The track follows coastal cliffs and is rutted and steep in sections. It becomes slippery after periods of rain. Take care around old slip sites. 

From Bethells Road the Te Henga Walkway crosses the Waitākere River by footbridge, rising along a graded section, to superb views of lagoons, dunes and the west coast surf down to O’Neill's Bay, where you can return along Bethells Beach. 

To continue along Te Henga Walkway, the track climbs steeply then follows along the cliff-top where you may see gannets diving for fish. The track exits through a farm valley and another steep climb to Constable Road. Care is needed on this track, which traverses coastal cliffs and is uneven and muddy in places.

This track is part of the Hillary Trail (external site) which connects a network of existing tracks and basic backpacker campgrounds in the Waitākere Ranges.

It takes trampers through the Waitākere Ranges, past the Arataki Visitor Centre, Huia, Whatipu, Karekare, Piha, Anawhata, and either winding north to Muriwai via the Te Henga Walkway, or through Cascade Kauri Park and onto Swanson.

Track crosses private land. Keep to the track and be careful around stock.

Parts of the track may be overgrown with gorse and flax.

Be aware of dangers on the tracks and surrounding areas including clifftops.

(ALERT: Partial closure to Te Henga Walkway due to slips)

Te Henga (Bethells Beach) is a coastal community of the Auckland Region in the north of the North Island, Auckland. The Maori name for the area "Te Henga" is in reference to the long foredunes which run along the beach and look like the "Henga" or "Gunwhale" of an upturned Waka hull. This name originally applied to a wide area of the lower Waitakere valley, but during the early 1900s the area became popular with visiting European immigrants who began to refer to the area as "Bethells Beach" after the Bethell Family who live there and still own much of the area. In 1976 the New Zealand Geographic Board officially named the area "Te Henga (Bethells Beach)".

Lion Rock is the most iconic landmark in the seaside village of Piha, west of Auckland; in New Zealand’s North Island.  If you are a hiker and are ready to conquer the peak, go to Loin Rock Track in the Waitakere Ranges Walk. The steep slopes require more effort, so it is not just easy walking or jogging. The humongous rock looks like a lion sitting on the shore.

Conquering the giant rock can take around 30-minutes. The trail is ideal for walking, nature tripping, and bird watching. The grassy lookout at the top of the volcanic rock rewards you with the most stunning views in all directions.

The Mercer Bay Loop Path starts high up above Piha and takes you to Te Ahua headland, the site of an important Māori pā (fortified village), with great views up and down the west coast.

Start at the end of Te Ahua Road, at the site of a former radio station. Take the time to look at the many interpretive signs here. This used to be an outpost of some significance.

The path works best in a clockwise direction, so start at the track entrance at the southern side of the car park. Follow the instructions at cleaning stations to protect the kauri trees in the Waitākere Ranges.

The first section of the path leads down through low regenerating forest.

At the track junction, keep right and head towards the former pā site. If you keep left at the junction, you’ll go down the restored Comans Track, all the way down to Karekare Beach. It is a long climb coming back up from there, so if you have limited time, turn right to the pā site.

Take the track to the lookout point and check out the pou (marker sculpture) that marks the site of the pā. This is an important place for Te Kawerau a Maki, the Māori iwi that has authority over this land, so please stay on the track.

A small lookout platform at the end of the trail provides amazing views to the north and south.

Back on the trail, keep to the left and climb up to the coastal route with more amazing views and wind-swept forest. The track takes you back to the northern end of the car park.

This is a beautiful coastal walk high above Piha, great for a family adventure.

Lake Wainamu is a beautiful lake located nearby Te Henga / Bethells Beach. It can be easily reached from Auckland. There is a very nice hike called Lake Wainamu Loop Track, as well as Sand Dunes, where you can have some sandboarding fun with your friends or kids. This makes the area a perfect spot for a day trip from Auckland.

Lake Wainamu is the largest natural lake in the Waitākere Ranges. It was formed by the damming of deep stream valleys by sand blown inland from the coast. It is the only landform of this type in the region. The lake is up to 12 metres deep and is fringed by wetland.

