Greetings Everyone - Join us on Sunday as walk alongside the Mangawhai River
🟡 Some words to Inspire you:
Mangawhai gives us one of those classic AGT days where the scenery, the company, and the post‑walk atmosphere all lined up perfectly. We set off from the iconic Mangawhai Tavern, a landmark in its own right, and head straight for the water’s edge. With the tide low enough to make it possible, we follow the riverbank towards the Mike Keating Memorial Trail, easing into the day with wide estuary views and the sound of wading birds nearby.
The boardwalks carried us through the wetlands and out toward the bridge, where we crossed over and dropped down onto the rocks before stepping onto the sand. From here, the walk opened up beautifully. The river curls gently beside us, and the group will spread out into an easy rhythm as we follow the shoreline. A small unnamed park on Estuary Drive makes the perfect lunch stop—quiet, sheltered, and with just enough space for everyone to relax.
After lunch, we continue along the river toward Sellars Reserve, enjoying the changing colours of the water and the long views toward the heads. The final stretch around the river mouth is a highlight—wild, open, and absolutely worth the extra distance. We climb up near the old surf club, pause to take in the coastline, and then make our way back along the road and beach toward Sellars Reserve and the cars.
The day wrapps up exactly as it should: back at the Old Mangawhai Tavern, where cold drinks, good food, and live music set the tone for a relaxed afternoon.
Sitting outside with the estuary right beside us, it felt like the perfect finish to a classic AGT outing—scenic, social, and full of that easy Mangawhai charm.
Duration: About 4-5 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 12 -15 km.
Difficulty: 2.5 to 2.75 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.
Cost for Car Poolers: $20 - Please pay the driver cash at Freemans Bay, otherwise you may not be able to come.
Toilets: The best option is to use the public toilets at the Mangawhai Village, just before the Mangawhai Tavern.
🟡 How the Grading Works:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/17iZoaM7SFaQcuyBF-AecNY8YBZeUpdxIvUmqpPfv1wo/edit?usp=drivesdk
🟡 Post-Hike Gathering (Optional):
After our adventure, you're welcome to join us for some well-deserved relaxation and camaraderie at The Mangawhai Tavern.
🟡 PLEASE: No smoking, animals, children or guests.
🟡 First Timers & Regulars:
We extend a warm welcome to newcomersand kindly request a $5 donation from all hikers to support our website and enhance the safety of our group.
You can pay cash on the day or directly to our bank account 12-3430-0791504-00 - many thanks.
🟡 Important Notes:
Take care when crossing the roads, look before crossing.
🟡 Health and Safety Information:
All Auckland Global Trekkers organisers work on a strictly voluntary basis and hold NO responsibility or liability for any injury, or loss suffered during the events organised.
Each person who participates accepts responsibility for making their own determinations and for their own safety, conduct and well being; recognising that there are hazards in attending group and outdoor activities and agrees to participate solely at their own risk.
🟡 Preparation is the key to having a good day:
Check the weather
Do you have the correct clothing and shoes?.
Do you know where the meeting places are?
🟡 Meeting Places:
Auckland Global Trekkers - 100 Wellington Street
Mangawhai Tavern - Moir Street
Sellars Reserve - North Avenue.
🟡 Carpooling:
Carpooling will be arranged for everyone meeting at Freeman's Bay. Best efforts, no guarantees.
Just ANSWER the RSVP question.
🟡 Time Guideline:
08:15 - A good time to arrive at NISHIKI FREEMANS BAY
08:30 - Car Pooling will be organised and leave.
09:45 - Everyone arrives at Mangawhai Tavern.
All passengers will stay at the Tavern while all cars are dropped off at Sellars Reserve. Bring just enough cars back to the Tavern to get drivers to the start of the hike.
10:20 - Introductions and Hike starts.
15:00 - Hike finishes at the Reserve and drive back to the Tavern
15:30 - 16:30 - The Mangawhai Tavern - (Optional)
18:00 - Arrive back at Freemans Bay (approx)
🟡 Maps and More Information:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/5nYq2Vd8LvuBaYC2A
(Sellars Reserve Carpark). If the weather is not we will use the Mangawhai Heads Beach Carpark. 🟡 Walk Description & Directions:
Starting from the tavern we will walk along the rivers edge towards the Mike Keating Memorial Trail. We will follow the boardwalks till we get over the bridge then clamber down the rocks to the sand and start walking along the edge of the river. We will stop for lunch at a small park on Estuary Drive.
Keep following the river to Sellars Reserve around the heads and come up by the old surf club to the carpark and walk along the road/beach back to Sellars Reserve and the cars.
🟡 Capture the Moment:
Share your best photos of the day to have a chance to be featured on our Instagram & Facebook Accounts.
🟡 What to Bring:
Appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.
Comfortable shoes suitable for a variety of terrains.
Sun protection and emergency rain gear.
Personal first-aid items
🟡 Additional Notes:
Safety and togetherness are our priorities. We will make stops at all track junctions to ensure the group stays together.
Punctuality is key, and we will depart on time, so please be prompt.
We can't wait to go trekking with you on Sunday - Jodi, Vivienne and the Team