Are there public toilets at Te Mata Peak?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there are public toilets at the main Te Mata Park entrance off Te Mata Peak Road and at the Tauroa Road entrance.
Hastings Questions
Hastings people helping Hastings people. Ask about any place, or answer one for a local.
Which place is it about?
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Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
Is the ride up Te Mata doable for someone of average fitness, or is it a real grind?
Can I take my dog for a walk at Mohi Bush?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
No, dogs aren't allowed at Mohi Bush Scenic Reserve, so leave them at home.
How muddy does the track and grass carpark get after a few days of rain?
Is there parking at the Clifton end of the walk?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a car park at the Clifton trailhead, along with a café and a motor camp. Once you're out on the beach there are no facilities.
How long does the walk really take if you stop at the gannets, and is the tide timing tight?
Is the water at Poutaki Hut safe to drink straight from the tap?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
No, boil it before drinking. The tap water at Poutaki Hut is untreated.
Is there much room to park at the road end, or does it fill up at weekends?
How much does a night at Longview Hut cost?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Adults pay $25 a night from 1 May to 30 September, and from $28 a night between 1 October and 30 April. Children 5 to 17 pay $12.50 in winter, and infants are free.
Has anyone taken primary age kids up to Longview Hut? How did they go on the climb?
How high above sea level is Manson Hut?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Manson Hut is at 1280 metres. It sits on a level site below a ridge, at the edge of a steep stream gully.
Are there toilets at the trailhead or do you have to wait until the hut?
Is there somewhere to park at the A'Deanes Bush entrance?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there is parking at the roadside entrance on Makaretu Road, 1 km past Sherwood School.
Has anyone taken a wheelchair around the loop? Wondering how the surface is after rain.
Is there a toilet at the North Block Road car park for the Sunrise Hut Track?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there is a toilet at the North Block Road car park. Sunrise Hut also has a long-drop toilet.
How much of the climb to Sunrise Hut is in shade? Planning to walk up on a warm day.
What time do the gates to the Ocean Beach car park close at night?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
The gates close every day from 8pm to 6am, so you can't drive into the car park overnight. Plan to be back at your vehicle before 8pm.
Is Ocean Beach okay for beginner surfers, or is the surf too powerful?
Where do I park for the Ātea a Rangi star compass?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Use the northern Waitangi entrance off State Highway 2. It leads straight to the star compass and has parking, about 10 minutes' drive from both Napier and Hastings.
Is there much shade on the wetland paths in the afternoon?
Are there picnic spots at Kuripapango on the Ngaruroro?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, Kuripapango on the Napier-Taihape Road has picnic areas. The driveway to the Department of Conservation lodge there also gives you a way into the river.
Is there a deep spot along the Ngaruroro near Hastings where people jump in?
Is there anywhere to sit at Lawrie Cooke Reserve?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the reserve has seating. There are no public toilets on site, so plan around that if you have little ones.
Is the playground fenced at all, or is it open to Matariki Avenue?
How many bunks does Makahu Saddle Hut have?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Four bunks. The hut also has an open fireplace, a long-drop toilet, a stream water supply and a meat safe.
Is there usually space in the Makahu Saddle carpark on a weekend?
Are there public toilets at the Havelock North Village Green?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the Village Green in the heart of Havelock North has public toilets, along with seating. It is an easy stop before or after the heritage walk.
Is there much shade along the heritage trail on a hot summer afternoon?
Do I need a 4WD to drive to the Kaweka Lakes carpark?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
4WD is recommended on the roads in Kaweka Forest Park, for safe travel and to reduce wear on the road. Take it slowly and check road conditions before you set off.
Is the water shallow enough at the edge for little kids to paddle?
Are there public toilets at William Nelson Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there are public toilets at the park, but they are closed at night.
Are there proper picnic tables here, or do you need to bring a rug for the grass?
Can you get fish and chips at Waimārama?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the general store in Waimārama does fish and chips, and they have a great reputation locally.
Is there anywhere to rinse off after a surf, like outdoor showers near the beach?
Is there a drinking fountain at St Aubyn Street Reserve?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a drinking fountain at the playground on the Hinau Street leg of the park. Seating and shade sails are there too.
Is the playground fenced, or is it open to the street?
Is the playground at Windsor Park fully fenced?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the playground at Windsor Park is fully fenced. It has a pirate ship, slides, swings, a seesaw, a climbing web and a large climbing frame.
