10 October 2026
Mostly cloudy, then fine spells increasing in the afternoon. The odd shower until evening. Light winds, then northerlies developing in the afternoon.
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1 / 10Whangapoua and Matarangi area
Rings Beach Loop Track
Enjoy the spectacular views as you wind through the regenerating forest and wetlands between Matarangi and Rings Beach.
Distance
5 km
Walking time
2.5–3 hours
Difficulty
Intermediate
Dogs
On-lead only
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Coromandel Peninsula forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 10:55 am
11 October 2026
Showers, easing for a time in the morning and afternoon. Northerlies, turning westerly in the morning.
12 October 2026
Showers becoming isolated in the morning but remaining cloudy. Westerlies, turning northerly for a time in the morning and afternoon.
13 October 2026
Partly cloudy, with a few showers in the afternoon. Westerlies.
14 October 2026
A few showers clearing to fine in the afternoon. Northwesterlies.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Rings Beach Loop Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Rings Beach Loop Track
From the Matarangi side, the Rings Beach Loop Track begins at the saddle between Matarangi and Rings Beach. Follow the Matarangi Bluff Track and then turn to head uphill to the south – the turnoff is signposted. The track ends at the eastern end of Rings Beach. You can complete the loop by following the old Bluff Road back to the start of the track. The track is marked with orange triangles. It is well defined and passes through regenerating native forest, pine forest, and wetlands. It has some stair sections and narrow crossings through the wetlands. About half way through the walk, you can choose to walk on wide wooden planks and cut across the wetland or take the wetland loop to go around it (20 minutes). The wetland loop is a small detour but gives you a chance to spot fernbirds.
Essential information for Rings Beach Loop Track
The scenic Bluff Road skirting the coast between Matarangi and Kūaotunu is permanently closed to vehicle traffic due to a dangerous, collapsed cliff. Rings Beach is accessible by car from Kūaotunu at the eastern end of Bluff Road. There are no public toilets at Rings Beach or along the track. Dogs are not allowed off the lead on any of the tracks.
Kauri protection guide
Clean your footwear, tyres and equipment before and after visiting our kauri forests. If you are walking your dog, you should also make sure you clean their paws. Use cleaning stations every time you pass one while you are walking in a park. Stay on the tracks and keep off kauri roots. Stay away from closed tracks. Don't remove soil from, or bring soil into, areas with kauri trees.
Getting there for Rings Beach Loop Track
Access the start of the track from the western and eastern ends of Rings Beach. There is parking on both sides. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there. An alternative track entrance is via the Matarangi Bluff Track at the eastern end of Goldfields Drive in Matarangi. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Rings Beach Loop Track
Dogs on a leash only.
Before you walk Rings Beach Loop Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.