Coastal Walks in the North Island

The North Island has a spectacular and varied coastline, from the perfect curves of its golden and black-sand beaches to the dog-toothed skyline of its storm-battered headlands, volcanic brows and rocky cliffs. Palm-fringed lagoons, island-studded bays and tranquil tidal flats add to the unique brew that makes the North Island coast such a magnet for walkers. Marios Gavalas has travelled all around the island's coast and selected 41 of his favourite walks. These range from 20-minute strolls to full-day hikes suitable for the fit and experienced. In amongst the highly detailed track notes are woven equally intricate points of interest; notes on fauna and flora, fascinating geological features, and Maori and colonial history, all recounted in gripping detail. Each walk is prefaced with a concise panel that gives at-a-glance practical details on grade, duration, access and critical notes. Accompanying the walks are 16 pages of full-colour photographs by the author.