Auckland is home to some stunning landscapes, with walks in the Waitākere Ranges offering opportunities to experience many of them. There are plenty to choose from, catering to all fitness levels. These trails feature rugged coastlines, native forests, panoramic vistas and are my top favourites to visit in the area.
As it’s not far from city these walks are a must-visit and once you’ve read the below I hope you’ll agree.
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TE WAHA POINT
Te Waha Point is one of the lesser-known walks in the Waitākere Ranges but still offers some striking views. Previously, it was accessible from Piha Beach, but the 2021 floods closed this section of the track, now making the best access point from Anawhata Road.
The trail begins at a higher elevation so you’ll have a downhill walk to the lookout and an uphill return journey. Towards the end of the track you’ll have sweeping views of Whites Beach and the dramatic coastline stretching north. I highly recommend this walk in the afternoon and combining it with the Anawhata Beach Lookout for sunset.
For further insights, check out my full blog post on Te Waha Point here.
COMANS TRACK
Comans Track includes both lush native bush and incredible coastal lookouts, making it a top pick among walks in the Waitākere Ranges. This 7.2 km (4.5 mile) trail is well-maintained so ideal for beginners and those new to exploring the Auckland area. The track also includes Mercer Bay Loop, one of the more popular trails and lookouts in the ranges.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best conditions for this hike, with cooler temperatures and softer light. These times are also much quieter than the middle of the day, so highly recommended.
For more detailed hints and tips, I’ve got you covered in my full guide to Comans Track.
OMANAWANUI
The Omanawanui Track stands out as one of the most rewarding day walks in the Waitākere Ranges, known for including over 2,400 stairs. With this many steps it does require a good amount of fitness, however the panoramic views at the summit make it worthwhile.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramas of the Manukau Harbour, Whatipū Beach, and the surrounding Waitākere Ranges. Even though it has a level of difficulty, the views make this track a favourite of mine. I’ve even been lucky enough to complete this walk a few times, none of which got any easier!
If you’re looking for more information on this track, visit my post here. It has everything you need to know.
ANAWHATA BEACH TRACK
Anawhata Beach Track offers a serene escape to one of the west coast’s more secluded beaches, perfect for avoiding crowds. Starting from Anawhata Parking area, this trail descends along a gravel road and through lush native bush before arriving at the beach.
With being situated on the west coast, Anawhata exudes a rugged beauty that is similar to other more well-know beaches like Piha. However, you’ll find that what sets it apart is its isolation, making it perfect for peace and quiet. While the walk is short, the return climb is steep, so prepare for a little workout on the way back.
For further tips and insights, check out my detailed guide on the Anawhata Beach Track.
MERCER BAY LOOP
The Mercer Bay Loop is a short circular track that boasts some of the most dramatic coastal views in Auckland. This 2.3 km loop winds along a clifftop trail, offering sights across Piha Beach, Whatipu, and the Tasman Sea.
With its easy access and manageable distance, this trail is ideal for families, casual walkers or those who are new and wanting to see the area. Photographers like myself will also love the cliffs and ocean views, especially at golden hour and sunset. For more detailed advice on this track, check out my full post on the Mercer Bay Loop here.
TE HENGA WALKWAY
The Te Henga Walkway connects Bethells Beach and Muriwai, forming a key section of the iconic Hillary Trail. While the full track remains closed after the large slips in 2023, the reopened section of Te Henga Walkway remains one of the most picturesque walks in the Waitākere Ranges.
Starting along Constable Road near Bethells Beach, you’ll start walking through farmland and native bush. There are two sections along the trail, Cliff Viewpoint and Tirikohua Point which offers some stunning scenery north to Muriwai and south to Bethells. This is again, another of my favourites so I highly suggest adding this to your list when you visit the Waitākere Ranges.
For updates on track conditions and closures, refer to DOC (Department of Conservation).
SUMMARY
In this post, we explored six of the best walks in the Waitākere Ranges. From Te Waha Point, a hidden coastal gem, to the challenging yet rewarding Omanawanui Track, these trails highlight some ultimate New Zealand destinations and cater to anyone and everyone looking to visit Auckland.
For more, dive into our comprehensive travel guides for expert tips on destinations worldwide.