Mount Manaia, Whangarei

Mount Manaia is located on the eastern side of Whangarei, New Zealand. The landscape is dominated by the towering remnants of ancient volcanic lava plugs. The northland of New Zealand is not only a good place for sailing, surfing and spear fishing, but also offers a number of great hikes.

Overlooking the Whangarei harbor, Mount Manaia is one of the most dramatic features of the landscape, and can be spotted from quite a distance. There are two trails that lead to the top of this towering mountain. The trail wraps around the base at a steep and even grade. There are a few smooth switchbacks toward the end of the hike, and on average it takes about one and a half hours to get to the summit. A more direct but very steep trail will take you to the top in a third of the time if you push hard, or the two trials can be combined to form a loop.

The last 20 meters to the summit of Manaia involves some rock climbing, however for the less sure footed there is a viewing platform at the saddle located just below the main peak.

My friends, Glen, Adam and Courtney hiked this trail with me on January 29th, 2003. On the way back to the car we came across a few ducks, and on a challenge I was able to catch one. Courtney was able to pet him and everyone was happy.