Tapora - Manakapua Island - Big Sand Island

Greetings Everyone - Join us this Sunday as we explore Tapora - Big Sand island (Manakapua). We will also make a visit to Port Albert, one of New Zealand's early European settlements.

● Some words to Inspire you:
Exploring Bird's Beach and the Big Sand Island (Manakapua) in Tapora offers a unique adventure filled with coastal charm and natural beauty. Bird's Beach, known for its serene atmosphere and abundant birdlife, is the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. Take your time wandering along the shoreline, where you can observe native seabirds and enjoy the untouched beauty of the area.

A short journey away, the Big Sand Island is a hidden gem. Accessible by kayak or small boat, this expansive sand dune offers sweeping views and a sense of isolation that’s truly special. It’s a fantastic destination for a picnic or a quiet moment to soak in the scenery.

Starting our day with a side trip to Port Albert, Wellsford, a historic settlement with a rich heritage. Enjoy the peaceful harbor views, and perhaps grab a bite at a local café before heading back.

Duration: About 3-4 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 8-10 km.
Difficulty: 2.0 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.
What the scale means

Cost: $25 cash for Car Pooling People. If you do not bring cash, then you may not be able to attend.
Toilets: At Bird's Beach (1).
Low Tide: 14:23

● Post-Hike Gathering (Optional): After our adventure, you're welcome to join us for some well-deserved relaxation and camaraderie at The Bridge House Lodge - Warkworth

● PLEASE: No smoking, animals, children or guests.

● First Timers & Regulars:
We extend a warm welcome to newcomers, and we kindly request a gold coin donation ($2) to support our website and enhance the safety of our group.
You can also contribute directly to our bank account
12-3430-0791504-00 - Many Thanks

● Important Notes:
Care must be taken if swimming - generally regarded as safe swimming.
There is no shade on the sand island.
The road is mainly gravel for the last 30-45 minutes.

● 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?.
• Bring Food for your Lunch.
• Do you know where the meeting places are?

● Meeting Places:

• New World Victoria Park - Scotland Street
• Port Albert General Store - Port Albert Road
• Birds Beach, 39 Birds Beach Road, Tapora
• Okahukura Conservation Area - 555 Okahukura Road,
• Bridge House Lodge Bar, 16 Elizabeth Street, Warkworth - (Optional)

● Carpooling:

• Carpooling will be arranged for everyone meeting at New World.
• Just ANSWER the RSVP question.

● Time Guidelines:
08:45 - Good time to arrive at New World
09:00 - Car pooling organised and leave
10:00 - Everyone arrive at the Port Albert General Store for Introductions

10:30 Leave Port Albert
11:00 - Arrive at Birds Beach for early lunch and toilet stop.

12:00 - Arrive Okahukura Conservation Area
14:30 - Leave Big Sand Island

15:30 - Arrive Bridge House Lodge Bar, Warkworth for refreshments - (Optional)
16:30 - Leave The Bridge House Lodge
17:30 - Arrive CBD.

● Maps and More Information:
https://www.tiakitamakimakaurau.nz/discover-tamaki-makaurau/learn-about-your-area/bfa-manukapua-island-and-okahukura-sequence/

https://maps.app.goo.gl/gbehcbY98Tgx72YB6

● Hike Description & Directions:
We start our adventure by visiting Port Albert General Store for a coffee, then drive down and check out the wharf.
Onwards to Birds Beach for a toilet stop and early lunch.
Then we walk down the sand road for the entrance of Okahukura Conservation Area to the Big San Island. We will walk the southern end - clockwise.Stopping for a swim (Optional). We will finish the day at the Bridge Lodge House in Warkworth.

● Capture the Moment:
Share your best photos of the day for a chance to be featured on our Instagram Account.

● What to Bring:

• Appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.
• Packed picnic lunch.
• Comfortable hiking shoes suitable for a variety of terrains.
• Sun protection and emergency rain gear.
• Swimwear - (Optional)
• 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 explore the great outdoors with you this Sunday - Chris and the Team