Wainui to Whariwharangi Bay

Wainui to Whariwharangi Bay is an out-and-back on the northern end of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, from the Wainui road end to Whariwharangi Hut just behind the bay. The mapped section is 5.7 km one way, so returning on the same track makes it 11.4 km (about 7.1 miles); allow about four hours of walking and extra time at the hut and shore. It suits someone who wants a proper half-day walk to a historic homestead and a northern beach. It is not a short beach stroll: the return includes the same climb back over the saddle, and you retrace the inlet-side section to the car. Stop at the hut for this outing; continuing to Separation Point or toward Tōtaranui makes a different, longer route.

Leaving the car park, the track follows the edge of Wainui Inlet before climbing inland. The climb reaches a low saddle; pause there for the view back over the inlet. On the far side, descend beside a trickling stream to Whariwharangi Bay. The hut sits in a grassy clearing behind the beach, so the finish shifts from bush and hillside to open shore and a former farmhouse. Turn around at the hut. This is a point-to-point section walked as an out-and-back by day visitors, not a loop, and there is no shortcut that removes the climb on your return.

Whariwharangi Hut began as a farmhouse around 1896. John Handcock built it and lived in the valley with his family for 15 years. It was last inhabited in 1926, remained part of the farm until 1972, and was restored in 1980. The timber-framed, one-and-a-half-storey building has a long veranda and two brick chimneys; original interior details include a built-in staircase and timber wall panelling. It stands just behind the beach in regenerating bush, with the grassy clearing making a natural place to stop before walking back. You can visit on a day walk without booking a bed. Overnight stays require advance booking year-round; the hut has 20 bunks, but no gas cooking or lighting, so overnight guests need a stove, fuel and a light.

Start at the Department of Conservation car park at the end of McShane Road in Wainui; the last 2 km of road are unsealed, and vehicles are left at the owner's risk. Toilets are available at the car park and hut. Carry drinking water for the day: water at the hut and campsite is untreated and must be boiled before use. Dogs are not allowed on the track. The walk is possible year-round, but winter brings shorter daylight, so leave enough time for the return. Wasps and sandflies occur on the track; take repellent, and anyone allergic to wasp stings should bring their medication. Cellphone reception is poor within the park.