Nature & Walks

Marsden Cross Track

As mentioned in our Culture & History section there is an easy short 1.1km track to the Marsden Cross site - New Zealand's first permanent European settlement

https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/northland/places/kerikeri-area/things-to-do/marsden-cross-track/

Kerikeri River Track

Easy 3.5km riverside walk leading upstream from the Kerikeri Basin.

Along the way you can enjoy views of the Wharepuke Falls and interesting rock formations.

https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/northland/places/kerikeri-area/things-to-do/kerikeri-river-track/

 

Paihia School Road Track

A 1.5km return uphill walking track close to Busby Manor that leads to the Paihia lookout.

A nice post-breakfast or pre-dinner walk to be had at some point during your stay here.

https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/northland/places/paihia-area/tracks/paihia-school-road-track/

Flagstaff Hill Track

As mentioned in the Culture & History section this 2.5 km loop track takes you to the Flagstaff Hill historic landmark.

Take the Ferry to Russell and make this track part of your day.  Walking through bush, listening to the birds and taking in the gorgeous panoramic views when you get to the flagpole.

https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/northland/places/russell-area/things-to-do/flagstaff-hill-track/

Waitangi to Haruru Falls

This is an easy, flat, sheltered by bush, 6km  2.5 hours one way walk.  A roadside path has been added to make it a loop but personally heading back the same way we would recommend as it has nicer surroundings in comparison to traffic.

The track  follows the river for most of its length, passing through some attractive native trees.

A feature of the walk is the boardwalk section which provides an opportunity to pass through the interior of a mature mangrove forest, an area which is usually inaccessible. The mangrove is a remarkable tree because of its ability to live in salt water.

Expect to see Shag Nests and Kingfishers diving for food while on your walk.

Te Wairere & Secret Waterfalls

Very enjoyable walk.  The waterfall track is well formed with several bridges and is marked with orange triangles. It is roughly a one hour return journey to this beautiful and previously ‘lost’ waterfall

Start at the Stone Store Carpark crossing the field and walking upstream

If unsure ask us in the office for directions 

The Full Circle

This walk starts from the Beach directly outside Busby. It can be walked as a full day or split into segments

The section outside Busby is tide dependent. All other sections are non tide dependent and have a variety of highlights including. 

  • Cliff top walks
  • Ferry to Okiato
  • Bush walks
  • Mangrove boardwalks (currently closed for repair)
  • Beach walks 
  • Lookout points
  • Harbour views

We have maps and can discuss the various options available 

There is currently a slip close to Opua but an alternative route has been signposted 

Currently the board walk midway between Paihia and Opua is closed - Talk to us for more details 

Rainbow Falls

View the falls from a stunning  wheelchair accessible viewing platform. In summer this is a great place to relax and swim underneath the falls.

To extend your walk you can join the Kerikeri River Track down to the Stone Store. Alternatively wall up from the Stone Store. On your way you will pass one of the old pumping stations and the walk will take you about 1 hour each way . 

Walking Urupukapuka Island

A stunning island with a variety of walks. A personal favourite of our staff at the Resort

Features include

  • farmland
  • wetland including a hide
  • beach walks
  • stunning 360 degree views of the bay 
  • native birdlife including saddleback 
  • great swimming beaches

Over Winter ferries operate to the island Saturday & Sunday only - departing Paihia at 10am and returning at 1.45pm. click here to book to book your ferry 

Ngawha Thermal Hot Springs

Timeless. These ponds apparently have some of the best healing properties world wide. The water is pumped into the pools directly from the thermal springs so is grey and sulphourous. Great for achy bodies plus you will sleep really well after! Ask staff at the Resort for directions as they are only 30 minutes away from the Resort . 

Open Tuesday - Sunday. Booking Essential. 

Ngawha Springs Prices

Puketi Forest Night Walk

Night walks in the forest where you will get to seek a variety of wild life including Wetas and the rare Kauri snail. Bird sound includes Morepork (our native owl) Great guides who provide a unique experience. Enquire at our office or email office@busbymanor.co.nz

Birdwatching Urupukapuka Island

Project Island Song has re introduced many native birds to this island including Saddlebacks and Robins. A ferry operates to the Island for just $45.

Over Winter ferries operate to the island Saturday & Sunday only - departing Paihia at 10am and returning at 1.45pm. Click here to book to book your ferry

Visit Hokianga including Tane Mahuta & Glow worm caves

Visit the  Hokianga harbour where maori  first landed in New Zealand.  Included  is a visit to the 2.8 million year old Wairere Boulders and the Waipoua Forest to see T?ne Mahuta - a huge Kauri Tree - also known as the God of the Forest. A local maori guide will enlighten you on the history 

You will also be able to visit Glow worm caves on the way home 

This Small intimate tour departs from Busby Manor and you receive discount by clicking and booking here At least a 10% discount will be deducted from price quoted when you click to book 

 

What's on offer at Busby Manor