10 October 2026
Cloudy with the odd shower, then rain developing this evening, possibly heavy. Northeasterlies.
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1 / 16Whangaroa area
Wairakau Stream Track
This track is for experienced trampers. It first climbs over a saddle to an old farm road and then descends through regenerating forest to Wairakau Stream. It ends at Lane Cove Hut.
Distance
5.6 km
Walking time
2 hr
Difficulty
Intermediate
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Noise from boats at Lane Cove Hut
Weather outlook
Northland forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 4:55 pm
11 October 2026
Mainly fine with showers before dawn, possibly heavy. Turning partly cloudy in the afternoon with the chance of a shower. Northwesterlies.
12 October 2026
Cloud clearing and becoming fine in the morning. Northerlies, turning westerly before dawn.
13 October 2026
Partly cloudy, with showers in the afternoon. Westerlies developing in the morning.
14 October 2026
Isolated showers, with increasing cloudy periods. Northwesterlies.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Wairakau Stream Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Wairakau Stream Track
The track starts at the end of Campbell Road where street parking is available. Continue on foot onto this old wide and steep farm road for about 1 km. The track then narrows and enters the forest, slowly descending towards Wairakau Stream. It is reasonably well formed but there are challenging sections due to tree roots and rocks. Be prepared to get your feet wet at the stream crossing. The track then continues on grassy terrain. Lane Cove Hut , a day shelter and toilets are found at the 5 km mark. Not for the faint hearted, the track joins Duke’s Nose (Kaiaraara Rock) track which climbs steeply for another 500m before reaching the spectacular Duke’s Nose viewpoint. Amazing views of the Whangaroa Harbour and the sea await after a challenging ascent. A metal handrail fixed to the vertical rock face in the rock makes this final short climb possible. Return via the same track.
Essential information for Wairakau Stream Track
Sections of this track could be overgrown and boggy in winter or after heavy rain Reasonable fitness and mobility level is required for the steep and narrow climb to Duke’s Nose No dogs allowed There is no drinking water at the hut Sturdy footwear is recommended, as well as warm and waterproof clothing Do not cross the stream during or after heavy rain as it can become deep.
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 Wairakau Stream Track
Head west on State Hwy 10 towards Totara N Rd. Turn right onto Totara N Rd. Turn left onto Campbell Rd. 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 Wairakau Stream Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Wairakau Stream 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.