Awaroa to Tōtaranui
The official 7.1 km tidal Great Walk stage from Awaroa to Tōtaranui.
Route overview
Cross Awaroa Inlet at low tide and continue over coastal headlands and beaches to Tōtaranui.
This short stage carries the highest planning consequence in the coastal itinerary because Awaroa has no alternative track. The crossing takes about 25 minutes and the safe window can shift with storm surge, rainfall and tide height.
Trail facts
- Country
- New Zealand
- Region
- Northern Abel Tasman National Park
- Distance
- 7.1 km one way
- Typical duration
- approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- null — not published
- Best season
- Only when Awaroa Inlet can be crossed safely in daylight
- Trail type
- Point-to-point tidal stage
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No day permit; booked overnight accommodation is required if the itinerary uses a hut or campsite.
Safety context
Cross only in daylight from 1 hour 30 minutes before to 2 hours after low tide, and wait at Goat Bay if the beach access is covered. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Tidal entrapment, deep channels, storm surge, heavy-rain runoff, Goat Bay cutoff and missed transport.
Highlights
Awaroa Inlet, Waiharakeke Bay, Goat Bay and Tōtaranui beach
Why find a buddy
Match only with hikers who understand the compulsory tide window and will abandon the stage rather than force a crossing.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.