Mapoutahi Track

From the gravelled end of Osborne Rd in Purakaunui Bay walk 1.2 km on the sandy and unformed road to the beach.

Head left to the steps that lead up Mapoutahi for good coastal views from the 18th century Māori pā site.

From Port Chalmers turn left onto Borlases Road, right onto Blueskin Road, right onto Heyward Point Road then left onto Purakaunui Road. Follow the road to Purakaunui Inlet onto Osborne Road.

From Waitati follow Shortcut Road to Blueskin Road, turn left onto Heyward Point Road, then left onto Purakaunui Road. Follow the road to Purakaunui Inlet onto Osborne Road.

This track finishes on the beach and visitors must cross the beach to access the Pā. Check tides before you go and ensure you have time to cross the beach on your return.

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.

Te Wera, the Chief of the Kai Tahu, had a pā at Huriawa. After an unsuccessful siege of Huriawa by his feuding uncle, Taoka, from Pukekura (Taiaroa Head), an ally of Te Wera's, Te Pakihaukea, shifted to Purakanui and relocated Mapoutahi Pā.

When Taoka arrived in mid-winter to beseige Mapoutahi Pā he found the pā well defended and impenetrable. However, on one particularly wild night Te Pakihaukea's guards put dummies in their places so they could retreat to the warmth of a fire. Taoka discovered the ploy and the pā was stormed and most of the inhabitants massacred.

The pā fell into disuse, and today many of the terraces can still be seen, although the edges have become less distinct through time.