Last updated May 2026
The Westshore to Bay View Coastal Path is the sealed northern stretch of Napier’s Rotary Pathway — following the Ahuriri coastline from Westshore north along the foreshore toward Bay View. The path is 2.5–3.5 m wide concrete/sealed surface, mostly flat, suitable for walking, running and cycling. The Northern point of the cycleway can be accessed from Snapper Park and offers coastal scenery along Bay View, Westshore beaches and the Ahuriri Estuary. A historic WWII pillbox at the northern end of the track is a highlight.
Practical Information
| Route | Westshore to Bay View — northern stretch of the Rotary Pathway following the Ahuriri coastline |
| Surface | 2.5–3.5 m wide — mostly concrete/sealed, plus some timber boardwalks; all-weather |
| Difficulty | Easy — mostly flat, suitable for walking, running, cycling, e-bikes |
| Access points | Westshore reserve southern end; Snapper Park northern end |
| Highlights | Ahuriri Estuary views, WWII pillbox at northern end, beach access throughout |
| Cost | Free |
| Parking | Free at multiple points along the route |
| Pair with | Marine Parade Walkway, Ahuriri Estuary boardwalks |
About the Coastal Path
The Westshore to Bay View Coastal Path is one of the northern legs of Napier’s Rotary Pathway network — a sealed all-weather walking and cycling path that follows the coastline from Westshore north through Bay View. The path connects into the wider Hawke’s Bay Trails network at multiple points: south via the Marine Parade and the Pandora bridge into central Napier; west into the Ahuriri Estuary loop.
The coastal-uplift context shapes the route. The 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake raised much of the surrounding area out of the sea — what was previously dangerous and shingly seashore became safer sandy beach and the Ahuriri Estuary became much smaller than the pre-1931 inner harbour. Walking the path you’re crossing land that didn’t exist 95 years ago.
A historic WWII pillbox at the northern end of the track is a highlight — a concrete defensive structure built during the war when the Napier Port and northern Hawke’s Bay coast were considered a defensive priority. The pillbox now carries heritage signage on the path. Views across the Ahuriri Estuary are particularly good for birdlife — the estuary is a haven for over 70 bird species.
Highlights Along the Route
| Westshore Beach Reserve | Southern start; 19.4-hectare strip reserve, surf club, playground |
| Ahuriri Estuary views | Wetland views with bird-watching opportunities |
| WWII pillbox | Historic concrete defensive structure at the northern end |
| Bay View beach access | Multiple access points along the path |
| Snapper Park | Northern access point with parking |
| Bird-watching | 70+ species across the Ahuriri Estuary system, visible from the path |
What Visitors Often Say
Reviewers consistently describe the Westshore to Bay View Coastal Path as one of Napier’s most scenic flat walking/cycling routes — the Ahuriri Estuary views, the WWII pillbox at the northern end, and the coastal scenery combine into a half-day outing for walkers or a quick ride for cyclists. The sealed all-weather surface and the connection into the wider Rotary Pathway make it part of a wider network rather than a one-off path.
The most common practical tips: do the path one-way and arrange transport from the other end if walking the full length; cyclists can do an out-and-back easily; combine with the Marine Parade Walkway and Ahuriri Estuary boardwalks for a full coast-and-estuary day; bring binoculars for the estuary bird-watching; and remember the pre-1931 history — much of the land was under water until the earthquake uplifted the coast.
Where to Learn More
Napier City Council — Westshore walkways — official council page covering the Westshore walking and cycling network.
Napier City Council — paths and walkways — full Napier paths directory.
Hawke’s Bay Trails — Ride Our Trails — wider regional cycling network of which this path is part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Westshore to Bay View Coastal Path?
On Napier’s northern coast — from Westshore reserve in the south to Snapper Park / Bay View in the north, following the Ahuriri coastline.
How long is the Westshore to Bay View Coastal Path?
The path runs the length of the coast between Westshore and Bay View — most walkers do the full route in 1–2 hours one way, faster for cyclists.
Is the path sealed?
Yes — concrete and sealed surface throughout, 2.5–3.5 m wide, plus some timber boardwalks. Suitable for all weather.
What’s the WWII pillbox?
A historic concrete defensive structure at the northern end of the track, built during WWII when the Napier Port and northern coast were a defensive priority.
Can I cycle the Westshore to Bay View Coastal Path?
Yes — the sealed surface is ideal for cycling. The path is part of the wider Rotary Pathway / Hawke’s Bay Trails network.
What can I see from the path?
Ahuriri Estuary views (bird-watching), Westshore and Bay View beaches, the WWII pillbox, plus coastal scenery the whole way.
Where can I park for the Westshore to Bay View path?
Free parking at multiple points including the Westshore reserve southern end and Snapper Park at the northern end.
For more Napier walking and cycling, see the walking tracks hub and the cycling tracks hub.
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