The Hillary Trail is a a four-day (three night) 75 km trek across rugged country reaching from Titirangi to Muriwai. It is named after the famour kiwi conqueror of Mt Everest, Sir Edmund Hilllary, and was opened on the second anniversary of his death. The route takes in spectacular views of coast and bush, a number of small coastal villages, and reaches through a number of ecological areas and landscapes. The aim of the trail is to provide a challenging experience for walkers, especially young people. It is not an easy track, because of the varying terrain, the rooty sometimes muddy tracks, and long legs. However, as its name suggests, it is meant to be a challenge, and completion is designed to provide great satisfaction of a challenge conquered for the walker.

Foveaux Walkway, situated in the heart of Bluff, beckons visitors with its alluring blend of natural beauty and urban tranquillity. This enchanting pathway provides a respite from the fast-paced rhythm of daily life, inviting you to immerse yourself in a world where vibrant greenery and city charm harmoniously coexist.

As you step onto Foveaux Walkway, the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city fade away, replaced by the gentle rustle of leaves and the melodious chirping of birds. The pathway meanders through meticulously landscaped gardens, offering a kaleidoscope of colours and fragrances that change with the seasons.

The lush foliage provides a shady canopy, creating the perfect ambience for a stroll, jog, or a quiet moment of contemplation. Well-maintained walking trails wind their way through the green oasis, guiding you to discover hidden corners and scenic viewpoints that unveil the area's natural splendour.

Foveaux Walkway is not merely a physical route; it's an immersive experience that encourages a connection with nature. Along the journey, you may encounter charming bridges spanning over bubbling streams, inviting benches strategically placed for moments of reflection, and perhaps even a captivating sculpture or two.

Whether you're a dedicated nature enthusiast, a city dweller seeking solace, or a casual visitor in search of a peaceful retreat, Foveaux Walkway promises a delightful escape. Explore the ever-changing tapestry of sights and sounds that unfold with each step, and allow yourself to be captivated by the serene ambience of this hidden gem in the heart of the city. Foveaux Walkway is an invitation to rediscover the simple joys of harmonious coexistence between nature and urban life.

Mokoroa Falls is located between Muriwai and the beautiful Waitakere Ranges. A well-maintained 40-minutes' walking Mokoroa Falls Track leads to the waterfall’s upper viewing platform. Mokoroa Falls is seen from there, but, unfortunately, only the top of the Houheria Stream Falls can be seen from this platform. There are no stairs on this part of the track, hence, with care, it is suitable for a wheelchair and kids strollers.

From the upper lookout, wooden stairs bring you to the base of both waterfalls. You need to cross the stream to reach the better view of both waterfalls. In flood, there is no way to reach the base of the waterfalls, so please be patient and enjoy the falls from the lookout. In good weather, it’s a perfect place for a picnic.

Return via the same track (40 minutes), or if you've got a reasonable level of fitness continue on to the Mokoroa Stream Track (requires a few stream crossings and passes a couple of beautiful cascades), then turn to the Goldie Bush Walkway. If you choose the second option, then the way back from waterfall will take roughly 3-4 hours. 

Wearing suitable footwear is advised as the trail has a history of rockfalls, and has slippery steps.

Temorarily Closed

Muriwai, also called Muriwai Beach, is a coastal community on the west coast of the Auckland Region in the North Island of New Zealand. The black-sand surf beach and surrounding area is a popular recreational area for Aucklanders. The Muriwai Regional Park includes a nesting site for a large colony of gannets.You can take the 1.5-hour Muriwai Beach Loop Track to spend more time in Muriwai's breathtaking beach setting. This walk will take you across the sand dunes to Muriwai Beach and back along the Coast Road Walkway.

This is also a great place to watch the sunset on a nice day. Set up a picnic and watch the day end.

From August to March each year you can watch the comings and goings of a busy gannet colony. It's hugely entertaining, and a little bit smelly!

Muriwai's gannet colony is a one hour drive from the centre of Auckland. Next to the car park, a short walking track leads to a viewing platform right above the main colony area. Out to sea, the colony continues on two vertical-sided islands. About 1,200 pairs of gannets nest here.

