Pouto Point & Russell
Things to do here
Two extraordinary locations. Countless ways to spend your days.
Pouto Point & Russell
Two extraordinary locations. Countless ways to spend your days.
Pouto Point · Featured experience
One of the most memorable ways to experience the Pouto Peninsula is on horseback. Local operators offer guided treks along the vast black sand beaches of the west coast, through coastal scrub and dune country, with sweeping views of both sea and harbour.
No horse experience is necessary. Treks are guided and suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. Half-day and full-day options are available. Mana can help connect you with the best local operators — just ask when you book.
Duration
Half or full day
Level
All levels
Season
Year-round
All experiences
Pouto Point
New Zealand's oldest wooden lighthouse, built in 1884. A 14km return beach walk from Pouto Point through dramatic coastal dunes. One of the most underrated walks in Northland.
Pouto Point
The Kaipara sand dunes are among the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Drive or walk to the beach for surfing, sandboarding, or simply standing at the edge of the Tasman Sea.
Pouto Point
The Kaipara Harbour is renowned for snapper, flounder, and shellfish. Local fishing spots are plentiful. Crabbing off the rocks is excellent and requires minimal equipment.
Pouto Point · At the lodge
Pouto has virtually no light pollution. On a clear night you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye from the lodge deck or hot tub. Bring a stargazing app and lose track of time.
Pouto Point · At the lodge
The Pouto lodges each have a hot tub set to 40°C and a private outdoor sauna. The combination — sauna, cold air, hot tub, harbour view — is genuinely restorative.
Russell · Bay of Islands
The Bay has 144 islands and some of the best sailing in New Zealand. Day cruises, dolphin-watching tours, island picnics, and overnight charter trips all leave from Paihia (20 min ferry).
Russell · History
One of New Zealand's most significant historical sites, just 20 minutes away. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840. Museum, guided tours, and cultural performances available daily.
Russell · Dining
The Duke of Marlborough (NZ's oldest licensed pub), The Gables Restaurant, and several excellent cafés are all within walking distance of the Russell ferry wharf. Ask Lisa for her current favourites.
Russell · At the lodge
Wahapu Lodge's outdoor bath overlooking the bay is one of those experiences you don't easily forget. Takes 15 minutes to fill. Bath bombs provided. Best used at dusk with the bay turning golden.
Insider tips
The light over the Kaipara Harbour at sunrise is extraordinary. Set an alarm at least once. The hot tub facing east makes this particularly easy to commit to.
The New World supermarket in Dargaville is your last stop before Pouto. There are no shops at the Point. The local butcher is worth a visit — excellent lamb.
Both locations have remarkable birdlife. At Pouto, look for NZ dotterel and variable oystercatcher on the beach. At Russell, tui and kereru in the lodge canopy are common.