Huriawa Pā Walk

Note that this track has been damaged by a heavy rain with surface damage and ground movement. Follow onsite signage, stay on the formed gravel track, and take due care.

Starting at the car park at the Domain on Barvas Street, follow the track around the peninsula to Karitane beach. Follow the track through the cemetery back to the Domain. For a longer return walk, continue along the beach.

The walk passes blow holes where the incoming tide is forced up through the rocks.

Views from the walkway are spectacular out over Taiaroa Heads to the south and Matanaka and Butterfly Bay to the north.

Huriawa Peninsula is the site of the pā of Te Wera and the legendary siege. Plaques along the way tell the history of the area and show the site of the old Waikouaiti Whaling Station and Tavern.

North of Dunedin, turn off SH1 onto Coast Road, drive through Karitane and park at the Domain on Barvas Street.

This is private land owned by Kati Huirapa Runaka ki Puketeraki. Out of respect for the local people do not dig or remove plants.

Erosion and fall risk

Huriawa Peninsula is coastal and exposed to erosion and land movement.

There is a risk of falling on sections of this track due to cliffs. Keep to the marked track and avoid cliff edges. Keep children within sight and do not let them near edges.

Tsunami risk

This track is susceptible to tsunami. If a siren sounds or a tsunami alert is received move to higher ground and stay away from the coast until the risk or alert period is over.

Poisonous plants

Poroporo can be found along this track and the surrounding area. A native shrub that can grow to 3–4 m, flowers coloured white to violet. The fruit of this plant are poisonous and should not be eaten.