Karekare is a small coastal town in Northern New Zealand's Auckland area, sandwiched by a great black surfy beach from the Waitākère Ranges.

The more famous Piha Beach with the famed Lion Rock is nearby and the surfing culture is a favourite. But on the way to Piha beach, turn left off Piha Road and take the road to Karekare. The main parking lot is just 10 minutes walk away from the beach, accessible by many trails. There is a simple river flowing from the parking lot to the ocean.

The ideal and peaceful beach has tall cliff headlands, large black sand dunes and intense waves that make the spot so photogenic.

The Karekare falls are about fifteen minutes walk from the beach, or about seven minutes to the Karekare Rd main car park. The La Trobe trail leads to the glorious drops on the path from the carpark. When you walk down the road, the stunning Opal Pool Stream Cascade will greet you first. You will be honoured with the glorious view of the Karekare Falls as you proceed a little farther down the road.

There's lots of light close to the falls, particularly on a sunny day, where you pull your mat and relax. The watershed is a pool on the field where visitors can have a fun dip. This is an atmosphere where you can be fully environmentally conscious.

The beach and the falls are both part of the Karekare Regional Park, which has a small campsite, several walking trails and a few picnic areas (McCreeies Paddock Campground).

For those seeking something a bit further afield and more private should make a visit to Huia Beach (or Huia Reserve as it’s commonly known as.) in the Waitakere Ranges. Located 11 minutes away (8.6km) from the heart of Titirangi village, Huia beach and the surrounding town offers much to explore and maybe even a swim afterwards.

Huia is a little less busy than beaches like Cornwallis and for those seeking for some peace and quiet will enjoy that aspect.

Huia offers plenty for the outdoor enthusiasts with boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking and even abseiling being available in the surrounding area.

Those seeking a long walk can embark on the Upper Huia Dam Walk. A 17km long walk that will take you to two different dams in the Huia region and even an abandoned mine which has long since fallen into disrepair. It’s a 4 hour long round trip so be sure to bring a packed lunch and plenty of refreshments to keep you going.

After your days activities, make sure to stop off at Huia’s only store: Alfred’s Huia Store. It provides excellent coffee and food for not only the locals but hungry visitors. Be sure to pay them a visit and support the local businesses. Huia Bay travels far inland, providing a very sheltered cove that is excellent for water activities like jet skiing or kayaking but only in high tide. Low tide sees most of the water recede and a mushy sand beach is left in its place.

Cornwallis Beach is one of the more popular West Auckland beaches and the jewel in the crown of the Cornwallis neighbourhood. It boasts a wide array of attractions suitable for anyone!

Cornwallis Beach is one of the largest beaches that faces the Manukau harbour and offers plenty of scenery and space for families to partake in any activities from simple picnics and swimming to scenic walks, kayaking and fishing. The aforementioned can be practised at the Cornwallis Wharf, located further south along Cornwallis Road.

It’s highly recommended that every Aucklander and tourist visit Cornwallis at least once and enjoy the beautiful beach, with such a short journey to reach this stunning spot, there’s nothing stopping you! 

For those looking to take in the sights with their own two feet can depart on any number of walking tracks that can be found near Cornwallis. Most of these have remained open but be mindful that some have been closed to help combat the spread of the Kauri dieback disease.

The Arataki Visitor Centre is on Scenic Drive between Titirangi and Waiatarua. It is an iconic building, designed by architect Harry Turbott, and opened in the 1990s.

The most striking aspect of the building is the central pou, representing the ancestors of the iwi of the Waitakere Ranges, Te Kawerau a Maki. This is the second pou, and it was unveiled in 2011.

This centre is great educationally, as you can learn about the area, and species of insects and wildlife in the surrounding areas.

Nestled within the heart of Southland, the Omaui Track unfolds as a well-kept secret, inviting intrepid explorers to step off the well-trodden routes and immerse themselves in a realm of untouched natural splendour. Far from the bustling crowds, this trail promises a unique and secluded journey through diverse landscapes that paint an ever-changing canvas of beauty.

