10.5 km (2 – 3 hours walk)
The first leg of the Heaphy is a bit of an uphill slog through dense beech forest, but the track zig-zags to moderate the gradient. The Aorere Shelter is about two-thirds of the way up the hill and provides a welcome rest point or shelter from inclement weather. Fresh water is available here as well as toilet facilities.
Further along, there is a short detour to check out Flanagan’s Corner, which is the highest point on the track and affords a stunning view out over the wilds of the Kahurangi National Park and back to Golden Bay. On a fine day, walkers can even see the North Island and Mt Taranaki.
View & Download Printable Topographic Map