Is there any free water play at Windsor Park itself, or only at Splash Planet next door?
Is there a playground for kids at Evers-Swindell Reserve in Clive?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, Evers-Swindell Reserve has a playground with swings, balance beams and stepping logs. There are also picnic tables, and it sits right beside the cycle path.
Is there much shade by the water at Evers-Swindell Reserve on a hot afternoon?
Can I keep driving from Putere Lakes through to Lake Waikaremoana?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, follow Putere Road, Waireka Road and Waihi Road through to the lake. The route is largely unsealed, so only drive it in good weather and take care.
Is there any shade near the water in the afternoon, or is it all open farmland?
How do I get onto the Karituwhenua Stream Walkway from Palmbrook Reserve?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Head to the walkway entrance opposite the reserve on Te Mata Road. That is the access point for the Karituwhenua Stream Walkway.
Is the playground fenced at all, or is it open to the paths?
Are there public toilets at Ebbett Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there is a unisex public toilet at the park. It was added in the 2020 upgrade.
Does the playground hold the interest of older kids, say 8 to 12 year olds, or is it mostly for little ones?
Are there public toilets at Havelock North Village Green?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there are public toilets at the Village Green. The Mackersey Family Pavilion has toilets too, but those come with hiring the pavilion's main room.
Does the playground keep kids aged 8 to 12 interested, or is it more for little ones?
Are there picnic tables at Romanes Drive Reserve?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there is a picnic table at the reserve, and the park has lots of green space around it for picnics.
Is there any water play at the playground for hot summer days?
How much does a ride on the Keirunga miniature railway cost?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Rides are $2 each, or $20 for a 12 ride ticket. Under 2s and teddy bears ride free, and you can pay by cash or Eftpos.
Is there a drinking tap near the playground or should I bring water?
Where do you park for the Hereheretau Road rockslide?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Park next to the road, then follow the path down to Makaretu Stream. The rockslide and pond-like swimming hole are on the left-hand side of Hereheretau Road.
Is there much shade around the pool in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
Is there a disc golf course at Flaxmere Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a nine-hole disc golf course in the park. It gets used for casual games as well as organised ones.
Are the picnic tables in the shade or out in the sun by the afternoon?
Are there picnic tables at Civic Square in Hastings?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a picnic table on the large grassed area, with mature shade trees around it. The small fenced playground is in the same square.
Is there a drinking fountain anywhere in the square, or do you need to bring water?
Where exactly is Whenua Takoha Reserve in Raureka?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
It's on the north corner of Cobham Street and Cobham Place, in Hastings.
Does the playground get any shade in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
Which road do I take to get into Eskdale Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
The entrance is on Shaw Road, which turns off State Highway 5, the Napier-Taupo Road.
Do people bring dogs down to the river here, and are they kept on leads?
Does the Te Awanga Domain playground have fencing?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the upgraded playground has new fencing. The upgrade also added new seating, shade and improved safety surfacing.
Is it easy to get a pram from the car park to the playground and across to the beach?
Who manages Waimārama Domain?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Hastings District Council manages it as a recreation reserve under the Reserves Act. Maintenance covers the public facilities and environmental care along the coast, including the dune areas.
Is there drinking water at the domain or should I bring my own?
Which streets can you get into Len Harlen Park from?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
You can enter from Flaxmere Avenue, Ramsey Crescent, Peary Crescent and Kingsley Drive in Flaxmere. It is a big park with four street entrances, not just one corner.
Is there any decent shade near the playground or on the grass in the afternoon?
Is there a picnic table or seating near the playground at Akina Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a picnic table and seating near the small playground by the Willowpark Road entrance, so you can combine playtime with a snack or a rest.
Is the playground at Akina Park fenced off from the road and the sports fields?
Is the BBQ at Puketapu Park free to use?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the BBQ at Puketapu Park is free to use. There are also picnic tables and toilets on site.
Is the playground fenced off from the river and the car park?
Do I need to display my self-containment warrant when parking overnight?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes. A current self-containment warrant must be displayed on the inside left of the front window or windshield, with the details facing outward so they can be read from outside.
Is the car park at the playground end level enough for sleeping in a campervan?
Are there any public toilets at Hugh Little Park in Flaxmere?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
No, there are no public toilets at Hugh Little Park, so it's worth going before you arrive if you're staying a while with kids.
