No matter where you are or how long you’ve got, Auckland has a walk for you.
Whether you’re wanting to pick up a sweat, looking for more of a leisurely stroll or somewhere to take the kids, there’s hundreds of walks to discover.
Here’s our top picks if you’re heading south-side.
Ambury Foreshore Path
Take a walk along the coast of the Manukau Harbour in picturesque Ambury Regional Park. The Ambury Foreshore Path is a great spot for birding and seeing examples of basalt lava flows. You can access the track from the far end of the main car park. Follow the yellow markers and discover the local history of the area by reading the information panels along the way.
Ōtuataua Stonefields Path
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 this walk to see some of what's been left behind and explore the area's unique natural heritage.
Auckland Botanic Gardens
This gem of south Auckland is the perfect place for a brisk stroll around the lakes or relax and be inspired by more than 10,000 plants from around the world. Check out the two sculpture paths – East Path and West Path.
Pāhurehure Esplanade Path
Get out and enjoy the views over the Pāhurehure Inlet on the Pāhurehure Esplanade Path. This scenic walkway is a combination of paved path and boardwalk, so it's perfect for strolling with a pram or with the kids on scooters.
Tōtara Puhinui Creek Path
Walk along the fringe of a Tōtara forest and across the Puhinui Creek on the Tōtara Puhinui Creek Path. Tōtara Park is home to a variety of bird habitats, so keep an ear and eye out for kererū, pīpīwharauroa (shining cuckoo), ruru (morepork), pīwakawaka (fantail), riroriro (grey warbler), tūī and kākā. There's also a fantastic off-leash dog area along this path with wide expanses of green space for dogs to run around.
Wattle Downs South Path
If you’re wanting a long walk, check out the 8km Wattle Downs South Path. This is a peaceful walk around the edge of the Wattle Downs peninsula and offers beautiful coastal views.
Keep our kauri standing
Help prevent the spread of kauri dieback. If you enter or leave a forest/area with native trees anywhere across the region, here are three easy steps you need to remember:
- Scrub– clean all soil off your footwear and gear. Kauri dieback can be spread by just a pinhead of soil.
- Spray– your footwear and gear with disinfectant at every cleaning station you encounter.
- Stay– on track and off kauri roots.
Always check the Auckland Council kauri webpage before going for a walk to find out what tracks are currently closed.
Get together this February
Check out OurAuckland for other great ideas on how you can get together with friends and family this February.
