In a big city like Auckland, it can be hard to escape the busy lifestyle and get out into nature. Luckily for you and I, Auckland has plenty of fantastic walks to enjoy and explore the outdoors.
Growing up in Auckland one of my favourite weekend activities was going on a ‘bush walk’. Still to this day it is something I try to do at least once a week. By now, I have pretty much explored every single walking track in Auckland multiple times.
From volcanic islands to scenic waterfall walks, there are so many opportunities for everyone to stretch their legs and make the most of being out in nature. I have listed 15 of my absolute favourite walks in the different areas of Auckland. Make sure to keep reading to find out all you need to know about each one.
Note: Some of these tracks can be closed for extended periods of time due to Kauri Dieback. Always check the DoC website for walk information before you go.
South and East Auckland Walks
East Auckland is often not mentioned when activities around Auckland are brought up. It is quite far from the central city and is out of the way for a lot of people. This is the area I grew up in, so I might be a little biased when I say East Auckland really does have some pretty cools spots that you don’t want to miss.
Duder Regional Park
Time: 3 hours (for both the Farm and Pā walk)
Difficulty: Easy
Of course I have to mention one of my favourite walks first. Located 45 minutes east of Auckland City, Duder Regional Park sits on the Whakakaiwhara peninsular, overlooking the Hauraki Gulf. The views from here are insane, especially on a sunny day.
This Auckland park has four main walks to choose from, with the most popular being the Farm Loop Walk. It takes around two hours to complete, taking you up through the stunning farmland with views of the ocean as your background.
The paddocks, full with sheep, provide the stereotypical kiwi scenery for you to enjoy. For the best scenery on the peninsular, include the Whakakaiwhara Pā walk in your adventure.
Veering off the Farm Loop walk, head out to the Māori Pā site where you will be treated to panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and its many islands.
Tip: If you go at the start of spring, you will get the added bonus of seeing all the lambs frolicking around in the fields.
Camp sladdin walk – Clevedon Scenic Reserve
Time: 1 to 2 hours return
Difficulty: Easy (with lots of breaks)
Just outside the sleepy town of Clevedon, you will find Camp Sladdin. This is one of the Auckland walks that is very popular for locals and you will often come across some very enthusiastic people running up and down. The walk will not take you long, only one hour return, depending on how many breaks you take on the way up. It is however very steep, with steps or an uphill walk the whole way to the top.
Start the walk by crossing over the bridge and into the native bush. If you need to stop for a breather, make the most of your surroundings and keep an eye out for the many New Zealand birds that call the bush their home. With slightly sore legs the sight of the viewing platform at the top of the hill will bring you some relief.
Climbing those last few steps you will be treated to an amazing view of the surrounding area. From the farmland below to the Auckland city in the distance, this walk certainly is worth the hard work.
Tawhitokino beach walk
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Tawhitokino Beach, located east of Auckland, is somewhat of a local secret. This hidden gem of a walk takes you to along untouched beach which you will most likely have all to yourself. You will need to plan around the tide as the first part of the walk requires you to go around the rocks at the beach. It is recommend to go as the tide is heading out, that way the tide will only be on its way back in as you come back.
Starting at Waiti Bay, make your way over the rocks to the neighbouring bay where the track begins. Then, follow the track up and over the point and reach your destination of Tawhitokino Beach. Enjoy the secluded beach for a few hours before you begin your walk back to Waiti Bay.
Tawhitokino Beach also has a campground at the far end of the beach, which is fantastic for people who want to escape Auckland City and its crowds for the night.
Ōmana Regional Park walk
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Ōmana Regional Park is one of the best family friendly Auckland walks, it is an easy stroll and perfect walk to bring the kids on. You really get to experience nature as you wander through the open paddocks, coastal mangroves and golden sand beaches. It is a popular local spot so it can get a bit busy, but as the park is so large, you never feel like you are crowded.
The main perimeter walk is only an hour long and passes many little beaches and parks, where you can stop and enjoy your surroundings. There are also plenty of barbecue facilities at the entrance to the park, which you can use for a hot summer’s day picnic. A bonus add on to the perimeter walk is the farm walk. It is a quick 15 minute stroll into the paddocks where you can get up close to the many animals the farm is home to.
Cossey-Massey Loop
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
One of the longer Auckland walks on this list, the Cossey-Massey Loop takes you on an 8.3km walk through the Hunua Ranges. Get a few snaps at Hunua Falls, the starting point of the walk, before you head up towards the Dam.
While it is a long walk, the tracks are well maintained and there are lots of points you can stop along the way for a break. The main stopping point along this walk is the Cossey Reservoir, this is one of the few dams in the area that supplies Auckland’s fresh water supply.
Continue through the bush on your loop walk crossing little steams, while you listen out for the native birds in the area. After around 3 hours you will make it back to your start point at the waterfall, which you can enjoy until you are ready to head home.
