Full Day Hike

  • Begin at the Oke Bay Scenic Reserve, hiking the first 16km to the Cape Brett Lighthouse (7-8 hours)

  • Hike from the Cape Brett Lighthouse back to Deep Water Cove (2 Hours)

  • Water taxi from Deep Water Cove, taking a scenic cruise back along the coastline to the start of the track (25-30mins)

Other hiking options:

Hiking the Full Cape Brett Track in one Day

The Cape Brett Hike starts at Oke Bay Scenic Reserve in Rawhiti, and takes you along the peninsula, through native and regenerated bush, with dramatic scenic and coastal views out to the Cape Brett Lighthouse.

You can either park your vehicle on the side of the road, or use secure parking for a small fee at one of the local campgrounds/Marae.

The first section of the walk from Oke Bay to the Deep Water Cove junction takes about 5-6 hours. Keep an eye out for our Native Birdlife along the trail and listen for their birdsong.

After reaching the Deep Water Cove Junction Sign, continue towards Cape Brett. From here it is about a 2 hour hike. This part of the track is more challenging – but you are rewarded with stunning coastal views over the Bay of Islands and Whangamumu Headlands.

On arrival at the Cape Brett Lighthouse, enjoy some time taking in your surroundings, before making your way back to Deep Water Cove for your pre-booked Deep Water Cove Water Taxi

For the full day hike, you will also need to purchase a Hiking Permit. These can be purchased through the Department of Conservation Website.

Water Taxi Bookings

Frequently Asked Questions

The Cape Brett Track is located in the Bay of Islands, and starts at the Oke Bay Scenic Reserve in the small town of Rawhiti

To/From Oke Bay (Rawhiti) to The Cape Brett Lighthouse takes approximately
7-8 hours (16.5km) one way

To/From Deep Water Cove to The Cape Brett Lighthouse takes approximately 2 hours (4km) one way

The Cape Brett Track requires a good-high level of fitness

Unsecured parking can be found on the side of the road at the start of the track

Secured parking can be found at “Julies place” for a small fee

The half day hike from Deep Water Cove to the Cape Brett Lighthouse does not require a permit, as you are walking over DOC land.

The section from Oke Bay to Deep Water Cove requires a pre-purchased permit ($40)

We can pickup from Paihia/Russell, Rawhiti (start of the track) and Deep Water Cove.

What to Take:

  • Plenty of Drinking Water
  • Good Walking Shoes/Hiking boots
  • First Aid Kit
  • Communication Device – there is patchy mobile reception along most of the track

Safety Considerations:

  • a good level of fitness is advised for the Cape Brett Hike​
  • be self sufficient and carry a first aid kit
  • take extreme caution as there are many bluffs and steep cliffs
  • remain on the track at all times
  • allow at least 10 hours of daylight for the Full Day Cape Brett Hike
  • wear tramping/hiking boots, especially if the track is wet
  • take plenty of water to drink during the tramp
  • bring a water treatment system if you are staying at the Cape Brett hut