Maungaūika / North Head Historic Reserve
Auckland
At a glance
North Head Historic Reserve is an enjoyable and scenic 20 minute walk from Devonport Ferry Terminal. The walk is an opportunity to enjoy views of the Hauraki Gulf and the Auckland skyline.
North Head is full of history and gorgeous views of Cheltenham beach, Waitemata Harbour, Auckland city, Mount Victoria Reserve and the Hauraki Gulf.
The 20 minute walk to the summit includes a series of tunnels that can be explored along with numerous guns that are a reminder of the military past. North Head's defences were last scaled up in 1941 when Japan entered the Second World War and guns were camouflaged in anticipation of an invasion that never happened.
Today, The Department of Conservation (DOC) maintains the area that's open daily. Visitors can also drive partially up the Mount with parking available.
Throughout the reserve there are plenty of seating areas to take in the views. There are also paths that lead down onto secluded bays and Cheltenham Beach.
