What type of category does this walking track fall into (as defined by the NZ Department of Conservation)?
Walking track
Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day. Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy. Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities. Clearly signposted. Stream and river crossings are bridged. Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required.
DOC Track Category
What type of category does this walking track fall into (as defined by the NZ Department of Conservation)?
Walking track
Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day. Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy. Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities. Clearly signposted. Stream and river crossings are bridged. Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required.
10km return walk taking us 2 1/2 hours as it was very windy on Surat bay so we didn't linger.
Beautiful sandy beaches with sea lions. Cross from Surat bay to Cannibal bay at the track at the end of Surat by the cliffs. If you try crossing too early you can struggle in the dunes. Sea lions may be sleeping in the dunes so walk carefully. If you walk up the track from Surat bay you come to a gate and electric fence. Don't cross that but follow the 4wd track downhill and to the right to come out on Cannibal bay which is much more sheltered than Surat.
Some people recommend driving on Cannibal bay but the beach near the road end was very uneven when we were there and best left to 4wds.
Reviewed over 3 years ago and experienced in November 2016