Blockhouse Bay Circuit

45 Minutes • Easy with steps • Have you ever wondered what a “Block House” is? Well, today I found out. Blockhouse Bay walk includes Flounder Bay in West Auckland.

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The Blockhouse Bay markets are on every 2nd & last Sat of each month in the main street. At the street stalls, you can buy fresh fruit and veggies, fish, delicious breads, plants, sweets, dog food and more.

On Tuesdays, 10.00am-2.00pm the Blockhouse Bay Historical Society opens the doors of Armanasco House (on the Village Green next to the library).

Today I met Keith who explained to me that the old block house was a military building that was built so that it could withstand (or ‘block’) musket ball penetration. Several block houses were built in Auckland to protect the city from invasion during the Maori Wars.

The block house of Blockhouse Bay no longer exists, but the Society has a collection of photos and memorabilia, plus members have many fascinating stories.

Quick facts about this walk

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This Blockhouse Bay circuit walk begins at the National Bank, and winds through the renamed Gittos Domain (it was called Avondale South Domain) to Flounder Bay.

It is an undulating short bush walk with steep paths and steps to test our fitness levels. There are many bench seats along the way. It is very peaceful with just the sound of birds. Many of the native trees have been sign-posted. At low-tide it is possible to walk along the edge of the Bays.

This is a dog friendly walk with an off-leash exercise area.

Suggested Cafes: The Block, The Bay Cafe and Icoco Cafe.

Photos from my walk along the Blockhouse Bay Circuit

See more of my 150+ walks in Auckland

Helen Wenley

This project began in 2011. My friend Grace was the walk creator – with her knowledge of Auckland, she could “see” circular routes, and then it was up to me to map out, photograph, research and document the routes. At first, I relied upon my voice recorder and Google maps but then with the advancement of technology, the smart phone became a best friend and I was able to track our route. The best fun was when we were both pleasantly surprised by what there was to see. Beautiful wetlands, views and bush kept us inspired to explore more.

One Response

FreewalksNZ says:

4 March 2024 at 6:47 pm

Kia ora Sandra

I’m a local who gets lost on Gittos Reserve tracks despite it being such a small reserve. Today, despite trying to follow your instructions, I came out at a different exit!

I’d also just bought new walking shoes so now I’m gripping not slipping on the downhill paths. I found I focused on my feet not the views. I’d enjoy the Gittos Track more walking with others then chatting over coffee in Blockhouse Bay.

Thanks for your series of walks Sandra.

Nga mihi nui
Prue

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