About the path
Take in two stunning beaches and new native forest with lots of extras.
Enclosure Bay is one of the safest swimming beaches on Waiheke, with good rock pools at low tide.
McKenzie Reserve is an inspirational community project. A pine plantation in the valley has been replaced with regenerating coastal broadleaf forest. In the reserve, you’ll see interpretive displays, many especially designed for children. Enjoy a lookout with sweeping views over the Hauraki Gulf. The walk is steep at times, but you’re well rewarded. A great family challenge. No bikes, not good for buggies. Dogs on leads only. There are public toilets at Sandy Bay.
Start at Enclosure Bay, head up Empire Avenue, and at the end of the road, enter the forest left of the pou sculpture. Follow the Te Ara Hura markers to the interpretive ‘hub’ at the centre of the reserve (great spot for a picnic). Turn left and pick up the yellow route clockwise around the reserve. Don’t forget to check the many ‘lift up’ surprises along the route. Walk through the lookout site and start going down, then turn left on the blue route, up and over to Coromandel Road on a new, easy track. Turn right on Coromandel Road, and go down to explore Sandy Bay. Return to Enclosure Bay on the road.
Moderate walk, some steep sections, on gravel tracks and roadside.
