Greetings Everyone - Join us on Sunday as we walk from Smiths Bush to Kauri Glen Reserve
🟡 Some words to Inspire you:
The walk from Smiths Bush in Northcote to Kauri Glen Reserve is a lush, layered journey through Auckland’s urban wilds. Begin at Smiths Bush, where boardwalks wind beneath towering native trees and birdsong fills the air.
From there, head toward Tuff Crater—a volcanic basin ringed by mangroves and salt marsh, with a path that loops around its rim. Crossing the Exmouth Road overbridge offers sweeping views of the Waitematā Harbour and city skyline.
Continue through Onepoto Domain, a family-friendly park with playgrounds, wetlands, and open fields perfect for a picnic pause.
The final stretch leads into Kauri Glen Reserve, where shaded trails and a small waterfall offer a quiet finish. It’s a walk that blends geology, ecology, and community—ideal for slow explorers seeking nature tucked between neighborhoods. Bring water, curiosity, and time to linger.
Duration: About 3-4 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 9-10 km.
Difficulty: 2.0 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.
Cost for Car Poolers: $5 - Please pay the driver cash at Freemans Bay, otherwise you may not be able to come along.
AT Card: or Credit Card for the bus.
Toilets: Along the way
🟡 How the Grading Works:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/17iZoaM7SFaQcuyBF-AecNY8YBZeUpdxIvUmqpPfv1wo/edit?usp=drivesdk
🟡 Post-Hike Gathering (Optional):
After our adventure, you're welcome to join us for some well-deserved relaxation and camaraderie at the famous Northcote Tavern.
🟡 PLEASE: No smoking, animals, children or guests.
🟡 First Timers & Regulars:
We extend a warm welcome to newcomers, and we kindly request a gold coin donation ($2/5) to support our website and enhance the safety of our group.
You can also pay directly to our bank account
12-3430-0791504-00 - many thanks.
🟡 Important Notes:
Care should be taken when walking on the roads.
🟡 Health and Safety Information:
All Auckland Global Trekkers organisers work on a strictly voluntary basis and hold NO responsibility or liability for any injury, or loss suffered during the events organised.
Each person who participates accepts responsibility for making their own determinations and for their own safety, conduct and well being; recognising that there are hazards in attending group and outdoor activities and agrees to participate solely at their own risk.
🟡 Preparation is the key to having a good day:
Check the weather
Do you have the correct clothing and shoes?.
Do you know where the meeting places are?
🟡 Meeting Places:
NISHIKI FREEMANS BAY - 100 Wellington Street
Smiths Bush (Takapuna Cricket Club) 44 Northcote Rd.
Nothcote Tavern - 37 Queen Street Northcote Point
🟡 Carpooling:
Carpooling will be arranged for everyone meeting at Freeman’s Bay.
Just ANSWER the RSVP question.
🟡 Time Guideline:
08:30 - Good Time to meet at NISHIKI FREEMANS BAY
08:45 - Car Pooling organised and leave
09:00 - Everyone at the Takapuna Cricket Club
09:10 - Introductions
and start the trek.
14:30 - Finish (Approx)
Get bus 94 from Northcote College to Smiths Bush.
Runs every 15 minutes.
15:00 - 16:00 - Northcote Tavern (Optional)
16:15 - Arrive back at CBD
🟡 Maps and More Information:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ds5h8rHLURZYdMWE7
🟡 Walk Description & Directions:
Starting from Smiths Bush we do a loop on the board walk and then walk along the road to The Warehouse Group and do the Tuft Crater Walk, cross the Exmouth Road over bridge for a view of the city. Carry on the Onepoto Reserve, walk round the lake. Follow the tracks to Rotary Reserve, walk along Lake Road and take the track to Kauri Glen Reserve and walk in the trees on the boardwalk.
🟡 Capture the Moment:
Share your best photos of the day to have a chance to be featured on our Instagram Account.
🟡 What to Bring:
Appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.
Comfortable shoes suitable for a variety of terrains.
Sun protection and emergency rain gear.
Personal first-aid items
🟡 Additional Notes:
Safety and togetherness are our priorities. We will make stops at all track junctions to ensure the group stays together.
Punctuality is key, and we will depart on time, so please be prompt.
We can't wait to go trekking with you on Sunday - Chris and the Team