Midway Mt Aubrey (Whangarei Heads) Traditional Cache
Midway Mt Aubrey (Whangarei Heads)
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(micro)
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After a trek up the mountain side you will come across a side area with a view. Hidden below your feet, you will have to go to the right when you can. Be careful if you go out any further. You are looking for a chunk of wood. The micro is hidden underneath.
What is Mount Aubrey?
Mount Aubrey is a bushclad ridge and scenic reserve rising above the settlement of McLeod Bay with views over the inner harbour and out towards the harbour entrance.
It's steep slopes are covered with native bush and there are a number of large rock outcrops. It is part of the remains of an ancient chain of volcanoes in the area, which included Mount Manaia.
Mount Aubrey takes its name from Harcourt Richard Aubrey, who came to Whangarei from London in 1840. In 1848 he became the Resident Magistrate, Collector of Customs and Emigration Officer for Whangarei and Postmaster for Whangarei Heads.
What's special about Mount Aubrey
The 360 degree views from the ridge and peaks of Mount Aubrey are breathtaking. From here, the whole of the Whangarei Harbour can be seen, together with the Marsden Bay port and the oil refinery. Pataua and the Pacific coastline can be seen to the east together with Mount Manaia and the Whangarei Heads to the south.
This track links with the Reotahi Coastal Walkway to form a longer, circular walk.
Track description
Track Grade Time Distance
Reotahi to Munro Bay via Mount Aubrey 3 1 hour each way 1500 metres
From the Tiller Park car park on the outskirts of the Reotahi settlement, the track passes through 2 large rocks and climbs the hill. This is quite a steep climb with many steps up to the top ridge. A seat at half way gives an opportunity to rest and admire the views over McLeod Bay and Mount Manaia.
The track continues along the ridge but a minor detour to the right up onto a rock dome and a trig point is well worthwhile, for those prepared to brave the short climb off the track. Caution is recommended. The views from this point are spectacular.
Returning to the track, it skirts the rocky spires and outcrops before descending more gently through an extensive area of puriri and totara trees. After winding its way almost to the sea level, the track comes to a ‘T’ junction with the Reotahi Coastal Walkway. From here, turn left to Little Munro Bay (300 metres) or right towards Reotahi (1100 metres back to the carpark).
For information about the Reotahi Coastal Walkway, follow the link below.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Tb gb gur evtug orsber lbh urnq bhg gbb sne, haqre.