The Tutukaka Lighthouse walk is a fun short walk with fantastic views. This easy walk is a great way to enjoy the views of the area and get your heart pumping!
I have visited the Tutukaka Coast area a few times and have always really enjoyed it. On past trips most of my time was spent lounging around some of the pristine beaches or getting bashed by waves at Manapouri Bay. For this trip we broke up the beach time with a bit of exercise by taking this walk to the lighthouse. Keep in mind that you should aim to take this walk at low tide as you have to cross a narrow isthmus that may be under water at high tide.
Tutukaka Lighthouse Walk – Highlights and Logistics
Highlights – panoramic views of ocean, islands, and beaches
Location – Northland, just north of Tutukaka Harbour on the east coast. Turn onto Landowners Lane and drive to carpark at end.
Difficulty – easy
Length – 2 km return, 1 – 2 hours depending on your pace and stops
About the Tutukaka Lighthouse Walk
The Tutukaka coast is a stunning stretch of beautiful coves and beaches separated by rugged ridges. This walk goes out to the tip of a headland just north of the Tutukaka harbour.
From the carpark the walk heads along some open grassy headlands before coming to a viewpoint from which you can look down towards the narrow isthmus with sandy beaches and up to Kukutauwhao Island and the lighthouse.
The walk then descends a steep staircase before arriving at the beach.
At low tide you can walk over some rocky platforms and sand beaches, peaking over at some islands on the other side.
From the beach the walk climbs quite steeply up to the top of Kukutauwhao Island where the trig and lighthouse are located. The climb is steep, but thankfully short, really just enough to get your heart pumping. The views then look out over the expanse of the ocean or to the bays that head in on either side of you.
My Insider’s Tips to the Tutukaka Heads Lighthouse Walk
If the carpark at the end of the road is full then you can head back to the Tutukaka Harbour. Park by the marina and look for a short, steep track that climbs up to Landowners Lane, which you can follow to the start of the walk.
On the way back to your car there is a great bench to sit down at and soak up the views. After you climb back up the steep stairs on your return the bench makes for a great chilling out spot for a snack or drink before you jump back into your car.