Cape Brett Walkway, Rawhiti
If you’re lucky enough to walk this track without seeing another soul, you’ll really believe you’ve visited the end of the earth. Cape Brett really is a very special place. When you arrive at the Lighthouse by boat, you see things differently. The character of the land is more important than tired feet; the ocean has a personality, not just a pretty outlook; the Lighthouse is a Mother, observing the Pacific, keeping watch over those who need protecting, worn and tired by her task.
Russell is the closest township to the Track’s entrance. Organise a Water Taxi to the Cape - this is the preferred option for many people as the return trip on foot covers a total of 65km over 2 days.
The walk up to the Lighthouse from the Hut is a great 10 minute warm-up for what lays ahead. While none of the peaks are that high, you’re forced to walk every last one as most of the track follows the Cape’s ridge. By mid-afternoon you’ll be wondering just how many more ups and downs you can face. But, conveniently, the track is divided in to three almost equal portions, making this tramp easy to navigate mentally.
The first third, from the Hut to Deep Water Cove, is steep but there are many beautiful look out points to stop and catch your breath. Tui’s and Fantails are plentiful and the regenerating bush is lovely. Once you reach the junction to Deep Water Cove, you have the choice of a side trip to the beach (which will add two - three hours to your trip) or a rest stop before starting the second third of the track.
If you choose the later, you’ll begin crossing Maori Land administered by a local trust. Fees are payable for maintaining this portion of the track ($30 per adult, payment accepted at the Doc Visitor’s Centre). You’ll experience more spectacular views on this section; if you walk in reverse on a clear day as we did, you’ll see across to the Whangerai Heads and far beyond.
At times, the track in this portion becomes very exposed. If you’re thinking about making the trip in summer you’ll need plenty of sunscreen, a wide brim hat and a LOT of water. By the time you reach the electric Possum Fence, you’ll feel a sense of relief knowing you only have one third to go.
Through the fence, the track once again runs through Department of Conservation land. The highlights of this section include views across the Bay of Islands where you’ll get to appreciate just how many land forms there are in this harbour, and just how far you’ve walked! The beautiful lookout across the Bay about an hour before the end is perfect for a snack stop and the sight of the golden sand beaches as you descend the final section is priceless.
If you’re lucky enough to walk the track without seeing another soul, you’ll really believe you’ve visited the end of the earth. It’s a magical walk and highly recommended.