Is the playground fenced, or is it open to the road?
What is there for kids at the Farndon Park playground?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
The playground has swings, seesaws, a large climbing frame and slides.
Is there much shade around the playground in the afternoon?
Does the playground at Cornwall Park have a splash pad?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a splash pad. The playground also has swings, a 10m climbing tower with rope bridges, mini-trampolines, slides and monkey bars.
Is the playground fenced all the way round, or open to the lawns and roads?
What sports courts and fields are at Haumoana Memorial Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
There are courts for tennis, basketball, netball and pickleball, plus space for cricket and junior football. The playground also has a small skate plaza.
Can kids who use a wheelchair or walker get onto the playground equipment okay?
Which streets can I enter Chatham Park from in Flaxmere?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
You can enter from Chatham Road or Margate Avenue, so there are two ways into the park.
Is the playground fenced off from Chatham Road and the sports fields?
Is there a drinking fountain at Ron Giorgi III Park playground?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there is a drinking fountain at the playground. It also has seating for caregivers and a shade sail.
Is there anywhere for kids to splash or play with water here on hot days?
How long is the Wineries Ride near Hastings, and how long does it take?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
The Wineries Ride is 36 to 47 km and graded easiest. Allow about 3 to 5 hours to ride it.
Is there anywhere to fill a water bottle along the trail, or should I carry it all?
What type of bike do I need for the Hawke's Bay Trails?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Pretty much any bike works. The trails are flat and mostly off-road, so pathway, touring, mountain and electric bikes are all well suited.
Where do you park for the start in Havelock North, and is it hard to find a spot on weekends?
Are there public toilets at Frimley Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there are public toilets, but they are closed at night. The sports ground toilets are only open during organised sporting events.
Is the Frimley Park playground fenced all the way round?
Is the Puketapu Loop sealed or is it gravel?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
It's mostly lime sand paths rather than sealed, with a few on-road sections. The grade is 1 to 2, easiest to easy, so it's an gentle ride.
How busy does it get with walkers, and is it easy to pass them on the lime sand paths?
Is the Tukituki River Trail sealed or is it a loose surface?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
It's not sealed. The trail is mostly limestone pathway along the top of stopbanks, with some on-road connections between Waipukurau and Waipawa.
Are there any toilets along the trail, or should I go before I set off?
Is there somewhere for parents to sit at Grant Street Reserve?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there is seating at the playground, and extra seating for parents and caregivers was added in the upgrade completed in September 2025.
Is there a drinking tap anywhere near the Grant Street playground?
Can I hire an e-bike for the Tukituki Loop?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, you can hire pathway, mountain and e-bikes from operators in Hastings and Havelock North.
Is there drinking water on the route or do you need to carry it all?
Is there a car park at the start of the Pekapeka Wetlands walk?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a car park right beside State Highway 2, and the track connects directly to it.
Is the track smooth enough for a pram all the way up to the lookout?
Is Lake Tūtira safe to swim in?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
No, the lakes are unsuitable for swimming because of periodic algal blooms and duck itch. Signs around the lake give swimming risk information.
Is there much shade around the lake on a hot afternoon?
Are there public toilets at Maraetotara Falls?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the reserve has public toilets. There is no seating listed, so bring something to sit on if you plan to picnic by the river.
Can you get a pram down to the falls, or is it all stairs?
Are there any plants or insects to watch out for around Shine Falls?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, watch for wasps and ongaonga, the native stinging nettle. Avoid touching the ongaonga, and carry allergy medication if you react to stings.
How muddy or slippery does the track get after rain? Are proper boots needed?
Are dogs allowed at Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
No, dogs aren't allowed at Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve, so leave them at home.
Is the track to Te Ana Falls okay for a pram, or too rough and muddy?
Can I hire a bike for the Wineries Ride?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, bike hire is available at convenient spots near the route, so you don't need to bring your own.
Is the trail surface sealed or gravel? Would a road bike cope?
Are there public toilets at Waipatiki near the beach?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the open domain area that leads down to the beachfront has public toilets, along with a picnic table.
Is Waipatiki a good spot for beginner surfers, or is it better for experienced ones?
Does the gallery run guided talks?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the monthly Meet Me at the Gallery guided talks are free and drop-in, so there's no need to book.
