Awaroa Walkway

Point to point

Highlights & Must-See Features

• The Views from Musick Point (Te Naupata): Saving the best for last, the northern terminus at Musick Point offers truly breathtaking, 360-degree vistas. Standing atop these dramatic cliffs, you can watch yachts gliding across the gulf and waves crashing far below.
• World War II History: Keep your eyes peeled near Cockle Bay for a historic World War II gun emplacement. It is a fascinating, tangible link to New Zealand’s wartime coastal defences and a great spot for kids to learn a bit of local history.
• Cockle Bay and Eastern Beach: These are stunning spots to pause, kick off your shoes, and feel the sand between your toes. Eastern Beach, with its long, sweeping arc of white sand, is particularly popular for a refreshing mid-walk dip in the summer.
• Intertidal Exploration: If you time your walk for low tide, the rocky platforms between the beaches become a playground of marine life, perfect for curious kids (and adults!) to explore.

Getting There

The Awaroa Walkway is a point-to-point trail, meaning you can start at either end, though most hikers prefer starting from the south at Shelly Park and finishing with the grand views at Musick Point.

Because it is a point-to-point track, you will want to either arrange a car drop at the finish line, use public transport, or plan to walk a portion of the trail and loop back.

• Sandspit Road (near Shelly Park Beach – ideal for starting the full walk)
• Cockle Bay
• Howick Beach
• Mellons Bay
• Eastern Beach
• Musick Point (ideal if you want to do the walk in reverse)

Wildlife Spotting

The mix of mature native bush, coastal gullies, and open shoreline means the Awaroa Walkway is teeming with birdlife. As you walk under the canopy of the bush reserves, keep your ears open for the distinct, bell-like call of the Tūī and the cheerful chatter of the Fantail (pīwakawaka), both of which are very common year-round.

You are also highly likely to hear the tiny Grey Warbler (riroriro) singing its delicate song from the treetops, while flocks of Silvereyes (tauhou) flit through the low shrubs. If you keep a sharp eye on the coastal clay cliffs and overhanging branches near the water, you might spot the flash of electric blue from a Sacred Kingfisher (kōtare) waiting to dart down for a snack. Overhead, look out for the heavy, rhythmic wingbeats of the Kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon) swooping between the native trees.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Best Seasons: The Awaroa Walkway is a fantastic year-round destination. In Summer, the beaches are perfect for swimming, though you will need plenty of sunscreen. Autumn and Spring offer cooler, crisper days that are ideal for tackling the full 17km length. Even in Winter, a brisk walk along the cliffs with the wind in your hair is incredibly rejuvenating.
• The Golden Rule: Always check the tide tables before you set off. Walking the beach sections at low tide is highly recommended for the best experience, as it keeps you off the road detours and right on the beautiful coastline.
• What to Wear and Pack: Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners are essential, as you will be transitioning between soft sand, wet rocks, gravel paths, and paved roads. Bring plenty of water (at least 1.5 to 2 litres if you are doing the whole distance), some energy-boosting snacks, a sun hat, and a light windbreaker to protect against the coastal breezes.
• Dog-Friendly Info: This is an incredibly dog-friendly route, though you should check local signage as some specific beach sections have seasonal on/off-leash hours to protect local wildlife and beachgoers.

Local & Regional Context

The land surrounding the Awaroa Walkway is rich with cultural and historical significance. To local Māori, the headland at Musick Point is known as Te Naupata, a place of deep ancestral connection. Awaroa itself translates to "long river" or "long creek," likely referencing the winding waterways and the nearby Tāmaki Estuary, which served as a vital highway for waka (canoes) in pre-European times.

In the mid-19th century, Howick became a prominent settlement for the Fencibles—retired British soldiers settled here to defend the young Auckland colony. As you walk the coastline, you are literally retracing the steps of early settlers, maritime traders, and the indigenous guardians of the land.

After the Walk

After completing a 17km hike, you will definitely have worked up an appetite! Fortunately, the vibrant Howick Village is just a short 3km drive (or detour) from the main trail, offering some fantastic spots to relax, refuel, and swap stories from the trail.

• Howick Village Cafe: If you finish your walk in the morning or early afternoon, this bustling local favourite is the place to go. Known for its fantastic coffee, warm hospitality, and beautifully presented classic cafe food, it is a wonderful spot to sit back and relax.
• The Good Home Howick: Looking for something hearty? This welcoming, family-friendly restaurant offers classic home-style cooking with a modern, delicious twist. Its sunny, relaxed courtyard is the perfect place to unwind with a cold drink after a long day on your feet.
• The Corner Bar Howick: If you have your four-legged walking companion with you, head over to this lively local spot. It features a dog-friendly atmosphere, an excellent selection of craft beers, cocktails, and delicious tapas-style plates designed for sharing.

2.9km away

A welcoming restaurant and bar in Howick Village, offering classic home-style cooking with a modern twist, a variety of drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere with a sunny courtyard.