Source: Auckland Council
As the weather gets colder but not too cold, it’s the perfect time to get in some outdoor hiking and running adventures across the Auckland region. Check out these epic Auckland tracks and immerse yourself in nature while getting a vigorous work out – take in the scenic views, fresh air and enjoy the wonders of Tāmaki Makaurau.
Coast to Coast Walk – Waitematā to the Manukau Harbour
The Coast to Coast walk is a 16km hike across Auckland from Waitematā to the Manukau Harbour, ending in Onehunga. This scenic track takes you through landscapes shaped by the Auckland volcanic field and 600 years of Māori heritage, offering panoramic views along the way.
The trail can be split into three easy parts, or those keen on a challenge can tackle all three in one day:
Enjoy the views of nature with this scenic path from Cornwall Park to Manukau Harbour.
Bird lovers be prepared to encounter native birds along the way, from iridescent blue kingfishers (kotare), fantail (pīwakawaka), tūi and the wood pigeon (kererū). Other bird species that might be hanging about are the sparrow, blackbird, thrush, and rock pigeon.
Watercare’s Coastal Walkway - South Auckland
Another path that takes in the sights along the foreshore of the Manukau Harbour is the Māngere Foreshore Path – a 14km walkway that starts at Ambury Regional Park and takes you alongside the coast, where you’ll encounter several examples of volcanic activity, including remnants of lava flows running into the harbour and the Māngere Lagoon explosion crater.
A quarter of the national wading bird population can be found in the Manukau Harbour at any given time; keep an eye out for eastern bar-tailed godwit, pied oyster catcher, banded dotterel and a range of other birds you may spot along the way. Not to mention the many farm animals you’ll encounter as you make your way past Ambury Regional Park during your hike – perfect for an outing with whānau.
Don’t miss out on the chance to see the lambs at Ambury Regional Park.
Arataki Visitor Centre & Loop Track – Waitakere Ranges
This is a family friendly, scenic 6km loop walk that combines three trails, the Beveridge Track, Pipeline Road and Slip Track. Don’t forget to check out the magnificent Arataki Visitor Centre, otherwise known as the gateway to the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, before or after your walk and make the most of the exhibitions and nature activities on offer, as well as a wonderful gift shop selling locally made goods.
Walk or run through lush native bush, with stunning views along the way; spot native wildlife like tūi, kererū and pīwakawaka. Whether you’re after a breath of fresh air and a leisurely walk or a fitness challenge, the Arataki Loop Track is a fantastic way to explore the Waitākere Ranges.
Come visit Arataki Visitor Centre in the heart of the Waitākere Ranges.
Te Ara Hura - Waiheke Island
For a unique way to actively explore Waiheke Island, check out Te Ara Hura. This track network spans 100km and gives adventurers access to Waiheke’s stunning coastlines, native bush and historic sites.
The great thing about Te Ara Hura is that you can customise your experience, depending on what you’re after. Choose between a day trip or a multi-day adventure -there’s a great range of tracks from short and easy through to the more challenging. You can also build your workout around overnight stays, tastings or great meals at vineyards and cafes. Simply follow the Te Ara Hura marker posts to stay on the trail and enjoy!
Te Ara Hura includes some of the best views on Waiheke Island, including Island Bay.
Protect our kauri
Kauri dieback in Auckland is a serious problem and it’s important we all play our part to prevent the spread of the disease.
If you enter or leave a forest/area with native trees anywhere across the region, here are three easy steps you need to remember:
For more information about Kauri Dieback, visit Kauri Protection for more information.
Always check the Auckland Council kauri webpage before going for a walk to find out what tracks are currently closed.
Be mindful of the threat of Kauri Dieback when traveling through tracks like Karamatura Track.