Are there info panels beside the artworks, or do you need to ask staff what you're looking at?
Is there a stretch of Haumoana beachfront where dogs can't be off-lead?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
The off-lead dog area runs from the Tukituki River mouth south to the Clifton No. 2 camp at Te Awanga, but skips the beachfront between numbers 3 and 41 Clifton Road, Haumoana.
Is there anywhere to rinse off after a surf, like a shower or tap near the beach?
Does Havelock North library have free wifi?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the Hastings District Libraries, including the Havelock North branch, offer free WiFi.
Is it easy to find a quiet spot to study after school or on a Saturday?
Are there quiet study areas at Flaxmere Library?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there are dedicated study areas for quiet focused work or group projects. Public computers are also available for online databases and research.
Is the parking close to the door, or is it a bit of a walk from the car park?
Is there a car park at Pākōwhai Regional Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there is a paved off-street car park, and a mobile café is often there.
Does anyone get moved on if they stay overnight in a van here?
Can I run a generator when freedom camping at Puketapu Domain?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, but only for a maximum of two hours a day, and only between 8am and 8pm. Keep that in mind if you're parked near other campers.
How many vans usually stay here on a weekend, and does it fill up?
Where in Cornwall Park is the Osmanthus Garden?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
The Osmanthus Garden sits in the south-west corner of Cornwall Park in Hastings.
Is it okay for young kids, with the pond and the bridges?
Are there public toilets near the John Holt display house in Cornwall Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, Cornwall Park has public toilets. There is also a playground and picnic areas with tables in the park.
Are there signs or panels inside explaining what the plants are?
Am I allowed to run a generator at Clifton Road Reserve?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, but only for up to two hours a day, between 8 am and 8 pm. Outside those hours the generator needs to be off.
How full does Clifton Road Reserve get on a summer weekend, and what time do you need to arrive?
Is there a dairy or somewhere to grab a coffee near Haumoana Domain?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the small beach area at Haumoana Domain has a dairy, a hotel and a coffee cart, so you can pick up basics and a coffee without going far.
Are the toilets at Haumoana Domain left open overnight?
Who designed the old tea kiosk in Cornwall Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Architect Harold Davies designed it. The building opened in 1929 as the park's tea kiosk and is now the Te Mākaramū / The Meeting Room venue.
Are there any information panels inside or outside about the kiosk's history?
Is the Hawke's Bay Opera House a heritage listed building?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the Opera House holds Category 1 heritage status. It was earthquake strengthened and sensitively restored before reopening in February 2020.
Can you have a look around the Opera House on a day with no show, or is it tickets only?
Where is the fountain in Cornwall Park and how do I get to it?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
It sits roughly in the middle of Cornwall Park. The main footpath from the Tomoana Road gates runs close by.
Are there toilets close to the fountain, or is it a walk across the park?
Is there drinking water at Dartmoor Bridge Reserve?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
No. The reserve has no facilities at all, so bring your own drinking water. The bore water in Puketapu Domain is the one nearby, and it isn't suitable for drinking either.
How many vans usually park here on a weekend, and does it fill up early?
How long should I allow for the Cape Kidnappers beach walk from Clifton?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Allow at least 5 hours for a comfortable return walk from Scotmans Point. It can only be done at low tide, so leave no sooner than three hours after high tide.
Are there any picnic tables at Clifton Beach or is it just seats?
Can I ride an e-bike on the Water Ride?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, e-bikes are allowed as long as they are under 300W power. The trails are flat and easy, so e-bikes work fine, and riders can cover big distances on one battery charge.
Is there anywhere to fill up a water bottle along the route?
Is there a pump track at Kirkpatrick Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, a pop-up pump track will be at the park while the new playground is being built, so kids have something to ride and play on in the meantime.
Is it easy to get a pram around Kirkpatrick Park and up to the playground?
What are the opening hours at the Hastings Arts Centre?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
It's open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 4pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm, at 106 Russell Street South.
Are there toilets inside the arts centre, or do you need to find public ones nearby?
Is there a playground in Civic Square near the pou?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a small fenced playground with swings, climbing frames and slides. The square also has a big grassed area with shade trees, and the Hastings War Memorial Library is right there.
Is there any shelter near the pou if it rains, or is it all open?
