Auckland has a beautiful 1,200-kilometer shoreline, making it a perfect place for walking lovers. If you’re looking for the best walks in Auckland city and nearby areas, you’re in for some fun. This article will show you the 15 best walking tracks in Auckland, showing amazing views and special places that fit all fitness levels.
1. Mercer Bay Loop (Best Walk in Auckland Overall)
Distance: 2.1 km/1.3 mi
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
The Mercer Bay Loop offers some of the most spectacular sea views in New Zealand, making it one of the best walks in Auckland. Close to beautiful Piha, this quiet place gives a calm break in nature. The track shows beautiful views, grassy cliffs, and chances to see local birds. It’s a top pick for both locals and tourists wanting a relaxing outdoor experience. Get ready to enjoy a simple, memorable trip.
Tip: Perfect for a short weekend walk or a nature escape.
2. Omanawanui Track (Best Coastal Walk Auckland)
Distance: 4.8 km/3 mi
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
One of Auckland’s most breathtaking coastal walks lies just a stone’s throw from the city. The Omanawanui Track not only offers stunning views of the entrance to the Manukau Harbour but also provides a good workout, especially for those who may not be in peak shape. With its challenging stairs and captivating scenery, this track rivals the Mercer Bay Loop as one of the best walking tracks in West Auckland.
In this article, you’ll discover why the Omanawanui Track is a must visit and how to make the most of your hike. Check out a full hike description here.
Tip: Bring water and wear proper shoes for the coastal hike.
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3. Mount Eden (Auckland City Walk)
Distance: 2.1 km/1.3 mi
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Located on one of Auckland’s iconic volcanic hills, Mount Eden gives a clear view of the city’s volcanic past with big, amazing sights. As you walk up, you’ll see green grass next to the deep crater, showing Auckland’s earth story.
The simple paths make it good for beginners or anyone wanting an easy walk. At the top, a boardwalk lets you enjoy the city, Waitematā Harbour, and far islands on a clear day. Put on your walking shoes and enjoy this fun mix of nature and volcano beauty.
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Tip: Ideal for beginner walkers or a sunset view over Waitematā Harbour.
4. Rangitoto Summit Track
Distance: 5.1 km/3.2 mi
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Rising above the Hauraki Gulf with its cone-shaped top, Rangitoto Island is a famous landmark in Auckland. It is the youngest and biggest of Auckland’s volcanoes.
The Rangitoto Summit Track is a fun walk through one of Auckland’s most famous areas, formed by a volcano that erupted about 600 years ago. The trail changes from coastal forest to rough lava fields, showing the island’s volcano history, with wide views of Auckland city and the shining Hauraki Gulf along the way.
To start, take a ferry from downtown Auckland (return ticket 53 NZD/32 USD) and plan carefully, as the last ferry is limited. Whether you’re an experienced walker or just out for a stroll, reaching the top gives a great feeling and amazing views.
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Tip: Take the ferry from downtown Auckland.
5. One Tree Hill (Short Walk in Auckland with Sheep)
Distance: 4.2 km/2.6 mi
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Maungakiekie, or One Tree Hill, is more than just a pretty spot, it shows Auckland’s volcanic history. Walking along the Loop Road in Cornwall Park, with green fields and friendly sheep and cows around, makes it more than a regular walk.
This short but enjoyable walk ends at the top, where wide views show the city below and the sparkling Waitematā Harbour in the distance.
Tip: Stop by Cornwall Park Cafe for a quick snack.
6. Kitekite Falls
Distance: 2.7 km/1.7 mi
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
The visit to Kitekite Falls is more than just seeing a beautiful place, it gives a special link to the nature around it. Local Maori stories show why waterfalls are important, adding cultural meaning.
After enjoying the sights and sounds of the falls, a trip to nearby Piha Beach makes the adventure even better, where the rocky coast meets the waves of the Tasman Sea. Whether you’re an experienced walker or just visiting, Kitekite Falls offers a relaxing escape, with the walk to the falls full of green plants and the occasional look at eels swimming through the clear river.
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7. Hunua Falls (Waterfall Walk Auckland)
Distance: 1 km/0.6 mi
Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Located in the calm Hunua Ranges, Hunua Falls is more than just a beautiful waterfall; it is a doorway to New Zealand’s native forest. Driving south of Auckland, you’ll find the car park that starts the Hunua Falls Lookout Loop, where the sound of flowing water and moving leaves delights the senses.
This easy walking path lets you enjoy the green surroundings, with tall trees and colorful plants providing a peaceful break from city life.
Tip: Best for a quick nature escape from Auckland city.
8. Tamaki Drive Waterfront Walk
Distance: 8 km/5 mi
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Walking along Tamaki Drive is more than just a walk; it’s a moment that shows the true charm of Auckland’s busy waterfront. As you move along the path, the amazing views of the Hauraki Gulf open up, with boats smoothly passing by, making a lovely scene.
The green plants beside the walkway give a fresh break from the shining water, inviting you to stop and enjoy the beauty around you.
Tip: Perfect for sunny days and family strolls.
9. Northhead
Distance: 2.4 km/1.5 mi
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Northhead, a well known volcanic hill sitting at the entrance of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour, offers a special mix of natural beauty and history. This quiet volcano not only gives amazing wide views of the harbor and nearby islands but also reminds us of the area’s old volcanic past.
As you walk through its green spaces, you’re not just enjoying the lovely views; you’re entering a place shaped by old eruptions, showing the Earth’s strong forces.
If you want a longer walk, try the Devonport Loop. This path takes you up nearby Mount Victoria and North Head, so you can climb another one of Auckland’s volcanic hills.
Tip: Extend your walk with the Devonport Loop for more volcanic peaks.