Begin your odyssey surrounded by lush greenery as the trail winds its way through ancient forests, their canopies creating a cathedral-like ambience that echoes with the melodies of local birdlife. The Omaui Track, though less renowned, offers an abundance of flora and fauna, each step revealing the delicate balance of ecosystems that have thrived undisturbed for generations.

As you traverse the undulating terrain, the trail occasionally opens up to panoramic vistas, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views. The crisp, untainted air fills your lungs, and the rhythmic cadence of your footsteps becomes a harmonious dance with the serene sounds of nature.

This hidden gem beckons adventurers to embrace the allure of the unknown. The Omaui Track is not merely a physical journey; it's an opportunity to reconnect with the natural world, to appreciate the subtleties of the landscape, and to find solace in the absence of modern distractions. Here, time seems to slow, allowing for introspection and a genuine appreciation for the simplicity and purity of the surroundings.

Throughout the trail, markers of local culture and history may reveal themselves—testaments to the communities that have thrived in harmony with this pristine wilderness. As the day draws to a close, find a peaceful spot to witness a breathtaking sunset, casting hues of orange and pink across the sky as the day gracefully gives way to the tranquillity of the night.

In the realm of the Omaui Track, every step is an invitation to discover, appreciate, and connect with nature in its most authentic form. This hidden sanctuary promises not only a physical journey but an unforgettable expedition into the heart of a pristine wilderness, where the soul finds its echo in the untouched beauty of the natural world.

Cathedral Caves are a highlight for visitors to The Catlins. Located in cliffs at the northern end of pristine Waipati Beach, they have attracted international interest for their length - the two sea-formed passages together measure just 200 metres - and their impressive height, up to 30 meters.

Popular for decades, this outstanding natural feature is 15km south of the village of Papatowai and 2km off the highway. From the car park, a one-kilometer walking track descends through lush coastal forest to the beach. Visitors cross Maori freehold land, which is managed by a trust.

Kawau Island is in the Hauraki Gulf, close to the north-eastern coast of the North Island of New Zealand. At its closest point it lies 1.4 km off the coast of the North Auckland Peninsula, just south of Tawharanui Peninsula, and about 8 km by sea journey from Sandspit Wharf, and shelters Kawau Bay to the north-east of Warkworth. It is 40 km north of Auckland. Mansion House in the Kawau Island Historic Reserve is an important historic tourist attraction. 

There are many native birds on the Island and as you wander around you will hear and see Tui, Fantail, Kereru, Kingfisher, Silver-eye, Grey warblers, the cheeky flightless Weka and many different sea birds. The Kawau shag nest in mighty Pohutukawa in the bays and little blue penguins are occasionally spotted around the shoreline. You may also see and hear bright-coloured Rosella and Kookaburras, native to Australia but settled on the Island. As dusk approaches the sound of Morepork can be heard in the bush and if you are lucky, you may even hear or see a Kiwi, as sightings are becoming more frequent as the population grows on the Island.

You usually arrive into Mansion Bay, from there you can walk over to the oldcopper mine and  smelting house. A manganese mine was established on the island in the 1840s; shortly after, copper was discovered by accident. Fascinating ruins of the underground seashore copper mine, a pumping engine house and a small smelter remain today. See the copper mine from the lookout at Lady’s Bay or the more active can relive history by following the Miners Track from the Mansion House through the bush and along the foreshore to the copper mine itself (fun for the kids).

Once a large private farm, the Tawharanui Regional Park covers the end of a peninsula that extends into the Pacific Ocean just north of Kawau Island. The long, sandy beach on the northern side is considered to be one of the best swimming and surfing venues in the Auckland region. There are grassed areas above the beach furnished with shady pohutukawa trees - a picnic paradise.

With stunning rock pools and caves to explore, this is really a family activity that no one will soon forget. 

Only 15 minutes north of Albany and 30 minutes from Auckland’s CBD, this growing beach-side town continues to create new experiences for relaxation and adventure – you can eat, shop and play – all in one beautiful location.

Quickly becoming known as the most vibrant ‘hospitality precinct’ in the area, you can eat at a different place every day for a month and never visit the same place twice, with cuisine options from across the globe, to suit all tastes.

