Auckland’s network of easy walking paths is calling. Tāmaki Makaurau has a rich and beautiful landscape, from volcanic cones to sacred maunga and sparkling harbours but don’t let the steep inclines stop you from exploring. Whether you’re navigating with a buggy, rolling in a chair, cruising on a bike or simply seeking a beautifully flat stroll, here is a guide to some of Auckland’s easy walking and scenic paths.
A central, coastal classic: Tāmaki Drive Coastal Path (Mission Bay to St Heliers)
Mission Bay beach and walkway.
The path connecting Mission Bay to St Heliers Beach is one of Auckland’s most popular shared paths, and for good reason! Shared by walkers, runners and all forms of wheels, this route offers stunning, uninterrupted views across the Hauraki Gulf toward the iconic cone of Rangitoto Island and Devonport. Not only is it beautiful, it’s also flat and accommodating for miles.
A southern treasure: Karaka Widepath
The Karaka Widepath in South Auckland has a path that is designed for accessibility and provides a great, family-friendly experience that comes with native birdsong, a coastal wetland and scenic views of the Manukau Harbour.
Karaka wide path.
The path offers a smooth, level surface that makes it perfect for a leisurely outing. The broad concrete shared path is ideal for pushchairs, bikes and wheelchairs; the route itself is mostly flat, with a couple of gentle undulations along the waterfront. Apart from minimal road crossings, the entire journey is safely off-road on a dedicated shared path.
Eastern tranquillity: Eastern Beach and Pakuranga Rotary Paths
Tucked away in the east, is a coastal paradise known for its golden sand and calm waters. The Eastern Beach Path runs along the foreshore, offering great accessibility and a genuinely relaxing atmosphere. This scenic walk is flat and great for people of all abilities as you take in the sights of the Hauraki Gulf islands - the footpath on the opposite side of the road to the beach is ideal for prams and wheelchairs, others can walk along the beach or on the grassy area.
Whether you’re after a quiet stroll or roll around East Auckland, there’s also the Pakuranga Rotary Path*. This popular path comes with stunning views of the Tāmaki River and Maungarei (Mount Wellington), where you’ll find a smooth flat ride around the edge of the water of the Tāmaki Estuary and Whakaaranga Creek, with a couple of short hills and some short sections of boardwalk and gravel.
*Please note that Pakuranga Rotary path has been closed since 28 October 2025 and will stay closed until around mid-December
West’s connected green spaces
Out west you’ll find a dynamic hub of interconnected, accessible walkways in the Henderson area.
Starting off with Henderson Park which boasts accessible routes, parking, picnic tables, drinking fountains and toilets. Along the northern route you can view the art bridge crossing the Opanuku Stream – keep an eye out for pīwakawaka (fantail), tūī and kōtare (kingfisher). Note that the Wilsher Crescent is the best access point for wheelchair users.
Opanuku Reserve Henderson.
The Opanuku Stream Path is one of the award-winning Twin Streams shared paths. At 9km long, this route is fully sealed and follows the Opanuku Stream, weaving through beautiful, sheltered native bush – perfect for a sunny or even a slightly cool day. It is officially buggy and push chair friendly, and can be accessed by wheelchairs, though be aware that while mostly smooth, it does have a few narrow sections and some short inclines.
Olympic Park is another great champion for accessibility, with its accessible routes, toilets, picnic table, drinking fountain and playground. This park provides a robust network of gentle, sealed concrete paths and access is simple from the four car parks, all of which include designated accessible parking spaces.
Olympic Park Pathway.
Once you know where to go, Tāmaki Makaurau caters to every Aucklander, so don’t miss out on these opportunities to explore – just call on your friends and whānau and enjoy.
