Marios Gavalas
Author And Researcher
I'm Marios, delivering the best of Aotearoa's nature walks to your device.
I've personally walked hundreds of New Zealand's tracks and spent months in libraries uncovering interesting information on New Zealand/Aotearoa. And you'll find a slice of that research on this page - enjoy!
700 m return | 40 minutes return
The conical shape of Tokatoka is the eroded stump of a former volcanic cone. It lies as a prominent high point in the vast flood plain of the Wairoa River, which threads a sinuous course past the peak. The Tutamoe Range and Tangihua Range are visible on the distant horizon to the north-east.
From Dargaville, follow S.H.12 17km south to Tokatoka and turn left into Tokatoka Road (unsealed). Follow it 1km to a small parking bay on the left, from where the start of the track is signposted.
The track surface is variable from grass, roots, soil and rock. The track ascends continuously; nearing the top there is a particularly steep but short climb of 20 metres before the summit. From the top of this peak, the near 360-degree views are stunning. It almost feels like being on top of the world and makes the 20-minute climb well worth it. You get great views up to Dargaville and back down the Kaipara, and on a clear day, you are able to see Bream Head and Tangihua range towards the east.
Caution
* This is a very exposed area; with a steep ascend over rocks. Take extreme caution at the top as the drop off is steep and there are no handrails, especially if you suffer from vertigo or are scared of heights.
* If you are taking children on this track it is recommended that you must supervise the children at all times.
* The track becomes very slippery after rain. Please take extreme care.
Tokatoka is associated with chief Taoho of Te Roroa hapu around the beginning of the 1800s. The impregnable site was witness to smoke signals from Maunganui Bluff, warning of Hongi Hika’s approaching war party. With his Ngati Whatua warriors, he was able to ambush and defeat the invaders.
After a visit to Ripiro Beach to feed on toheroa, five mountain brothers, who had journeyed from the east, tried valiantly to re-cross the mighty Wairoa River. Tokatoka and Maungaraho crossed, and waited for Motu-wheteke to pluck up the courage. Okiri-ahi struggled, drowned and became a reef. Te Kewi-pahu-tai only just made the crossing and stands on the river’s edge. This legend explains some of the sacred hills in the region.
Feature | Value | Info |
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Organisation |
DOC NorthlandCentral government organisation |
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Location |
North Island ▷ Northland ▷ Dargaville |
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Categories |
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Directions To Coordinates |
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Coordinates |