When there is even a hint of wind, sails of both kite and wind surfers line the waters edge of the pristine 3km long beach.  Summer brings families to enjoy boogie boarding, beach volleyball, cycle the 7km long Te Area Tahuna track, kayak the estuary, walk through Eaves Bush Scenic Reserve, meander through the Estuary Arts Centre, enjoy some boutique shopping or enjoy the competition standard skate park.

The surprise jewel is the spectacular arthouse cinema complex, featuring three dramatic theatres: the Paradiso, with a ceiling of 10,000 paper roses; the Roxy, draped in romantic fabrics from ceiling to floor; and the Tivoli, with a stunning centrepiece of an 800kg chandelier.

Downstairs, the village square hosts an intriguing selection of independent specialty shops. You won’t find chain stores in Matakana Village; our strores are passionate about their carefully curated collections of art, homewares, fashion, jewellery and gifts. With food stores, beauty therapy, a chemist and eateries-a-plenty, Matakana Village has everything you need for your perfect weekend escape.

There is also a farmers market every Saturday! From award-winning coffee, to mouth-watering brunch dishes, there’s plenty to sample and savour. Relax by the riverside to live local music, while the kids explore the rustic treehouse and natural playground.

We’re proud to say the Matakana Market is zero waste – so bring your baskets or bags and stock up on fresh produce, flowers, breads, deli treats and sweets.

Perfect for a gourmet picnic, a special celebration or a weekend at the bach with friends.

Omaha Beach, New Zealand, is located just an hour’s drive north of Auckland and 15 minutes east of Warkworth. Omaha Beach is on the edge of ‘Matakana Wine Country’ and 15 vineyards can be reached within 15 minutes drive. The attractions of Goat Island marine reserve, Pakiri beach and the Tawharanui Regional Park are at our doorstep.

A beautiful white sandy beach, clean air, crystal clear waters and uninterrupted gulf and island views greet the intrepid wanderer. Surfers and windsurfers appreciate Omaha Beach which is carefully monitored by lifeguards. Omaha Beach is a great location for water-skiers, the recreational fisher or diver with good boat-launching facilities and a protected all-tides harbour that provides safe swimming for children.  A championship 18 hole golf course, tennis courts, bowling greens, kids’ playgrounds, reserves and walking tracks complete the family activities that round out this idyllic coastal playground.

Only minutes away from Omaha Beach there are cafes, restaurants, galleries, vineyards, farmers’ markets and the charming town of Matakana.

While Omaha Beach started as a beach resort, many families now call Omaha Beach their permanent home. Residents and weekenders alike enjoy the collective sense of our community in a relaxed and stylish manner. Omaha Beach benefits from its own microclimate quite different from that of Auckland.

Also known as Cape Rodney-Okakari Point Marine Reserve, Goat Island reserve boasts clear water, spectacular views and amazing snorkelling experiences. 

The beast way to experience Goat Island is to get into the water to see and swim with the huge variety of fish living around this area. You can either snorkel and explore the area close to the shore or if you’re an experienced diver, you can also visit deeper areas further out. 

Snorkel gear hire and glass bottom boat tours are available, so you don't have to come prepared, just bring your togs, towel and a bite to eat and drink. Don't forget your sunblock!

The Mahurangi Cement Works (near Warkworth) saw New Zealand’s first manufacturing of Portland cement in the 1880s.

Today the whole complex makes a picturesque ruin next to the lake formed by the flooded quarry alongside. As the remains of the first Portland cement works in the southern hemisphere, the ruin is of undoubted historical significance and in terms of industrial archaeology being a testament to the pioneering efforts of Nathaniel Wilson in this field.

There have been many reports of mysterious shadow apparitions moving amongst the stones. Odd lights, screams and the sound of a something like a generator coming from deep within the crumbling ruins.

This hidden gem is a great place to set up for a picnic or do some fishing. With a historical house set back from the beach, and lined with 100 year old trees, makes this the perfect spot for a family afternoon. At low tide, you can walk over to and around casnell island. Climb to the top for spectacular views, or walk around the base and go crab hunting under all the rocks!

