Sunday 5th June 2016
Day 4: Whangaparaoa to Schischka Campsite (Wenderholm Regional Park)
10 km (approximately) 4.5 hours including 1 hour in Orewa
Once again, it was a lovely morning as I trudged down Red Beach road, across the bridge and into Orewa. This town has a slight resort feel to it with a lot of motels and backpackers hostels. It is home to the modest and modern
Anglican church of St Chads (See picture 1) I walked a lot of Orewa along the beach and it was packed with people taking a leisurely stroll. I then had a quick bite to eat at a cafe. There was also a bustling little market. I then made my way along the east coast road up a windy hill. Halfway up this hill, there is a nice viewing platform where you can survey the settlement of Orewa from above (See picture 2).
There is enough path behind the road barrier up the hill from Orewa and then a bit of proper footpath once the brow of the hill is reached. The walk is then quite a slog as you go down and up some windy hills until arriving at the gorgeous Hatfields Beach . From here, I continued to walk up the highway and then down again until reaching Waiwera. Exercise extreme caution when approaching Waiwera. There is not very much path by the busy roadside and visibility around the bend in the road is sometimes poor for motorists. I would advise people not to walk this leg if it is foggy or raining heavily.
I arrived at Waiwera where there is a bustling spa resort for travellers to soothe their weary limbs! Those wishing to soothe the soul as well can wander around the beach area or check out the tiny but pretty Anglican Church of Christ Church (See picture 3). T
here is also a dairy store where you can stock up on supplies, as well a wine bar and cafe.
I walked across the bridge and immediately on the other side of the Waiwera river, joined the Te Arora trail. I went around the coastal peninsula of Wenderholm regional park through thick Kauri forest. Once again, exercise caution – especially with a back - pack of 60 litres 
or more! The path is narrow, steep and muddy, even on a warm sunny day. The steep climb of the peninsula, was however, compensated, by the good wooden steps on the other side. There are also good views of the coastline (See picture 4)
My final destination was Schischka campsite where I pitched the tent for the night. The route along the lane to here is further than one might assume. However, the campsite is, configured well and situated right on the Puhoi river estuary. I had pre booked my tent site with Auckland council and the cost was $15 NZ for the night. The place is teeming with birds and that night I slept to the sound of the gorgeous Morepork - the native New Zealand owl, so did not feel at all alone! Above, the sky was clear and the stars were bright and expansive.
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