Ruapekapeka Pā Track

Ruapekapeka Pā is where dissatisfaction over the Treaty turned to war.

The story is told at Ruapekapeka Pā of the last battle of the Northern Wars fought between British colonial forces and northern Māori in 1845-1846.

The tracks start at the car park. Heading north, the track takes you past a designated picnic area to the British Camp site and location of the memorial grave of British Soldiers.

From here the loop track drops down to cross the valley and return towards the carpark. This section is steeper than others and can be difficult for unassisted wheelchair access though there are no steps. It is suggested that wheelchair users return by the same track to the carpark.

From above the carpark, the track takes you past the advanced British position, down through the bush and up to Ruapekapeka Pā site.

Alternatively, you can take this loop, immediately from the carpark and again it is recommended that wheelchair users take the upper level track rather than the steeper bush track.

How to get to the Ruapekapeka Pā Track

From Whangārei, follow SH1 north for 35 km. Just past the Towai service station, turn right into Ruapekapeka Road and follow this for 4 km.

You will see signs for Ruapekapeka and the carpark 300 m beyond the intersection where Ruapekapeka Road meets Kawakawa Road. The road is unsealed and narrow in places so take care.

The car park is signposted, and it can easily accommodate campervans.