Kauri Point Centennial Park Walk

Out and back

Getting There

Getting to the trailhead is a breeze. If you are driving from Auckland CBD, head north over the Harbour Bridge, take the Onewa Road exit, and navigate towards Birkdale.

The main park entrance is located on Onetaunga Road, directly opposite Chelsea View Drive. Keep an eye out for the green Brian Norton Track signpost. There is no dedicated car park, but there is plenty of free on-street parking available along Onetaunga Road. Just be respectful of local residents' driveways when parking.

Wildlife Spotting

The lush canopy of Kauri Point Centennial Park is alive with the sounds of native birdlife. It is a wonderful spot for a bit of birdwatching, so keep your eyes peeled and your ears open:

• Tūī (Common, year-round): You will almost certainly hear their liquid, metallic notes and throat-clearing coughs before you see them. Look up into the canopy, particularly around flowering flax or kōwhai trees.
• Fantail / Pīwakawaka (Common, year-round): These friendly little birds love to flutter close to hikers, using our footsteps to stir up small insects from the path.
• Grey Warbler / Riroriro (Occasional, year-round): Listen out for their long, delicate, trilling song high in the treetops.
• Silvereye / Tauhou (Common, year-round): Watch for small, busy flocks of these green-and-grey birds flitting through the undergrowth.
• Kingfisher / Kōtare (Occasional, year-round): Often seen perched silently on branches overlooking coastal areas, waiting to swoop down on fish or crabs.
• Morepork / Ruru (Occasional, year-round): If you start your walk near dusk, listen for the iconic "more-pork" call of New Zealand's native owl echoing through the trees.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Kauri Point Centennial Park Walk is a fantastic year-round adventure, with each season offering its own unique charm:

• Summer: The best time for swimming at Kendall Bay and seeing the fiery red blooms of the pōhutukawa trees fringing the coast.
• Autumn & Spring: Perfect for crisp morning walks with clear, blue-sky views across the harbour, without the summer heat.
• Winter: Moody and atmospheric, though you will need to watch your footing as the clay tracks can get muddy and slippery.

Best time of day: Aim for an early morning start to catch the sunrise lighting up the Auckland harbour, or a late afternoon walk to enjoy the golden hour.

• Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners are highly recommended due to the exposed tree roots and steep stairs.
• Water and Snacks: Bring a bottle of water and some snacks to enjoy down at Kendall Bay.
• Sun Protection: Parts of the ridge and the beach are quite exposed, so pack sunscreen and a hat.
• Dog Owners: Dogs are welcome off-leash in most areas of the park, making this a local favourite. However, please note that dogs must be on-leash at Kendall Bay beach during designated peak summer hours to protect other beachgoers and nesting birds.
• Kauri Dieback Prevention: Always use the footwear cleaning stations at the track entry and exit points to help protect our precious kauri trees from kauri dieback disease.

Local & Regional Context

This park is steeped in rich heritage. Long before European settlement, the headland was known as Te Mātārae ō Mana (the brow of Mana), named after an early chief. The fortified pā site played a crucial role in the history of the local iwi (tribes), providing a defensive stronghold with commanding views of the sea lanes.

In later history, the area was protected as a centennial park, ensuring that this vital pocket of coastal forest was saved from urban sprawl. Today, it stands as a testament to local conservation efforts. If you are keen for a longer day out, the park's network of trails connects directly to the neighbouring Chelsea Estate Heritage Park, where you can explore the historic sugar refinery grounds and additional lakeside walking trails.

After the Walk

After tackling those steep steps, you will definitely want to treat yourself. Fortunately, there are some fantastic local spots nearby to refuel:

• Loafers Bakery (0.6km away): Just a stone's throw from the track, this classic local bakery is perfect for grabbing a hot pie, a sweet treat, or a quick takeaway coffee to enjoy on the beach.
• Toasted Coffee Roasters (1.1km away): If you are serious about your coffee, head here. Known for their exceptional, locally roasted coffee and super friendly staff, it is a great spot for a quality caffeine hit and a tasty bite.
• Ohui Restaurant (2.5km away): For something a bit special, visit this North Shore gem. Opened in 2024 and led by a former chef from Auckland’s famous Homeland restaurant, Ohui offers a sensational seasonal menu showcasing fresh, local produce and bold, modern Kiwi flavours.
• The Good Home Birkenhead (2.7km away): Want to sit back with a cold pint and a hearty pub meal? This popular local pub in Birkenhead offers a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a rewarding day on the trails.

Gerygone igata

Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.

Best time: Year-round

1.1km away

Known for amazing coffee and friendly staff, a great spot for a quality caffeine fix and tasty food.