Last Updated on: 13 May 2025

Homunga Bay Walk Guide 2025: Insider Tips, Maps & Planning

Why walk the Homunga Bay Track?

I’d been eyeing Homunga Bay for months. Tucked between the more famous Orokawa Bay and the farmland-draped hills beyond, it had that elusive blend of coastal wildness and remoteness that I crave in a good walk. So one summer morning, pack loaded and coffee in hand, I set off from Waihi Beach with a mission: make it to Homunga Bay, have a swim, and see what all the quiet fuss was about.

What I found exceeded my expectations. The walk itself was a rollercoaster of shady bush tracks, cliff-hugging views, and the occasional “wait, is that a goat track or the trail?” moment. And then, finally, that descent into Homunga Bay a wide sweep of sand, a waterfall whispering at the edge, and not another soul in sight.

“Homunga Bay is what I call a ‘pocket paradise’. Close enough for a day trip, remote enough to feel like an adventure.” – Sandra, Freewalks walking specialist

This isn’t a walk you stumble upon it’s one you plan for, and it rewards you for doing so. It’s a little challenging, a lot scenic, and absolutely worth the effort.

Enjoy our 360 view of Homunga Bay.

🥾 Walk Overview

Location: Waihi Beach, Bay of Plenty
Nearest town: Waihi Beach (10 mins drive)
Distance: 10 km return from Waihi Beach to Homunga Bay (via Orokawa)
Time required: 2.5–3.5 hours return
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Track type: Out-and-back
Dog-friendly: No
Kid-friendly: Yes (ages 8+ recommended)
Wheelchair accessible: No
Toilets nearby: Yes – at start, Orokawa Bay, and near Boat Bay
Best time to go: Summer or early autumn mornings (avoid high sun & high tide)
Are drones allowed? Yes, but respect privacy & noise rules
Are bikes allowed? No

Map location

🚗 Getting There

  • Car park location: End of The Esplanade, Waihi Beach (North End car park)
  • Parking availability: Room for ~40 cars. Unshaded. Free parking.
  • Public transport options: No direct public transport. Taxi or shuttle options available from Waihi town or Katikati.
  • Entry fees / permits required: None
  • Signage to the start of the walk: Clear DOC signage at carpark with basic map

🥾 Track Details

  • Track surface: Dirt, root-covered bush track, rocky sections, beach sand, occasional cutty grass
  • Track condition: Generally well-maintained but slippery after rain; some overgrown areas
  • Elevation gain: Moderate – several steepish climbs between Orokawa and Homunga
  • Estimated pace: Moderate fitness required
  • Alternative routes
    • Shorter option: Just walk to Orokawa Bay (45 mins one way)
    • Longer option: Continue past Homunga to Ngatitangata Road (1 hr one-way; car shuffle recommended)

🌿 What You'll See

  • Ancient pōhutukawa groves (best in December bloom)
  • Coastal cliffs and panoramic sea views
  • Boat Bay (look behind you for the best shots!)
  • Little waterfall at Homunga Bay
  • Native birds: tūī, kererū, pīwakawaka
  • Orokawa Bay – a gem on its own
  • Wild, sandy Homunga Bay (perfect picnic or swim spot)

Walk Directions

  1. From the North End car park, walk north toward the hill.
    • At low tide, you’ll stay dry to the start.
    • At high tide with an offshore breeze, you’ll get wet feet—go barefoot for the 15-metre dash.
  2. A sign and a basic map mark the beginning of the trail.
  3. Climb the bush-lined track. After 25 minutes, reach a lookout with views back to the beach.
  4. Five minutes later, descend into Orokawa Bay.
    • Toilet is on the right before the beach—look for the roof as you descend.
  5. Cross the beach or upper track to the creek at the far end.
  6. Cross the creek and look left/up—you’ll see the Homunga Bay track sign heading back into the bush.
  7. Continue through overgrown cutty grass to the second and last toilet (near Boat Bay).
  8. The track improves—keep looking back for photo-worthy views of Boat Bay.
  9. Cross a clearing—only 17 minutes to go!
  10. Reach Homunga Bay after about 2 hrs 15 mins total walk time.

 

Bonus: If you’ve arranged a pickup, continue on the marked trail to Ngatitangata Rd (1 hour walk, easier than returning the same way).

🧽 Navigation & Safety

  • Phone reception: Patchy to poor beyond Orokawa Bay 
  • Map needed? Not essential, but note the turnoffs at Orokawa
  • Common wrong turns? Missing re-entry to Homunga track after creek at Orokawa
  • Weather considerations:
    • Slippery after rain
    • Hot in full sun—go early
    • Sandflies at Homunga (legendary numbers!)

🧲 What to Bring

  • Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners
  • Water: 1–2 litres per person – no drinkable water available
  • Snacks or lunch: Perfect spot to picnic at Homunga Bay
  • Sun/weather protection: Hat, sunscreen, raincoat if changeable
  • Insect repellent: YES. The sandflies will test your patience.
  • Optional extras: Swimmers, towel, camera, surfcasting rod (if you can carry it!)

🍽 Nearby Facilities

  • Closest café: Flatwhite Café – beachfront at Waihi Beach; ideal post-walk bite
  • Picnic tables or shade: Natural shade under pōhutukawa at both Orokawa and Homunga
  • Playgrounds nearby: Waihi Beach Domain – great for kids pre/post walk
  • Accommodation: Waihi Beach has motels, baches, campgrounds within 5–10 minutes

Insider Tips

  • Go early on weekdays to avoid crowds and mid-summer heat
  • December pōhutukawa bloom makes it feel like Christmas in paradise
  • Homunga Bay is a great surfcasting spot—take a rod if you’re up for it
  • Use the creek crossing at Orokawa as your landmark for the Homunga track
  • If returning via Ngatitangata Rd, the green/yellow markers make navigation easy
  • Look back for the best views of Boat Bay don’t just charge forward!

📍 Useful Links

👤 My Experience on This Walk

  • Date of walk: January 2025 Weather: Clear skies, dry underfoot, sea breeze
  • What I loved: The total isolation of Homunga despite being so close to town
  • Unexpected moment: Kererū bombing past me with a thunderclap of wings
    • Tips: Bring extra water and don’t forget the repellent

🖋️ Final Thoughts

What stood out the most: The contrast—from bustling Waihi Beach to the calm, wind-swept remoteness of Homunga—makes this one of the best half-day adventures in the Bay of Plenty.

Who I’d recommend this walk for: Confident walkers, bird lovers, beach bums, and anyone who wants a taste of the wild coast without an overnight pack.

Would I do it again? Absolutely. I might even plan a pickup next time and bring a rod for a beachside dinner.

What I’d do differently next time: Stay longer at Homunga. That beach deserves more than a brief visit.

“The Homunga Track is a gem. Just don’t underestimate it—it’s got climbs, roots, and slippery bits. But that’s what keeps it wild.” – Sandra, Freewalks walking specialist

“I’ve hiked all over NZ and Homunga was a surprise. Stunning, quiet, and with just enough challenge to feel earned.” – Tom R., Wellington, walked February 2025

FAQs

Can I camp at Homunga Bay?

No – it’s not a DOC campsite and camping is not permitted. You can’t camp on any of the beaches either.

Is the walk suitable for young kids?

Only for confident walkers aged 8+. It’s not stroller-friendly and some cliff sections require care.

Can I fish at Homunga Bay?

Yes – it’s a great surfcasting spot. Bring your gear in, and keep an eye on tides.

Photos of my walk

See more of my walks in Waihi