Other South and East Auckland walks
- Mangemangeroa Reserve
- Totara Park
West Auckland Walks
The Waitakere Ranges is home to some of the most rugged and unique walks in Auckland. Looking out over to the Tasman Sea, wander through the thick native bush to find and find hidden gems such as waterfalls and coastal coves. There is over 250 kilometres of walking tracks to explore, so get your walking shoes on and check out these awesome West Auckland walks.
Omanawanui Track
Time: 2 & ½ hours
Difficulty: Easy – medium
Newly upgraded in 2020, the Omanawanui Track takes you on a tough walk along Auckland’s rugged West Coast. Starting in the sand dunes in Whatipu, you will make your way up to the trig station at the top, with a few stops and detours on the way, for the best views right up the beach.
While it is a bit of a tough climb, once you make it up, you can relax on the boardwalk while you take in your surroundings and catch your breath. Be warned, there are a lot of steps and this Auckland walk can be tiring, but the views are second to none and should not be missed.
This is a one way track that starts and ends at different points. You can take two cars and park one at each end or you can turn around at the trig station go back down the same way you came up.
Kitekite falls walk
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1 hour (add 45 minutes for walk to the top)
One of the most popular walks in Auckland, Kitekite Falls is located in the lush Waitakere Ranges on Auckland’s west coast. With the track starting near Piha Beach, it makes an awesome little bonus excursion on your way back from a long day at the beach. This walk has been upgraded with new gravel tracks and boardwalks to protect the Kauri trees so is perfect for a family friendly adventure.
Winding your way through the thriving New Zealand Native bush, you will make your way to your end destination, the mighty Kitekite Falls. Spend some time relaxing at the base of the waterfall and jump in the large pool for a swim to cool off.
I grew up coming out and walking on this track a lot and will always be amazed as I get the first glimpse of the gorgeous falls.
There is also a steep track that takes you to the top of the waterfall where there are a few smaller pools to take a dip in. The views from the top are beautiful, it is highly recommend making time for this extra walk.
Te Henga walkway
Time: 3 & ½ hours (full walk)
Difficulty: Easy to medium
The Te Henga Walkway is part of one of the big Auckland walks, the Hillary Trail. The 10km section of track is the most popular part of the trail for day walkers as it connects the two popular beaches of Muriwai and Bethells Beach. Black sand beaches, towering cliff faces and a range of bird life to see, this walk truly has that rugged New Zealand feeling to it.
The first half of the walk is fairly easy up to Raetahinga Point, however from this point the track gets a bit more exposed, and it is advised to take care. This track is a one way one walk, so you will need to organise transport from the start or end of the track. Another option, which a lot of the locals choose, is to start at Bethells Beach and do the easier walk up to Raetahinga Point then turn around and go back the way they came in. Whichever option you choose, you won’t be disappointed but this west Auckland walk.
Lake wainamu walk
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Lake Wainamu is a special gem in Auckland. Also located by Bethells Beach, this walk is a lot easier than the Te Henga Walkway. Be prepared to get your feet wet, as the first section of this walk is a wander through the sandy stream on the edge of the massive sand dunes. The walk then continues on a track, passing a cute waterfall, all the way around the lake.
The final part of the walk is heading back over the sand dunes, which can be hot in summer due to the black sand. Many peoples favourite part of this walk, is getting to enjoy the sand dunes and the lake. Bring a body board with you and slide down the dunes and straight into the water below. This walk and the surrounding area is a great summer activity in Auckland for the whole family to enjoy.
Mokoroa Falls Lookout Walk
Time: 1 & ½ hours return
Difficulty: Easy
The Mokoroa Falls Lookout walk is an easy walk which takes you right to the top of the falls. Following the ridge line through the bush, you will step out onto the lookout platform and gaze down on the falls below.
Follow the side track down to get to the base of the waterfall and relax beside the stream. The main track is very flat and great for people of all abilities, and with the added option of the steep stair climb to the bottom of the falls, this walk is a great adventure for anyone. For the more adventurous, Goldie Bush Walkway and Mokoroa Stream Track can be added on to make a longer loop.
Anawhata Beach walk
Time: 2 hours (with time to explore)
Difficulty: Easy
Anawhata Beach is one of the least crowded beaches on Auckland’s west coast, thanks to the fact that it is only accessible by foot. I love to come out here with groups of friends as you can have heaps of space to yourself on the beach.
After winding your way down the long gravel road you will arrive at a small car park where this Auckland walk begins.
A short walk down the drive you will veer off onto a side track, which takes you all the way down to the beach. You may come across a few people, maybe some local surfers, but you will pretty much be able to enjoy having the beach all to yourself. Go for a wander up the estuary and explore the rock pools, really make the most of the serenity of this untouched beach.
