From smooth cycle paths suitable for family outings to skateparks ideal for those intent on achieving a bit more air, getting the wheels rolling is a great way to be active.
Get outdoors, get active and make the most of the summer months with these great cycling and skating locations.
You can find more paths to enjoy on AKL Paths.
Te Atatū-to-City Path
Starting on Te Atatū Road, this path goes over the overbridge and onto the dedicated cycleway alongside the Northwestern Motorway. Pedal to your heart’s content and enjoy the views of the Whau River, Motu Manawa / Pollen Island Marine Reserve, Rangitoto Island and the Harbour Bridge.
When you reach Upper Queen Street, cruise along the pink Te Ara i Whiti / The Lightpath and admire the Auckland city skyline, before continuing to downtown on the dedicated cycle lane on Nelson Street. To go even further, continue on to Tāmaki Drive and ride all the way to St Heliers.
Ōrewa Skatepark
Hailed as one of the best-designed skateparks in New Zealand, this is perfect for all ages, abilities and whatever wheels you’ve got. There are large and medium half-pipes, turnaround quarter-pipes, a corner taco ramp, hipped corner, bridge, rails, ledges, pump bump and manual pad. And Ōrewa beach is nearby for a refreshing dip.
Pakuranga Rotary Path
Flat and paved, with some sections of boardwalk and gravel, this path makes for a great ride around the Tāmaki Estuary. Stretching from Prince Regent Drive in Farm Cove to the Panmure Bridge, there are gorgeous coastal views, as well as scenic spots for a pit stop or picnic, and playgrounds for the kids.
Crossfield Skatepark, Glendowie
Nestled at the bottom of Mount Taylor, this park is often bustling with skateboards and scooters, and there’s also a basketball court, playground and big field to kick a ball around in, too.
Arch Hill
Just five minutes from the city centre, there are more than 3km of trails – from “Training Wheels” for beginners to “Steep Street” and “Super Highway” to take it up a notch – at this scenic reserve alongside the Northwestern Motorway.
Hunua Ranges
About an hour from town, there’s a huge network of mountain bike trails – for beginners as well as advanced riders – with amazing scenery, jumps, fast off-camber corners, tight sections and great swimming holes. Before and after your ride, use the bike-cleaning stations, to protect the forest from the disease
Woodhill
One of Auckland's most popular destinations for mountain bikers, with tracks for all abilities and bike hire if you don’t have your own wheels. To blow off some steam midweek, head out on a Wednesday night, when the gates are open until 10pm.
Grey Lynn Pump Track
Grab the kids and get biking on this asphalt pump track, with heaps of twists, turns and jumps that are perfect for BMX and mountain bikes, skateboards and scooters. It’s great for all ability levels, but if you’re a beginner, it pays to get there early to beat the crowds.