Stage 4 - Orongo Bay to Russell

1h 45mins (5 km)

Stage 4 commences at Hirst Reserve (DOC) where a grass track connects to the mangrove boardwalk across Orongo Bay before reaching the carpark adjacent to the oyster farm. 

Tikitikioure is a small mountain that once was a Maori safehaven when the pas at Kororareka and Matauwhi were in danger of being attacked. 

In 1872 manganese was discovered and mining commenced. By 1880 there were more than 80 miners on site, most of whom had emigrated here from Cornwall in England. The ore was loaded onto lighters in the bay where coastal shipping vessels then carried it away for processing.

Tikitikioure had given up all its good quality ore by 1895 when the mine was closed and the buildings were sold for removal. The mountain now boasts a trig point and receiver tower on its summit.

After passing the oyster farm continue along Russell Whakapara Road. Russell Nature Walks which offers guided day and night bush walks is on the right just before Uruti Road.

Turn right into Uruti Road. Approximately 100 metres along Uruti Road on the left a boardwalk crosses the raupo swamp and enters a manuka grove. The track returns to Russell Whakapara Road and enters Florence Avenue leading to Matauwhi Road which is the recommended access to Russell village.

Boardwalk through mangroves at Orongo Bay.

Tikitikioure mountain.

Manganese boulders.

Orongo Bay

Entrance to Uruti Rd boardwalk

Uruti Rd wetland

Russell Wharf for catching passenger ferry to Paihia.