Northland, Walks & Parks

This 2 km track can be walked in either direction and will take about an hour each way. The track crosses farmland and leads up a steep ridge, across stiles and an unbridged stream to a large flat grassy area which is ideal for picnics and leads to the Caves Road entrance. The Waipu Caves feature stalactites, stalagmites and glowworms near the entrance. Be careful when walking the track as there are sinkholes underground. The inner caves should only be accessed by experienced cavers.

A short drive from downtown Auckland is Mission Bay, a child friendly swimming beach with a playground, fountain and picnic area. Walk along the promenade or there is plenty of room for games in the park. Kayaks and rollerblades can be hired during the summer months. Further along Tamaki Drive is St Helier’s Beach, a one kilometre long, white, sandy beach with a children’s playground.

This walk is easy and takes about 30 minutes return. It is suitable for most children, although younger children will need watching.

Two crescent shaped coves form beautiful Matai Bay. With its fine sand and safe swimming, it is a very popular beach for families and is a great place for a picnic.

This short walk is quite steep but is worth it for the swimming holes along the track on the way. There are birds to see on the way before you get to the end of the walk and the 20 metre long Piroa Falls. The road to the falls is unsealed.