Homunga Bay Track
Alerts
NIWA weather risks
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Forecast point: Karangahake Gorge (40m) · 19km away
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
The track winds around the coast from the northern end of Orokawa Bay. Take care along the coastline.
Elevation
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
The track winds around the headlands north of Orokawa Bay, leading to the popular fishing location of Homunga Bay.
Homunga Bay can be explored before returning the same way, or follow a pole-marked route through adjacent farmland to Ngatitangata Road.
As this is a steep climb up, many people who wish to do a one way choose to start here and walk through to Waihi Beach.
You can combine this track with Orokawa Bay Track and William Wright Falls Track for a full day coastal walk.
Getting there
Orokawa Bay is located north of Waihi Beach, off State Highway 2 at the end of Waihi Beach road. The track starts at the northern end of Waihi Beach.
Homunga Bay can be accessed from the end of Ngatitangata Road.
Know before you go
Keep to the track
In places on this track, there are cliffs and high drop-offs and areas are changeable by nature. Keep to the track and keep children safe.
The track may be inaccessible at high tide.
Wasps
Wasps are present in the area, especially in the warmer months. They can become aggressive if disturbed. Avoid nests, cover food and supervise children.
Swimming is not recommended
The coastline at Orokawa Scenic Reserve can be dangerous, particularly during rough conditions.
Stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing.
How to stay safe when rock fishing
The coastline is dangerous. Several people have died while rock fishing near Homunga Bay.
Fish with a mate, never go on your own. Also share your plans with a trusted person and ask them to call 111 if you don’t return.
Take two forms of waterproof communication, such as a mobile phone in a waterproof bag or a distress beacon. Wear them on your person, so if you end up in the water you can still reach them.
Do not fish in exposed areas during rough or large seas – check swell and tide information before you go
Observe sea conditions before you fish and never choose areas that are wet – waves have likely been washing over them. Do not turn your back on the sea.
Always wear a life jacket and follow all warning signs.
Read more about fishing safety.
Tsunami warning information
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track