10. Clevedon Scenic Reserve
Distance: 3.4 km/ 2.1 mi
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
A hidden gem in southeast Auckland, this moderate walk features kauri and totara trees, native bush, and birdlife, perfect for nature lovers.Clevedon Scenic Reserve is a special hidden place in the pretty area southeast of Auckland, offering a peaceful break in native forest.
This calm reserve invites visitors to walk along its curving paths, where every turn shows the beautiful sights and sounds of nature. Tall kauri and totara trees form a roof of leaves that supports many plants and birds, making it a great spot for bird lovers. Listen carefully, and you may hear the sweet songs of the tui and the gentle calls of the kereru in the green forest.
11. Mangemangeroa Reserve (Scenic Walk Auckland)
Distance: 5.8 km/ 3.6 mi
Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Just behind the houses of East Auckland, Mangemangeroa Reserve gives a calm break in nature that feels far from busy city life. The lovely track slowly follows an inlet, surrounded by thick original plants that support a lively environment.
With each step, visitors hear the happy sounds of fantails moving through the trees, and if you’re lucky, a wood pigeon may fly overhead, adding to the charm of this peaceful place.
The reserve is close to Shelly Beach, making it a great place to relax after your walk. The mix of beach views and green trees creates a calm, inviting spot for everyone.
This easy scenic walk follows an estuary, surrounded by native bush and birdlife. The path ends at Shelly Beach with peaceful views.
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12. Tawharanui Regional Park
Distance: 8.5 km/5.3 mi
Time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Just an hour from busy Auckland, Tawharanui Regional Park offers a quiet escape that feels far away. With its nice white sandy beaches, this spot invites locals and visitors to relax in the sun or explore its natural beauty. This moderate walk has white sandy beaches, protected bird habitats, and the Tawharanui Point Walk with coastal views.
Behind the beach, the park is great for bird lovers, its protected farmland and safe areas create a perfect home for local birds, making it an important place for New Zealand’s nature care.
And the best experience here is the Tawharanui Point Walk. This path invites walkers to enjoy amazing sea views, colorful plants, and a variety of wildlife, showing the area’s special natural life.
As you follow the trail, the calming sounds of the ocean and the cheerful songs of local birds are all around.
13. North Shore Coastal Walk (Day Hike Auckland)
Distance: 23 km/14.3 mi
Time: 6-7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
The North Shore Coastal Walk is a special hidden spot that shows the amazing variety of Auckland’s land. Running from Long Bay to Devonport, this long path can be walked all in about seven hours, but its best part is that it’s flexible, you can easily choose shorter parts to fit your time.
Each section delights with its own charm, including golden sandy beaches, nice boardwalks, and winding paths that go through green areas.
14. Auckland Coast to Coast Walkway
Distance: 16.4 km/10.2 mi
Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
The Auckland Coast to Coast Walk is an amazing city walk that goes from the calm Manukau Harbour to the sparkling Waitemata Harbour. Unlike remote trails, this walk shows the heart of Auckland, connecting busy city areas with beautiful views.
As you walk through streets and parks, you’ll discover the unique charm of local neighborhoods, with cafes, art pieces, and old landmarks, making every turn a fun surprise.This adventure is exciting, as the trail gives both a good workout and a fun chance to explore different areas.
This urban trail links Manukau Harbour to Waitematā Harbour, passing Mount Eden, One Tree Hill, and the Auckland Domain, offering a city and nature experience.
15. Musick Point
Distance: 2.7 km/1.7 mi
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Found in the peaceful places of East Auckland, Musick Point gives a special mix of amazing views and interesting history. As you follow the winding paths, the wide views of Rangitoto Island across the blue waters call out, showing visitors the area’s volcanic past.
An easy walk in East Auckland, with views of Rangitoto Island, volcanic landscapes, and historical spots like Te Waiarohia.
In 1942, Musick Point was named after pilot Ed Musick, who visited New Zealand in 1937. The headland is also called Te Waiarohia, after an old Māori fort. Today, it is home to a golf club and the Musick Memorial Radio Station.
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Enjoy the Best Walks in Auckland
As you explore all of our best walks in Auckland, don’t miss the coastal paths of the Auckland Domain, where you can enjoy the city views alongside peaceful green spaces. Or, go further to Rangitoto Island, where the mix of volcanic rocks and local forest feels like stepping back in time. Walking these different areas not only shows the natural beauty of New Zealand but also lets you reconnect with nature, making each walk a true experience of the landscapes around us.
Final Thoughts
To finish, Auckland is full of beautiful landscapes and walking paths for everyone, from easy walkers to serious hikers. Each trail gives a special view of the city’s natural beauty, lively culture, and interesting history. Whether you walk through green parks, along amazing coastlines, or up hills, these 15 walks will refresh your mind and give you memorable moments. So put on your walking shoes, grab your gear, and go explore the wonders waiting for you. Don’t forget to share your trips with friends and encourage them to try these wonderful paths.
FAQS
What is the easiest walk in Auckland?
Mercer Bay Loop, Mount Eden, and Musick Point are among the easiest and most scenic.
Which Auckland walk has the best coastal views?
Omanawanui Track, North Shore Coastal Walk, and Tawharanui Regional Park are top picks.
What is the cutest street in Auckland?
Karangahape Road, or K Road as it’s commonly called, is a well-known street in Auckland. It has a mixed history, but it’s mostly famous and loved for its diverse culture and variety of shops, cafes, and attractions.
What is the posh area of Auckland?
Herne Bay is on the southwest side of Waitematā Harbour, west of Auckland’s Harbour Bridge. It’s known as a prestigious area, famous for its harbour views, waterfront jetties, and old seaside villas.
What is the best area to stay in Auckland?
Downtown Auckland is a great place to stay if you want to be in the city center. From here, you’re close to public transport, landmarks, attractions, shopping, and more.