Can you walk along Ocean Beach all the way to Waimārama?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, Waimārama is 7.5 km south along the beach, and allow about 4.5 hours return. Check tide times before you go and tell someone where you are walking.
Does the car park at the end of the road fill up on summer weekends?
Do I have to cross a river to get to Yeoman's Track from Wakarara Road?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, you have to cross the Makaroro River. Follow the orange-marked poled route through the paddock down to the river. Don't try it when the water is higher than normal, as it's dangerous.
Is Yeoman's Track manageable for primary school kids, or is it too long?
Where can I start the Wineries Ride from?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Start at Hastings Golf Club or Roys Hill near Fernhill, as it's a loop and you can join from several places. The golf club welcomes cyclists and has a cafe, bike racks and toilets.
Do you share the trail with many walkers, or is it mostly other cyclists?
How far is the drive from Hastings to Masters Shelter?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
More than 45 km. Big Hill Road alone is about 45 km from Hastings, and the Mangleton Road turn-off comes after that, so the start is further along.
Is there any shade once you're out on the rocky knolls on a sunny day?
Is there a boat ramp near the Clive River mouth?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the boat ramp is at Clive, reached through Evers-Swindell Reserve. Parking is available there, and the cycle trail and horse trail start from the same reserve.
How long is the walk from the Waitangi car park out to the gravel bar at the mouth?
Whereabouts in Flaxmere Park is the skate plaza?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
The skate plaza is in Flaxmere Park, on the corner of Henderson Road and Swansea Road in Hastings.
Are there any seats or benches near the plaza for parents to sit and watch?
Are there public toilets at the William Nelson skate plaza?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there are public toilets in William Nelson Park, but they are closed at night, so don't rely on them after the park shuts.
Is there a pump track at William Nelson Park, or is it just the skate plaza?
Are there toilets and changing rooms at Kairakau Beach?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, Kairakau Beach has toilets and changing facilities. There is also a picnic area, a playground and car parking.
Is there anywhere to rinse off after a swim, like a shower or tap?
Are there public toilets at Blackhead Beach?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there are public toilets at the Blackhead Beach campground. Plan to use those before or after your beach time.
Is there anywhere to rinse off after a surf or swim at Blackhead?
Does a freedom camping permit at Pourērere cost anything?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
No, the freedom camping permit is free. Koha (voluntary donations) is welcome to help with site maintenance and future improvements.
Is there anywhere to rinse off after a swim at Pourērere?
What birds can I expect to see or hear in Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Tūī, bellbirds and kererū, along with other common native birds, live in the bush here.
Is there room to park near the stile on Kairakau Road, or is it roadside?
What kind of wading boots should I wear on the Ngaruroro?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Rubber-soled boots, ideally studded, are close to essential because of the slime on the rocks. A wading staff also helps on the braids.
Is there a boat ramp anywhere on the lower Ngaruroro, or do people just launch off the bank?
How long is the beach walk to the river mouth at Te Paerahi?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
It's about 4 km to the river mouth, so roughly 8 km for the return trip.
Is Te Paerahi a decent spot for a beginner to learn to surf, or better for experienced surfers?
Is there parking near the Tukituki River access points?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, Riverlands Park on River Road has plenty of parking. The other access points have smaller parking areas.
How rough is the walk from the car to the water at Tennant Road?
Are there toilets at Lake Tūtira, and is there drinking water?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there are compost toilets, but toilet paper can run out so bring your own. The taps are for handwashing only, so bring drinking water. There is no kitchen or shower.
How long is the walk from the car to the water at the northern end, and is it easy going?
How many bunks does Ruahine Hut have, and is there heating?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Ruahine Hut is a standard hut with 8 bunks, mattresses and heating. The toilets are non-flush, and the tap water isn't treated, so boil it before drinking.
Is there room to park at the track starts along No Man's Road, or is it tight?
Are there toilets at Aramoana Beach?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there are public toilets at Aramoana Beach. There is also a car park and a picnic area.
Is the surf at Aramoana okay for beginners, or better left to experienced surfers?
Is there a playground at Romanes Park for younger kids?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a playground with swings and a climbing frame. The park also has a picnic table, adult fitness equipment, a football field and plenty of green space.
Is there any shade near the tracks on a hot afternoon?
Is there parking at the All-Wheels Pump Track in Romanes Park?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, Romanes Park has car parking, and the pump track is in the park beside the BMX track. The park also has a public toilet and a playground.
