From golden sand to the turquoise waters of the estuary, from rich native forest to wetlands teeming with wildlife, there is so much to explore at Tahi. Our sanctuary in Pataua North is a haven for walkers, birdwatchers and anyone drawn to nature’s epic bounty. The Tahi Walks are open to the public every Sunday throughout summer and all year-round to guests staying in our cottages.

During your visit to our sanctuary, you can explore Tahi’s mown pathways and native forest, learn about the environment or simply relax. All visitors to Tahi directly contribute to the ecological restoration and protection of Tahi’s native forest, wetlands, dunes and the flora and fauna that call them home. There is a range of activities to experience among our wetlands and parklands, estuary and surf beach which we have highlighted below.

We also offer numerous opportunities for school children, college students, and professional groups to visit throughout the year and learn more about what we do. If you wish to learn more about our educational programme, please click here.

Walking Tracks

Our 4 self-guided walking tracks offer diverse lengths and scenery. Ranging from a short 10-minute to our Café Wetland Lookout through native plantings and a restored wetland; to the more challenging 2-hour Forest Walk, there is something to suit everyone. Guests that stay in our cottages are free to enjoy these at any time throughout the year. On Sundays, during the main summer holidays, our Walks are also open to the public. Our Tahi Walks map details the distance and approximate times for each track.

Guests to Tahi can also opt to visit the sacred historical Māori pā site (a Māori fortified village) at the top of Ohuatahi Hill. This Walk is only accessible with a local guide and should be booked in advance of your trip to Tahi. Originally this land was centred on this important pā and the remains of the site – the living areas, cooking and waste pits of the Te Waiariki, the earliest inhabitants – can still be seen.

The Beach

Tahi has its own private access to the golden sand Parauwanui surf beach. This stunning Pacific Ocean surf beach attracts visitors from all over the world. Beginners can take their first lessons while the more experienced can hone their skills with our expert instructors.

And there’s plenty of aquatic fun to be had for those not wishing to surf – choose from boogie boarding, stand-up paddle boarding, snorkelling or kayaking.

Others may choose the more tranquil options of fishing, relaxing walks on the beach or discovering Tahi’s many lakes that are brimming with waterfowl and newly returned native fish.

The Birds

Keen birdwatchers can take advantage of self-guided walks at Tahi, catering for everyone from the novice to the most serious birder. In 2004 when we began restoring this farm, there weren’t many native trees or wildlife. Back then we only recorded 14 species of birds. Now 18 years on, more than 430,000 indigenous trees have been planted and 14 wetlands restored, providing a home for 70 bird species, 23 of them which are rare or endangered.

Birdsong now fills the land where not so long ago there was silence. You can keep a quiet lookout for our feathered residents from our purpose-built observation huts.

Beyond

Tahi provides an ideal base from which to explore some of the North Island’s diverse landscapes and rugged coastline. There’s a host of sports and activities on offer and we can help build a programme that is tailored to your preference and pace.

Explore the excellent golf courses around our region or enjoy some of the best scuba diving in New Zealand. Other activities include sailing, wine tasting, caving and discovering the country’s rich marine life.

Excursions may be arranged by car, private plane, helicopter or luxury motor launch – with many glorious New Zealand sights to behold.