Hatea Loop - Whangarei

The Hatea Loop in Whangarei is a popular 4.2 km shared walking and cycling path that circles the Hātea River near the Town Basin. It is also known as Huarahi o te Whai, which means "Pathway of Opportunity" in Māori.⁠

This easy, flat loop is fully accessible for everyone — including people using wheelchairs, pushchairs, scooters, or bikes. Most people can walk it in about 60 minutes. It is a great spot for a relaxed stroll, jog, or family bike ride.⁠

Along the way you will see beautiful river views, parks, playgrounds, sculptures, and art. Key highlights include the Canopy Bridge, Te Matau a Pohe bridge, Clapham's National Clock Museum, Reyburn House Art Gallery, the skatepark, Pohe Island Bike Park, and the Waka and Wave sculpture. There are seats to rest on and exercise stations on the way.⁠

The Loop is a great way to get the feel of Whangarei and see the beauty of the area. No way of getting lost, and everything is definitely worth seeing. After your walk factor in either a coffee at a local cafe, or even lunch in one of the myriad of quality local restaurants.

In my experience there are not too many towns where you can do so much so easily on foot. It's pretty special.