Tunnel Point, perhaps the most isolated spot on the Auckland mainland, offers a wild – yet peaceful – place to camp. 

This rewarding 20km link-up begins on the gravelled Karamatura Track, which gently climbs the valley. After approximately 1.5km there’s a short detour to the Karamatura Falls. This is the last water until Whatipū.

After 1.8km along the Karamatura Track there’s a plethora of steps. The track eventually flattens off and leads through clusters of kiekie, nīkau and ponga to a boardwalk protecting several large kauri. This is the trip’s highest point – 410m.

Follow the boardwalk to the left onto Donald McLean Track, which meets Pūriri Ridge Track after roughly 30min. View-hunters can take a small side trip to the summit of Te Rau o te Huia Mt Donald McLean

Approximately 15min southbound on Pūriri Ridge, the trees open to show the dense Whatipū Valley and the beach beyond. Then it’s back beneath the canopy and a descent to Whatipū Road. Cross the road and start the Ōmanawanui Track.

Boardwalks and steps weave between large kauri stands towards Whatipū Road. Then, after two boot-wash stations, keep left and continue on the track, which opens to reveal views of Manukau Harbour and the Tasman Sea.The track ascends steeply over a rocky ridge, passing a sheer drop, to the summit of Ōmanawanui (A9RC) at around the 9km mark. At 241m, it offers a panoramic view. 

A series of steps descends about 100m and a chain aids safe scrambling over a large rock face. More steps and a twisting descent lead to Whatipū. Once through another cleaning station, take a left and walk 60m until the track turns to sand at another junction. Turn right and cross the bridge over Whatipū Stream to an information point, where there are toilets.

Gibbons Track begins here and goes around the campground before crossing a small stream to the forest. At the forks, stay right to climb steeply to Mt Gillies. After Pt225 the track follows the flatter ridge, allowing for fast travel. 

Continue to Muir Track, which descends a stream valley to reach Pararaha Valley where there is a campsite, toilets, cooking shelter and untreated water supply. This was once a Māori pā.

Head west on Pararaha Valley Track, cross a gigantic wooden footbridge and follow Pararaha Stream to a wetland. Boardwalks lead over the swamp towards large black sand dunes.  Hillary Trail batons mark the way, but it soon turns into an obvious 4WD track.

After approximately 15min of soft sand, take the right fork at the junction and head over a small brow to Tunnel Point Campground. 

Return via the same route or walk the beach back to Whatipū.