My Favourite Scenic Hikes Near Auckland

3 days ago
3 min read

Perfect for an Autumn Adventure

One of my favourite things about living in the North Island is how quickly you can leave the noise of the city behind and step into native bush, rugged coastline or forest tracks.

Autumn is my favourite time of year to hike. If you're looking for somewhere beautiful to walk this season, these are a few of my favourite hikes near Auckland — each one with views that make the climb worthwhile. There’s nothing quite like finishing a hike and coming home to a hot shower, a delicious drink and a candle lit for the evening.

Here are a few of my favourites.

1. Hunua Ranges

📍 Cossey–Massey Loop Track

The Hunua Ranges feel like stepping into another world — towering native bush, birdsong echoing through the valleys and winding tracks that open up to incredible views.

The Cossey–Massey Loop Track is one of the most popular hikes in the park, and for good reason. The track takes you through beautiful forest, across small streams and up to sweeping viewpoints over the ranges. (AllTrails.com)

The loop is about 8 km and usually takes around 2.5–3 hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure.

If you’re already in the area, it’s also worth stopping by Hunua Falls nearby — especially after rain when the waterfall is at its most dramatic.

(This is actually where we’re planning a Candle Club community hike later this autumn - eek.)

2. Waitākere Ranges

📍 Mercer Bay Loop Track

If you want a hike with truly spectacular coastal views, Mercer Bay Loop Track is hard to beat.

This short but incredibly scenic walk takes you along rugged clifftops overlooking the Tasman Sea. On a clear day the views stretch endlessly across the ocean, with waves crashing against the black sand beaches far below.

The loop is only 2.3 km, so it’s perfect if you want something shorter with a big payoff. (AllTrails.com)

Just be mindful that parts of the track run close to the cliff edge — the views are incredible, but it’s definitely a place to take your time and tread carefully.

3. Omanawanui Track (Huia)

The Omanawanui Track is one of the most spectacular coastal hikes in the Auckland region.

This trail climbs steadily up a ridge before opening out to a 360-degree lookout across the Manukau Harbour, the Tasman Sea and the dramatic coastline of the Waitākere Ranges.

(AllTrails.com)

The track itself is about 4 km, but be warned — there are a lot of stairs. Thankfully the views along the way make every step worth it.

On a clear autumn day the light across the harbour is absolutely stunning.

4. Karamatura to Mount Donald McLean

If you're looking for something a little more challenging, this track is a rewarding climb through the heart of the Waitākere Ranges.

The hike begins in lush native bush before climbing steadily up toward the summit of Mount Donald McLean, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the ranges, the Manukau Harbour and even central Auckland in the distance. (AllTrails.com)

It’s a longer walk — about 11 km — but for experienced hikers it’s one of the most satisfying day hikes in the region.

Why Autumn Is the Best Time to Hike

Summer hikes are beautiful, but autumn is when the forest really feels peaceful.

The temperatures are cooler, the tracks are quieter and the soft golden light filtering through the trees feels almost cinematic.

It’s the perfect season to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with the outdoors.

For me, some of the best times of the season happen on these walks — stepping through the bush, listening to the birds and watching the landscape move toward winter.