Is there a drinking tap near the pump track, or should I bring my own water?
Is the riverbed sandy or stony at Walker Road on the Tukituki?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
It's stony. The Walker Road site is cobble dominated, so expect a cobbly riverbed rather than sand.
Is there any shade by the river at Walker Road in the afternoon?
How long is the walk from the Maraetotara Falls car park to the falls?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
It's about 10 minutes from the car park on Maraetotara Road. You go down the wooden stairs and follow the Maraetotara Historic Walk to the base of the waterfall.
Can you take a dog fishing along the Maraetotara, or is it all stock paddocks?
Are there any good views on the way up?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, open rocky knolls about 50 minutes up give excellent views. From there the track climbs through beech forest for about 1.5 hours to meet the track along the top of the range.
How much shade is there on the climb on a hot afternoon?
Which road do I take to get to Makahu Saddle?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Take Kaweka Road, which is off Whittle Road about 64 km west of Napier. It also gives access to Ferny Ridge, Littles Clearing and the Black Birch Range.
How much shade is there on the tracks on a hot summer day?
Can Comet Road be closed on the way to the Shutes Hut track?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, there's a forestry gate at the start of Comet Road that can be shut when road conditions are unsafe. If the road is closed, an alert is posted on the track page.
Are there any steep sections on the way down to the Taruarau River?
Where do I park for the Mohi Bush walk?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Park on the grass in front of the shelter. The reserve is 2 km along Waipoapoa Road from Maraetotara Road. Leave any gates as you found them.
Is the Elsthorpe loop okay with a pram, or is it too rough in places?
Is Balls Clearing a good spot for a family outing with kids?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the short walks suit families and take 10 to 40 minutes. The entrance has picnic shelters, a large grassed area, toilets and water.
Are there any steep bits on the tracks, or is it mostly flat?
Which heritage walk goes past the Toitoi Opera House in Hastings?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
The East walk. It passes the former Hastings Municipal Theatre, now the Toitoi Opera House, which opened in 1915 with an Art Nouveau interior.
Is it easy to find parking near the Clock Tower on a weekday?
Where do I find Shine Falls at Boundary Stream?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Shine Falls is at the northern end of the reserve, off Heays Access Road. At 58 m it is the highest waterfall in Hawke's Bay.
Is the Tūmanako Loop doable with a pram, or is it too rough?
Can I cycle to Clifton Beach from Hastings or Napier?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the Hawke's Bay Trails cycle trail links Clifton with both Hastings and Napier, so you can ride in without taking the car.
Is there a working toilet anywhere near the ramp now the camp is shut?
Is the road into Lake Opouahi sealed all the way?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
No, the final section is unsealed gravel, narrow and winding, and steep in places. Stay left, keep your headlights on and drive to the conditions.
How much shade is there on the lake walk on a hot afternoon?
Where can I hire a bike for the Hawke's Bay Trails?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Napier has several hire places: Bike About Tours Napier, Napier City Bike Hire and Takaro Trails. The Water Ride at Ahuriri is close to them.
Is it easy to find a car park at Roy's Hill Reserve on a weekend?
Which direction is best for the short loop at White Pine Bush?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Anticlockwise is the better way round, because more of the short loop is downhill in that direction.
Is the car park easy to get in and out of from the highway, and does it fill up?
What sort of beach is Waimārama, sandy or rocky?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
It's a sandy, open beach facing the Pacific Ocean, with good surf.
Do people bring dogs when fishing the beach here, and is it fine with others?
Is it native bush or mostly exotic trees in the reserves?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Mostly mature exotic trees. There are pockets of native planting done by volunteers in recent years, but it isn't native bush throughout.
How easy is it to find a park near the entrances on a weekend?
Why does everyone say to stay off the gravel ridge along the Haumoana beach?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
The gravel ridge is a vital defence from the sea. Without it, large areas of Napier City and some of Hastings District would be regularly flooded.
Could someone in a wheelchair get near the water from the Domain Road car park?
Do any heritage walks start from the Hastings clock tower?
The Fruit BowlCity guide
Yes, the clock tower is the starting point for both Central Hastings Heritage Walks, East and West. There is a booklet for the walks that you can download online.
Do the chimes ring on the hour and can you hear them over the mall traffic?
Nothing here right now.