In the surrounding areas, there are mussel and oyster farms which provides New Zealand wide famous seafood. The drive down boasts cute little communities, as well as aesthetically pleasing, architecturally designed houses.

Framed by native forest and cascading 20 meters over 3 tiers, the Purakaunui Falls are among the most photographed waterfalls in New Zealand. Enjoy the soundtrack of native birds and rushing water. 

Located just 17kms south of Owaka is the Purakaunui Falls Scenic Reserve. The Purakaunui Falls are a short walk from a car park area through impressive podocarp and beech forest.

The track is suitable for wheelchair access to the top viewing platform. It is then a fairly steep climb downwards to the lower platform which gives an amazing view of these picturesque falls. This makes for stunning photographic opportunities. You will find that not only are the Purakaunui Falls in most books about The Catlins, but they have also featured on a New Zealand postage stamp and many calendars.

Walk from the car park to falls – 20 minutes return.

Listen to the native birds as you walk through beautiful Southland bush to a spectacular 22-meter cascade waterfall surrounded on both sides by dark-green mossy rocks. 
A must-see waterfall in New Zealand!

To get there turn off the Chaslands Highway onto Rewcastle Road 11.6 km south of Papatowai. It's a further 3 km from the car park. The walk from this point is mostly easy-going along a well-maintained track through the native forest. There are a few steep steps to climb and some parts are wet underfoot but this is a walk the whole family can do. The striking finale is worth the effort!

Car park to falls – 20 minutes one way.

Scenic dunes, rugged coastline, sea mammals, and a historic lighthouse are to be found in this far southwest corner of The Catlins. A great spot for a walk or picnic, nature watching, or to soak up some history!

Waipapa Point has located approximately 10 km from Fortrose. From a car park area, it is a short walk to the lighthouse and the cemetery of many of the victims of a shipping disaster when the passenger steamer Tararua foundered off Waipapa Point on 29 April 1881. In response to this tragedy, when all but 20 of the 151 people aboard perished, a lighthouse was built becoming operational in 1884. It was automated in 1974 and remains active to this day although there is no public access now to enter the building.

At the base of the lighthouse sea lions and fur seals can often be seen. The sea lions sometimes put on a show fighting among themselves. Take care to not get in the way!

Car park to the lighthouse – 10 minutes one way.

A vibrant beachside destination with a city rhythm only 10 mins from Auckland’s CBD, Takapuna encompasses the best of everything – a relaxed beach atmosphere, designer shopping, a thriving hospitality scene with a huge variety of cafés, restaurants and bars with simply stunning views out across a white sand beach to the Hauraki Gulf and iconic Rangitoto Island.

Walk the historic ‘lava’ trail along the beach foreshore, paddle board or kayak at the beach or choose to relax by Lake Pupuke, Auckland’s only fresh water lake. Stroll the Sunday markets, take in a live show, enjoy the hospitality and stay close by. Takapuna has it all, so come along and join us, you will be most welcome.

A rugged and wild coastline next to a lovely beach provides the setting for a Petrified Forest, a Living forest, and a chance to see some amazing wildlife.

Curio Bay is of international significance for its Petrified Forest dating back to the Jurassic period. The tree fossils you see here, similar to Kauri and Matai, are approximately 170 million years old. The forest was alive when New Zealand was part of Gondwanaland.

Curio Bay’s Petrified Forest is best viewed at low tide from the viewing platform. Please do not damage or remove any fossils and to protect the wildlife, no dogs are permitted in the area. You can also walk through the Living Forest walkway and see how the Petrified Forest may have looked millions of years ago. This is a special occurrence in the world to see a fossil forest so close to its living counterpart.

You may also see protected Yellow-eyed Penguins at Curio Bay in the late afternoon as they come ashore after a day at sea. Please be sure to read the Department of Conservation information on these protected birds.

From Curio Bay, you could take a short walk to Porpoise Bay a beautiful beach for walking, and swimming, and where you may see the endangered Hector’s dolphins playing in the surf during the summer months.