When it’s time to head home, the walk back up the hill isn’t as pleasant as it is coming down, but the view up at the top at the carpark will put a smile back on your face.
Other west Auckland walks
- Mercer Bay Loop Track
- Whites Beach Track
- Upper Nihotupu Walk
- Lion Rock Track
- Fairy Falls Track
North Auckland Walks
Just a quick drive from the city over the Harbour Bridge, North Auckland walks are quick and easy to get to from the city. Covering a large area, there are many different options to choose from. Well maintained smooth tracks makes these walks perfect for a casual stroll on a sunny day.
Shakespear Regional park
Time: 2 hours (time for a few different walks)
Difficulty: Easy
Go for a walk in the warm Auckland sun and explore the many walks that Shakespear Regional Park has to offer. Being only 40 minutes from the city, it is a very popular spot for families to come and enjoy a sunny day out.
On your walk through the native forest, wetlands and farm paddocks you will come across World War 2 sites, an old Māori settlement and beaches with shipwrecks. The walk through this pest free regional park is suitable for anyone of any fitness level and will be enjoyed by all. After any slight uphill walk you are treated to views of Rangitoto Island, Tiritiri Matangi Island and Auckland City.
There are also some great places for a picnic, as well as calm beaches to swim at, so make sure to take along some food and a swimsuit to make the most of your day.
North Head Reserve (Maungauika)
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
North Head Reserve or Maungauika is a great self lead Auckland walk for those wanting to learn a bit more about the city’s history. It was first used by local Māori as a pā and later as defensive posts for World War 1 and 2.
The self-guided walk takes around an hour and leads you through old military tunnels, gun emplacements and informative buildings. Every location is well sign posted and has in depth information about each of the sights. As well as being a historic walk, the views from the reserve are incredible. Enjoy the panoramic views back to the city and out towards the gulf as you explore this interesting Auckland walk.
Other North Auckland walks
- Tawharanui Regional Park
- Te Ara Tahuna Estuary
- Wenderholm Regional Park
Central Auckland walks
You don’t have to go too far from the city to get to a good walk. The central Auckland walks may not be as deep in nature as some of the others a bigger distance away. However, they still offer something unique that should not be overlooked. Being easy to get to and having impressive views of the city skyline makes these often underrated Auckland walks a must do.
Mt Eden (Maungawhau) walk
Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Mt Eden is quick and easy to get to from the city in Auckland. It was once one of the largest Māori Pā in the area, and to this day you can still see evidence of this through the flat terraces and pits on the sides of the mountain.
There are a few different tracks that lead to the top, where there is a newly built boardwalk and platform to protect the land. The main entrance is via Puhi Huia Road. The outer rim boardwalk at the summit boasts beautiful views as far as the eye can see, out towards the city and harbour. It is important to remember to stick to the track and not enter the crater as it is a sacred place to Māori. With plenty of space to sit down and relax this is one of the best places to watch the sunset in the city.
Other Central Auckland walks
- Cornwall Park
- Ōrākei Basin Walk
- Tamaki Drive Waterfront Walk
- Western Springs Park
Hauraki Gulf Walks
Get off the mainland and explore the many islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Most of the islands, with some of the top Auckland walks, are easily accessible by ferry from downtown Auckland. There has been a lot of work put into getting some of these islands pest free. You can do your bit by making sure you don’t have any stow aways in anything you bring, and you take all your rubbish out with you.
Rangitoto Summit walk
Time: 2 hours return (add 45 minutes for lava caves)
Difficulty: Easy
Standing high over Auckland, in the middle of the Hauraki Gulf sits Rangitoto Island. This 600 year old Volcano is one of the most popular Auckland walks for locals and tourists to enjoy and is easily accessible by catching the ferry from downtown Auckland, arriving at your start point within 30 minutes.
Whenever I have friends come from over seas, this is always on the list of places to take them while they are in Auckland.
The walk itself isn’t difficult, only taking 1 hour to get to the top, making it really great for a family day out. Passing through the vast lava fields and native fauna, you will be welcomed to the summit by unforgettable 360 degree views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. There is plenty of space at the summit lookout to sit down, enjoy the views and refuel, so make the most of it.
It is also highly recommend to make a detour to visit the lava caves. It only takes 15 minutes to reach the caves and is a unique little extra to add onto your walk. Remember Rangitoto is a pest free island, so please take all your rubbish back with you.
Other Hauraki Gulf walks
- Tiritiri Matangi Island
- Rotoroa Island
- Te Ara Hura Walking Track
Wrap up: Best Auckland Walks
When most people think of Auckland, getting out in nature for a walk is not the first thing they think of. However, there are many amazing spots where you can spend some time exploring.
From bush walks to farm paddocks, wetlands to city views, it isn’t too hard to find a walk to suit your style.
As long as you go prepared and respect the environment around you, I can guarantee you will have a great day out on any of these walks in Auckland.
