Sun 31 May 2026
by Mark Growcott
Here are the suggested routes and maps for the Runners and Walkers for our Bus Trip to the Waikanae River on Sunday May 31. Should be enjoyable trip for all.
The routes are scenic, flat and on well-formed tracks.
There are toilets at the Otaihanga Domain.
As we ventured out this way in 2024, I have provided an optional alternative route for the Walkers and
Slower Running Group so they can experience different parts of the Waikanae River to that experienced
last time. These options include the Estuary and the Waimanu Lagoons where there is an abundant
variety of birdlife.
Stop 1 – Manly Street, Paraparaumu (near the intersection with Hadfield Place)
Route – Waikanae Estuary, Waimanu Lagoons, Waikanae River – The main Running Group will depart
from here along with any Walkers or those from the Slower Running Group wishing to go through the
Estuary and around the Lagoons.
Runners (Approx. 15 km)
Runners will leave from Manly Street and run through the Estuary to the Otaihanga Domain, cross the
bridge to the Waikanae side of the river, turning left towards the beach and run around the Waimanu
Lagoons. Return to the bridge and staying on the Waikanae side (northern side) follow the river trail all
the way (up river) to the old State Highway 1 (Now SH59). Cross the new bridge and then follow the
river trail on the southern side all the way to return to the Otaihanga Domain.
Walkers/Slower Running Group (Approx. 5.5 – 7.5 km)
Will also leave from Manly Street and go through the Estuary following the track to the Otaihanga
Domain. Once at the Domain, cross the bridge to the Waikanae side of the river, turning left towards
the beach, follow the trail toward the Waimanu Lagoons. Walk around both lagoons and then retrace
steps back to the Domain. This can be extended here by walking along the river trail (up river) and then
returning to the Otaihanga Domain.
Stop 2 – Otaihanga Domain, Makora Road, Paraparaumu
Route – Waikanae River – Those Runners and Walkers remaining on the bus will get dropped off here.
The bus will remain parked on the street near the Domain to pick everyone up afterwards.
Walkers (Approx. 6.5 km)
Walkers will leave from the Otaihanga Domain and cross the bridge to the Waikanae side of the river
(northern side) and follow the river trail all the way (up river) to the first bridge. Cross the bridge and
then follow the river trail on the southern side all the way to return to the Otaihanga Domain. The
more energetic Walkers looking to extend themselves, can follow the same route as the Slower Running
Group.
Slower Running Group (Approx. 9.5 km)
