McLaren Falls & Puketoki hike: Native forest walks

Two forest walks, a waterfall, and views across the Bay of Plenty

A scenic hiking tour departing from Tauranga Port that combines two native forest walks (the Glow Worm Track at McLaren Falls and the longer loop through Puketoki Reserve) with stops at Mount Main Beach, Minden Lookout and a local café. The tour runs September to April only and includes air-conditioned transport with a live English-speaking guide. Children are welcome from age 14.

Step-by-step itinerary

Scenic hike and nature exploration

• Depart from Tauranga Port Gates
• Drive past Mount Maunganui and stop at Mount Main Beach
• Travel through Tauranga City to McLaren Falls Park
• Walk Glow Worm Track and lakeside paths
• Visit McLaren Falls waterfall and lake views
• Continue to Minden Lookout for panoramic views
• Take a break at local café
• Walk Puketoki Reserve loop track
• Return to Tauranga

The experience

The tour starts at the Tauranga Port Gates with a scenic drive past Mount Maunganui to Mount Main Beach, where golden sands and the iconic Mauao peak introduce the region's coastal character. From there the route heads inland through Tauranga City into rolling countryside toward McLaren Falls Park. The first walk follows the Glow Worm Track and lakeside paths alongside Lake McLaren, winding through native bush where towering trees, birdsong and gentle streams create the setting. The shaded forest areas hold glow worms if you watch for them. After the walk you stop at McLaren Falls itself to see the waterfall and lake views before driving to Minden Lookout, where sweeping panoramic views open across Tauranga Harbour, Mount Maunganui, the Pacific coastline and the fertile Bay of Plenty landscape.

A break at a local café sits at the foot of Minden Lookout before the second walk begins at Puketoki Reserve. The reserve's longer loop track winds through regenerating native forest on a quieter stretch of the region, with native birdlife, lush greenery and a tranquil stop beside the stream. The tour returns to Tauranga Port after this walk. The two hikes total roughly 1 hour 45 minutes of walking across the full 4 to 5 hour outing, so the pace stays relaxed and the stops give time to absorb each landscape.

The tour runs only from September to April. An air-conditioned vehicle carries the group between sites, and a live English-speaking guide provides commentary throughout the day. Children from age 14 can join. The walks involve moderate physical fitness and are not suitable for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or cardiovascular concerns.

What’s included

• Air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off at Tauranga Port Gates.
• two guided native forest walks totaling approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
• live English-speaking guide with commentary throughout the day.
• stops at Mount Main Beach, McLaren Falls, Minden Lookout and a local café where refreshments can be purchased.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day6 departure times: the first at 09:00, the last at 11:30

Book up to18h before

AgesAdult (18 to 70 years) · Youth (14 to 17 years) · Under 14: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 11

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 34 pickup points.Operator's directions: “Please meet at the WICKED WANDERS sign board on the grassy mound opposite the port gates.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Wicked Wanders Tours

Is this one for you?The live English guide delivers commentary throughout the drive and walks, so anyone comfortable with a moderate pace and two short forest walks can follow the tour easily. The route suits a free afternoon or a cruise port visit, though the September-to-April season means you'll need to time it with those months.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (14 to 17 years). Under 14: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

What are the two walks on this tour like?

The Glow Worm Track at McLaren Falls runs about 45 minutes along lakeside paths through native bush beside Lake McLaren, where you may spot glow worms in the shaded forest. The Puketoki Reserve loop takes roughly an hour through regenerating native forest on the quieter side of the region, with native birdlife and a stream-side rest stop.

Does the tour include a meal or just a café stop?

A café stop at the foot of Minden Lookout is included in the itinerary. You can purchase refreshments there. Lunch is not part of the tour.

Where does the tour pick up and drop off?

Pickup and drop-off happen at the Tauranga Port Gates, so the tour suits cruise ship passengers or anyone staying near the port.

How much of the day is actually spent walking versus driving?

The two walks total roughly 1 hour 45 minutes combined. The full tour runs 4 to 5 hours, so the remaining time covers scenic drives between sites, the waterfall stop, Minden Lookout views and the café break.

When can I book this tour?

The Scenic Short Hike Tour runs September to April only. It is not available during the winter months of May to August.