Best Hiking Trails in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland

One of the best ways to experience Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland is by walking its trails. The city is unique — you can climb an ancient volcanic cone in the middle of the CBD, hike through lush rainforest in the Waitākere Ranges, or follow a coastal path to a wild west coast beach. Whether you’re after a quick stroll or a half-day adventure, the best hiking trails in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland show just how diverse this region really is.

Maungawhau – Mount Eden Summit Walk

The most famous of Auckland’s volcanic cones, Maungawhau (Mount Eden) rises above the city with a near-perfect crater and sweeping views across both harbours. The walk to the summit is short but full of interest, with paths winding past terraced slopes once used for Māori settlement and interpretive signs that share the mountain’s history. Reaching the top feels rewarding no matter your fitness level, making it one of the best hiking trails in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland for locals and visitors alike.

• Distance: 2 km return, about 30–45 minutes
• Panoramic views over the city and harbours
• Explore the crater and terraced slopes shaped by Māori settlement
• Easy access from central Auckland

Maungarei – Mount Wellington Domain Walk

Toni and I make a point of walking this track every time we’re in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland, especially after eating at one of our favourite spots — it always feels like a much-needed walk. The path climbs steadily, with some gentle but consistent uphill sections that get the legs working without being too tough. Maungarei (Mount Wellington) is another volcanic cone that offers a quieter alternative to Mount Eden, with its summit rewarding walkers with expansive views over the city and beyond.

• Distance: 1.5 km return, about 30 minutes
• 360-degree views across Auckland
• Less crowded than other cones
• Great for a short sunset hike

Rangitoto Island Summit Track – Volcanic Adventure

This is a very rewarding hike and one that will always stay with me. A trip to Rangitoto Island is a must-do for anyone who loves exploring unique landscapes. Just a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland, the summit track winds through lava fields, regenerating forest, and rugged volcanic terrain. The climb is steady but not difficult and reaching the summit gives you breathtaking views across the Hauraki Gulf and back to the city skyline.

• Distance: 7 km return, about 2 hours
• Ferry access from Auckland’s downtown ferry terminal
• Explore lava caves near the summit
• Incredible 360-degree views of the gulf and city skyline

Waitākere Ranges – Fairy Falls Track

We walked this track and beyond on our last visit to Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland, and I can tell you it was no easy stroll — though the peace and beauty more than made up for my heavy breathing along the way. The Waitākere Ranges are full of incredible forest walks, and Fairy Falls is a classic choice. The track winds through lush native bush before arriving at cascading waterfalls, making it one of the best hiking trails in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland if you’re after a mix of challenge and reward.

• Distance: 3 km one way, about 1.5–2 hours
• Walk through kauri forest and ferns
• Multiple waterfall viewpoints
• Moderate track with some steep sections

Te Henga Walkway – Bethells Beach Coastal Trail

For a coastal adventure, the Te Henga Walkway near Bethells Beach is a must. Its a beautiful walk and there is plenty of safe parking. This rugged west coast trail takes you along cliffs with sweeping ocean views and black-sand beaches below. It’s dramatic, wild, and unforgettable — one of the best hiking trails in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland.

• Distance: 10 km one way, allow 3–4 hours
• Spectacular coastal cliffs and ocean views
• Sections can be challenging but rewarding
• Connects Bethells Beach to Muriwai (car shuttle recommended)

There are so many more hikes in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland beyond these five highlights. The Waitākere Ranges alone are packed with tracks through native forest and waterfalls, while the west coast beaches offer rugged coastal trails that feel wild and untouched. If you’re keen to explore further, check out AllTrails Auckland for a full list of walks and hikes across the region.