Looking for Auckland hikes perfect for winter and spring that will help you shake off the cold?
From ridge walks with sweeping coastal views to short forest loops perfect for a city escape, each of the following tracks offer something a little different. Most of these trails I have even hiked multiple times, and no matter when you go, you’ll be happy you did.
Ready to explore? Let’s dive in.
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COMANS TRACK AND MERCER BAY LOOP
Distance: 7.2km | 4.5 miles
Elevation: 490m
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: There-and-back plus loop
Open: Year-round
Ever wanted a hike that combines coastal cliffs and lush forest in one go? This is it.
There are two places you are able to start this walk from – the Mercer Bay Loop Carpark or Watchmans Road. Either way you’re in for a treat.
The full loop is 7.2 km (4.5 miles) and gives you that perfect mix of nature and ocean. But, in all honesty, Mercer Bay Loop is the real star here. At just 2.3 km, it packs a punch with views over the rugged coastline that look straight out of a movie.
The track is well-maintained, and while it’s beginner and family friendly, there are a few steep sections that’ll get your heart rate up. If you’re into photography, plan for sunset or golden hour. When the light changes over those cliffs it’s pretty incredible.
This is one of those tracks that can get busy but as it’s an Auckland hike perfect for winter and spring, you can expect a reduced amount of those on the trail during this time and it’s also a great introduction to the Waitākere Ranges.
Want to plan this for your next weekend? Check out my full Comans Track guide and Mercer Bay Loop post for everything you need to know.
TE HENGA WALKWAY
Distance: 3.7 km | 2.2 miles
Elevation: 170 meters
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: There-and-back
Open: Year-round
After a coastal walk that’s short, easy, and delivers views for days? Te Henga Walkway is your mate.
This track is part of the Hillary Trail and starts from Constable Road. It’s a cruisy 3.7 km (2.2 miles) return, weaving through farmland and native bush before reaching two epic viewpoints: Cliff Viewpoint and Tirikohua Point.
Here, you’ll see black sand beaches stretching further north towards Muriwai and south to Bethells. The views are very west coast-esk – vast and wild.
The track is narrow in parts with a few steep drop-offs, so sturdy shoes are a must. Unfortunately for us, some sections remain closed due to slips, however what’s open is still 100% worth it.
This is one of those Auckland hikes perfect for winter and spring when you need a nature fix without going far so before heading out, check DOC for track updates and read my Te Henga Walkway guide for tips on where to snap the best pics.
WAIROA LOOP AND SUSPENSION BRIDGE TRACK
Distance: 8 km | 5 miles
Elevation: 363m
Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Loop
Open: Year-round
Need a forest escape outside of the city that isn’t the west coast? This Hunua Ranges hike has you covered.
The Wairoa Loop and Suspension Bridge Track is an 8km (5 mile) loop that’ll make you feel miles away from the city. You’ll cross a suspension bridge, walk along the valley and wander through lush, native New Zealand bush.
There’s also a nice mix of flat ground, short stair climbs, and lookouts with views over the Wairoa Reservoir and Dam. Even though it’s one of the longer walks here, the track is well-formed and flows nicely, making it great for most fitness levels.
Winter and spring are the best times to tackle this Auckland hike – everything’s fresh, green, and alive after the rain.
If you’re keen to check it out, my Wairoa Loop and Suspension Bridge guide has everything you need to plan your day.
TE WAHA POINT
Distance: 2.1 km | 1.3 miles
Elevation: 116 meters
Duration: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy-Medium
Trail Type: There-and-back
Open: Year-round
Want a quiet trail where you’re more likely to see kererū than crowds? Te Waha Point is an Auckland hike perfect for winter and spring.
This lesser-known track sits above Anawhata Beach and offers incredible views that I could look at for days. The walk is only short–2.1 km (1.3 miles) return, starting from Anawhata Road but it’s a leg burner with a sharp decline first, then back up, so save some leg power for the return climb.
At the lookout, you’ll see Whites Beach below, with waves rolling in and cliffs stretching off into the distance. It feels wild and untouched – perfect for a golden hour mission, especially if you’d like to avoid the crowds.
Access from Piha remains closed due to flooding, so Anawhata Road is your best bet but if you’ve got time, make sure to add on the nearby Anawhata Beach lookout for a sunset.
Want the full lowdown before you go? My Te Waha Point Lookout and Anawhata Beach guides have directions, tips, and everything in between.
OMANAWANUI
Distance: 7.7 km | 4.8 miles
Elevation: 347m
Duration: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: There-and-back
Open: Year-round
If you’re chasing Auckland hikes perfect for winter and spring, this trail deserves a spot on your list. Craving a real leg day challenge? Omanawanui Track will set your calves on fire – but hey, at least the views are worth crying over.
This 7.7 km (4.8 mile) ridge walk near Whatipū has over 2,400 stairs. Yep, you read that right. It’s steep, exposed in parts, and a solid workout, but the views make every step worth it.
Looking out from the ridgeline, you’ll experience sweeping views over Manukau Harbour, Whatipū Beach, with the wild west coast stretching into the distance. It can undoubtedly say, it’s dramatic, beautiful, and one of the best payoff hikes in the Waitākere Ranges.
I’ve done this track a few times now. Spoiler alert: it never feels easier, but I’ve never regretted it either.
If you’re ready to tackle it, my Omanawanui Track guide has everything you need for the climb.
KARAMATURA TO MOUNT DONALD MCLEAN
Distance: 11.3 km | 7 miles
Elevation: 652 meters
Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Medium
Trail Type: There-and-back, including small loop
Open: Year-round
Like your golden hour with a side of stair climbs? Mount Donald McLean is one of those Auckland hikes perfect for winter and spring that will deliver both. Similar to its sister walk, Omanawanui, it has incredible views bit these stretch a little further.
Starting in Karamatura Valley, this 11.3 km (7 mile) walk climbs steadily through native bush to two lookouts. One faces west over Whatipū Beach and the other east back towards the city. Both views are incredible, especially if you time it for late afternoon.
If you’re into drone photography, this is a dream spot for sweeping shots over the ranges. And if you want to capture these views without the side of sweat? You can drive closer to the summit and walk just 10 minutes to the top.
It’s quieter than Omanawanui but still gives you those big coastal views that make Auckland hikes so special.
My Mount Donald McLean guide has directions, tips, and the best times to go, especially if you want to catch golden hour.
SUMMARY
In this post, we’ve explored some of the best Auckland hikes perfect for winter and spring – each with its own unique charm. Some will have your calves burning, others will simply refresh your soul for the week ahead.
If this guide has inspired your next micro-adventure, even better. If you’re looking for more inspiration, plus honest tips on where to chase golden hour, explore my full collection of ultimate New Zealand destinations here. Otherwise for a broader scope explore our comprehensive travel guides for destinations worldwide.