North Shore Coastal Walk

Part of Te Araroa, this picturesque 23.5km section of that trail can be done in its entirety, from Long Bay to Devonport, or tackled in smaller, bite-sized chunks.

Where is it?

Start at the Devonport ferry building, or at Long Bay Regional Park.

Terrain

Footpaths, easy tramping tracks and coastal sections. The tide will determine if you head further ashore at some points or continue along the shoreline.

Need to Know

TIME & DISTANCE: Approximately 7hr; 23.5km one way

FITNESS: Reasonable fitness required - good shoes are crucial

Dogs are allowed

Track Overview

This is a wonderful way to get to grips with the beauty of Auckland’s North Shore without having to penetrate the commercial hubs (although you will find numerous excellent cafés along the way). Departing from elegant Devonport, follow the foreshore before heading up over the crest of North Head towards Cheltenham Beach and Narrow Neck, undulating as you go. With Rangitoto Island constantly on the horizon, continue along the coast past Takapuna and towards Milford and Castor Bay. At low tide you’ll have rock pools to explore as well as a good selection of interpretation panels and relics from World War Two, gun emplacements, tunnels and sites of significance including Rahopara Historic Reserve at Castor Bay. The Mairangi Bay village is popular for lunch with several tasty options; from there press on past Murrays Bay, Rothesay Bay, Browns Bay, Waiake and Torbay before arriving at Long Bay where a swim, if you walk in warmer weather, will be welcome.

Takapuna Beach

Getty Images

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