Amazing heritage walks in Auckland

Last Updated : 27 Jul 2018
Rangitoto heritage

Auckland literary heritage trail

This walk will introduce you to some of the Auckland landmarks that have inspired many great writers, and that feature within the pages of literary works.

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Rangitoto Ships' Graveyard

Wreck Bay and the adjacent coastline of Rangitoto is a graveyard for at least 13 ships that were dumped between 1887 and 1947. The Rangitoto hulks are now protected as a significant historic heritage place. It's best to visit at low tide.

Shakespear WWII defences at Shakespear Regional Park

10 amazing heritage walks in Auckland Shakespear

Eleven machine gun emplacements were built at Whangaparāoa in early 1942. Four of these remain, although only two are easy to find.

One, codenamed Milo, is on the heritage trail, while the other, codenamed Podges, is beside the Army Bay boat ramp.

Ōtuataua Stonefields walk, Māngere

10 amazing heritage walks in Auckland Otuataua

As one of only two major remnants of Auckland's 8000ha of volcanic stonefields, the 100ha Ōtuataua Stonefields is a site of significance to mana whenua, an important archaeological site and an educational resource. 

Take the historical walk to see some of what's been left behind, or the botanical or geological walks to explore the area's unique natural heritage.

Te Maketū walk

Te Maketū, near Pukekohe, offers a glimpse of the past. There's also a bush walk, waterfall and a swimming hole.

Symonds Street Cemetery heritage walks

Symonds Street Cemetery is one of New Zealand's oldest cemeteries. Our three trail guides have information about notable sites and their historical background. When you're finished, wander down to Karangahape Road for a coffee or check out Te Ara I Whiti – The Lightpath.

Tāwharanui Regional Park walks

Tāwharanui is 90km from central Auckland. As well as fascinating heritage walks, there are opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, enjoying nature and much more. 

Mutukāroa / Hamlins Hill - Mount Wellington

10 amazing heritage walks in Auckland Mutukaroa

Mutukaroa is a place of great significance to mana whenua, and a regionally rare example of an extensive pre-European Māori settlement.

Remains of habitation can be seen in the form of pits, terraces and middens (refuse).

Keen to find out more about Auckland’s heritage?

From 29 September to 14 October, the 2018 Auckland Heritage Festival will bring together over 200 free or low-cost events throughout Auckland to celebrate the people and cultures from all corners of the world that have made Tāmaki Makaurau the diverse city it is today.

See heritagefestival.co.nz from late August for the full list of events.

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