WITH DUKES NOSE LOOKOUT
Lane Cove Hut is a rustic weatherboard home-turned-hut situated right on the edge of the Lane Cove in the Whangaroa Harbour. This particular part of the harbour is filled with dramatic rocky nubs which can be quite dramatic. Climb up the Duke’s Nose for 360 degree views over the surrounding harbour.
Time to complete
2 Days
Accommodation style
Back-country hut
Track type
There and back - Return via same track
Distance
5.5km each way
Difficulty
Easy
Bookings required
Yes
A beautiful kiwi bach style hut
Climb the Dukes nose for 360 degree views of the harbour
An easy hike for young families
A nice swimmable bay directly next to the hut
A trip to Lane Cove Hut is quite a different experience to a lot of the other backcountry huts around the country. It’s a relatively short hike to get out here and rather than hunkering down to avoid the elements, staying at this hut feels more like you’ve rented a small rustic kiwi bach for the weekend.
Located right on the edge of the turquoise green water but also nestled amongst native bush, there are also giant rock formations towering above and around the hut which give it a really secluded feeling. This track is a fantastic young family destination but also a great spot to go to with friends even if it’s just for a day trip. It’s optional and there are a couple ladders to go up, but I highly recommend to head up the Dukes Nose and soak in the views at the top.
Track condition
-Good condition all over except for one small stream crossing to navigate with a small boggy section next to it
Optionals
-Climb up to the top of the Dukes Nose for epic views over the harbour (30-45min return).
Trail start/finish location: Wairakau Stream Track Carpark
-Huts:
The hut is situated right on the water and is a repurposed weatherboard home.
-Camping:
Not allowed.
-Booking:
Booking required.
-Back-country hut pass:
Can be used.
Swimming clothes and your usual hiking gear. Northland is much warmer than the rest of Aotearoa but it’s always good to have some warm and wet weather gear.
Summer | Example packing list
Spring + Autnum + Winter | Example packing list
The trail is suitable all year round.
Department of conservation website | Whangaroa Harbour Weather
5.5km | 1.5-2Hours
1.5-2hr | Lane Cove Hut
The trail starts with a moderate ascent up from the carpark through regenerating native forest. After reaching the top of the hill, the track winds its way down where a small stream is met. Cross the stream by rock hopping or walking through it and continue around the small boggy section and on the reasonably flat coastal track towards the hut.
Optionals
-Climb up the Dukes Nose (30-45min return)
5.5km | 1.5-2 Hours
The track back to the carpark follows the same one walked on day 1.
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