Rising 241 metres above Whangārei, Mount Parihaka is a significant Māori pā site, with spectacular views across the city.
There are several well-maintained walking trails that take you through the 143-hectare native bush reserve and up to the summit (or there is road access for an easier option).
Explore groves of mature kauri trees, discover an abandoned gold mine, wander alongside the Hatea River, or bring your mountain bike to tackle some of the park’s trails.
But most people come for the view. At the summit of Mount Parihaka as well as the large obelisk of Whangārei’s War Memorial and a beautiful rock carving representing the mauri or ‘life force’ of Parihaka, you can soak in the panoramic vistas across Whangārei Harbour.
