsula, located between the mouths of the Puhoi and Waiwera rivers.
Once you have enjoyed taking in the views and learning about the history of the land, continue south and down a similarly steep hillside toward Kokoru Bay. This section of the track is less-maintained and requires a bit more careful footing. Eventually, you'll pop out of the trees at Kokoru Bay on the Waiwera estuary. From here, it is a short and easy excursion back along the main entrance road to return to the main parking lot.
Flora & Fauna
Coastal and podocarp forests of pohutukawa, taraire, kohekohe, tawapou, puriri, mahoe and kowhai.
Contacts
Shared By:
Kristen McGlynn
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