The 1,700-hectare Pukenui Forest and adjoining Western Hills Forest are right on the doorstep of Whangārei, offering a mix of walking and tramping experiences suitable for all fitness levels. If you’re looking for a short stroll in nature or a multi-hour hiking adventure, the forests showcase native vegetation, mature trees, picturesque streams, and diverse birdlife.
The forests are steeped in history, with Māori pa sites, storage pits, a deserted goldmine, and remnants of former logging operations. Don’t miss the Quarry Arts Centre (off Selwyn Avenue) and the Whangārei Quarry Gardens (off Russell Road) as they are both well worth a visit.
Western Hills Forest (Coronation Scenic Reserve) can be accessed from:
Pukenui Forest has multiple entry points:
The walking tracks link Whangārei District Council and Department of Conservation land, including Coronation Scenic Reserve, Pukenui Conservation Park, Whau Valley Water Supply Reserve, and Whangārei Quarry Gardens Recreation Reserve.
Fitness level: moderate
Time: 3–4 hrs (from car park)
Distance: 8.2 km
This track begins as an easy walk and is suitable for all ages. The route passes open farmland with historic dry stone walls, regenerating native vegetation, and the songs of tūī and tomtits. The track then follows an old forestry bullock track to Mangere Stream, which has scenic picnic spots. Steep hills return you to the fence line and the car park. Expect to see large kauri and totara trees, native orchids, and varied forest types.
Fitness level: moderate
Time: 4–5 hrs (from car park)
Distance: 8.9 km
Predominantly lined with taraire trees, this walking track takes you through a stream crossing and up to Taraire Ridge, linking with the Main Ridge Track and the Pukenui Forest Loop Track. Picnic spots along Mangere Stream provide a restful stop. The return involves a steep climb along an old forestry bullock track.
Fitness level: high
Access: Multiple points including Whau Valley Dam, Whangārei Quarry Gardens, Coronation Scenic Reserve, Quarry Arts Centre, Barge Park, Golf Harbour Drive, and Amalin Drive/Three Mile Bush Road (via Taraire Ridge Loop Track)
This undulating track moves through the heart of the Pukenui/Western Hills Forest area. Suitable only for experienced trampers, it links several key forest locations and offers an adventurous way to explore the full forest network.
Detailed track maps and updates are available on the Whangārei District Council and Department of Conservation websites.
