I walked the Mahurangi Farm-Forestry Trail on a beautiful cloudless summer day in late February with a lovely group from my local gym and it was a delightful experience perfect for families. Starting from the Parsley Pot Cafe, this well-maintained trail offers a gentle walk through regenerating native bush alongside Duck Creek, with plenty of surprises along the way.
The highlight for us was getting up close with friendly cows in the paddocks and picking ripe blackberries along the trail, a real treat on a summer walk! The kids loved exploring the small stream and were thrilled to discover a small waterfall just before the turnaround point. The trail is clearly well looked after by the local community, making it an easy and enjoyable walk for all ages.
Parking tip: We parked at Parsley Pot Cafe, but it’s courteous to ask permission first if you’re planning to walk rather than patronise the cafe. There’s also a small paddock at the very beginning of the track where you could fit a couple of cars.
Best time to visit: Summer months for blackberry picking and pleasant walking conditions
Note: The trail is on private land and borders a working farm. Please respect the property and keep dogs under control at all times.
The Mahurangi Farm-Forestry Trail is a hidden gem that connects Parsley Pot Cafe to the Hamilton Road bridge. Inspired by the need to protect the Duck Creek catchment, this 1.1-kilometre trail (one way) provides access to regenerating tōtara and demonstrates various exotic and indigenous farm forestry practices.
Family-Friendly Features:
For Nature Lovers: The trail showcases various tree species including tōtara regeneration, eucalyptus stands, and native bush sections. Duck Creek runs clear over a sandstone bed, shaded by tōtara trees, creating a beautiful natural setting.
From Auckland: Drive north on State Highway 1, take the Mahurangi Regional Park turnoff (approximately 50 minutes from Auckland Harbour Bridge). Continue to Snells Beach and follow Sandspit Road to Parsley Pot Cafe.
Parking:
The Farm-Forestry Trail is an out-and-back walk that follows Duck Creek through a mix of regenerating native bush, farm forestry demonstrations, and open farmland. The trail features:
Turnaround Point: A small waterfall marks the end of the maintained trail where you return via the same route.
The Farm-Forestry Concept: This trail was conceived not only to protect the Duck Creek catchment but also to demonstrate sustainable land use options. It showcases both exotic and indigenous farm forestry, establishing a precedent for larger networks of cycle and walkways throughout the Mahurangi region.
Seasonal Highlights:
Conservation: The trail is maintained by local volunteers and the Mahurangi community. The riparian margins have been fenced and planted with indigenous species, creating habitat for native birds and helping to protect water quality in Duck Creek.
Tree Species to Look For:
Safety Notes:
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