The recently opened Curio Scape has a café and interactive museum.

Walk from the car park to Petrified Forest – 5 minutes.

Living Forest Walkway - 15 minutes return.

The grounds of Fort Takapuna is on a commanding position at the head of the Rangitoto Channel in the Hauraki Gulf. This made it an important lookout and defence site for hundreds of years, first for early Maori inhabitants and later for European settlers.

The area has been known by a number of names over the years: Fort Cautley, HMNZS Tamaki, and Narrow Neck. The original military title for the area is ‘Fort Takapuna’, named for the point on which it stands.

Features of the fort included twin six-inch disappearing guns, an underground magazine, barracks, observation posts, and engine room and searchlights. The structures situated on this site form a unique historic complex containing elements from all periods of coastal defence in New Zealand. The old fort, the last of the New Zealand designed twin 6 inch gun forts, was designed by Major Tudor-Boddam of the Royal Artillery and built between 1886 and 1889.

Spectacular views of windswept trees, southern ocean waves crashing onto the rocks and a photo opportunity at an iconic signpost are features of this southernmost point of the South Island.

Slope Point lies approximately 24 km from the small settlement of Waikawa  The signpost and cliff edge are an easy flat walk across private farmland from the carpark.  If there are sheep present, there is no public access during the lambing season (September – November). Please respect the animals and do not disturb the livestock (sheep and/or cattle) if present.

Car park to signpost – 10 minutes one way

Situated close to Devonport town centre, Cheltenham Beach is a sandy beach within close proximity to the North Head Historic Reserve. The beach enjoys splendid views of Rangitoto Island and is a popular spot for walks and kayaking.

The beach is a good spot for picnics with a couple of benches located in shaded areas from the trees that overlook the beach. The calm water is ideal for swimming, with a couple of cold water showers available.

There is a small footpath that leads directly from the beach up to the summit of North Head Historic Reserve which offers sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf, Waitemata Harbour and Auckland City.

The beach is a short walk from Torpedo Bay Historic Museum, a free to enter museum that provides a fascinating insight into New Zealand's military history. It's also a great place to grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the gorgeous views of the Auckland skyline and harbour. The scenic walk along King Edward Parade from the museum takes you back into the centre of Devonport. 

Enjoy the history and charm of Auckland’s waterfront. Whether it be a family day out or a relaxing day with friends, there is so much to see and experience by foot or bike. Start your stroll or ride along Curran Street in Herne Bay. You'll find street parking here, or good nearby public transport.

Nearby Point Erin Pool is a great spot for family fun during summer, with an outdoor pool, dive pool, hydro slides, spa, toddlers’ pool and family basketball court. Cross under the Auckland Harbour Bridge and admire stunning harbour views along the Westhaven Promenade. This is a great spot to view the sparkling Vector lights on the Harbour Bridge after dark. Head left up Beaumont Street to Silo Park. Silo Park is a hub of events: markets, outdoor movies, festivals and more.

Daldy Street Park will keep kids of all ages busy with a basketball court, playground, water play area and 7.5m slide. Further down Daldy Street, explore the community garden at the Dockline Tram Shed, Auckland Fish Market, or have a go on the public piano in the blue container.

Don't miss the Sounds of Sea (2009-2011, Company) and Wind Tree (1972, Michio Ihara) sculptures on North Wharf.

Dip your toes in the water at Karanga Plaza and admire the city view. At the kiosk there's even a bike fix-it stand on hand if you want to do a quick tune-up. Continue over Te Wero Bridge to the Viaduct precinct. There's plenty to see and do here, including sampling local restaurants and discovering New Zealand’s seafaring history at the Maritime Museum.

Auckland War Memorial Museum is one of New Zealand's first Museums. The Museum tells the story of New Zealand, its place in the Pacific and its people. The Museum is a war memorial for the province of Auckland and holds one of New Zealand's top three heritage libraries. It has pre-eminent Māori and Pacific collections, significant natural history resources and major social and military history collections, as well as decorative arts and pictorial collections.

For New Zealand Residents or citizens, the museum is free. They ask for a donation to help maintain the exhibits.