Despite a dubious weather forecast, 16 of us met at Laingholm Beach on Tuesday. While rather soggy underfoot, the sun shone for most of the walk. From the beach we ascended some well-formed gravel steps through Warner Park, passing majestic totara and nikau as we caught glimpses of the coast. The track meandered past some little waterfalls and then up some more steps to the road. We had morning tea at the end of Tane Walk and decided to retrace our steps back down Tane Walk which required care on slippery steps but avoided too much road walking.  

From here, we walked down Kauri Point Road, a cul-de-sac which ended with a stunning mansion, complete with lion statues at the gates. As no invitation to lunch was forthcoming at the mansion, we descended the path at the end of the road, where we had a panoramic view of the Manukau Harbour looking across to Awhitu Peninsula. Then back through the bush until we arrived at the foreshore and walked along the rocks and the beach to a bluff where we sat on the rocks for lunch. Our intrepid leader, Kay, walked across the muddy sand and waded into the river as a possible idea for future walks.  

We returned along the coast passing at least three fresh large slips. Pine trees and large boulders had cascaded down the cliff, exposing cliff top roots and leaving at least one large totara looking ready to fall in the next deluge of rain. A few spits of rain threatened as we passed some oyster catchers hopping about the beach just before we got to the cars.

A wonderful walk with such mature bush and expansive harbour views. Thanks to Kay for helping us discover the hidden gems of Laingholm.  

Lesley O.

Click here to see photos by Lesley and Alison F.