Stunning coastlines, a fresh water lake, historic military tunnels, community arts theatres and galleries, and a friendly library cat are just some of the things that make Devonport-Takapuna a unique and treasured part of Auckland.
Just a short drive, bus or ferry ride from the city centre, the many popular beaches in the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board area are a year-round drawcard for locals and visitors alike to enjoy, whether taking a summer dip or walking the family dog.
“Summer is a great time to be on the shore,” says local board chair Joseph Bergin.
“With so many great beaches and reserves, major events and quality places to dine with family and friends, it positively buzzes on the shore over summer.”
In the last couple years the local board has completed a number of major projects in the area including the new international award-winning Devonport Library, the redevelopment of Victoria Wharf’s marine square and several large scale park improvement projects within Fort Takapuna, Taharoto and Greville Reserves.
Other projects soon to be completed include the Wairua Creek Bridge – a walking and cycling bridge in Milford, and the installation of a world class adventure playground for children at the southern end of the Takapuna Beach Reserve.
Suburbs include: Castor Bay, Milford, Takapuna, Belmont, Devonport, Bayswater, Crown Hill, Sunnynook and Forrest Hill.
Devonport-Takapuna population: 55,470 people or four per cent of Aucklanders (2013 census)
Cultural and sport facilities: Bruce Mason Centre, The Pumphouse, Rose Centre, Depot Artspace, Michael King Writers’ Centre and the Takapuna Pool and Leisure Centre.
Great things to do in Devonport-Takapuna
• Visit historic Devonport by ferry and check out the new wharf boardwalk and marine square areas. Read more about the recent upgrade here.
• Cycle the Green Route from Devonport to Takapuna through scenic local reserves.
• Take your kids to the new active sports facilities in Forest Hill.
• Check out the new Devonport Library and its famous resident Benjamin the cat
• Stretch your legs, learn about some of Devonport’s history and take in the stunning views of the harbour, city and the North Shore at Mt Victoria or North Head.
• Take a walk through the nature reserve around Lake Pupuke.
• Enjoy icecream or coffee overlooking the harbour at the ever popular Takapuna Beach Café.
• Check out the newly restored Second World War barracks at Fort Takapuna, Narrow Neck – soon to become new community facilities buildings.
Best kept secret: The recently transformed Greville Reserve in Forrest Hill. Young residents can enjoy new bike-riding, skateboarding and all weather soccer and rugby facilities. Find the reserve at the corner of East Coast Road and Forrest Hill Road, Forrest Hill.
Check out Our Auckland Events for local events coming up and keep up-to-date with what’s happening in Devonport-Takapuna by following the local board on Facebook.
