Explore Leigh's Goat Island walk

The track starts at the main Goat Island car park and leads down to the Auckland University Marine Laboratory via a signposted path. From there, a gravel track offers scenic views from a hill-top overlooking Goat Island, Pakiri, and Little Barrier Island.

Quick facts about this walk

Location: Leigh, Northland, North Island
Distance: 1.6 km
Time: 25 mins
Difficulty: Super easy
Elevation: Flat walking
Track Quality: Excellent grassy track
Mountain bikes?: no
Wheelchair access?: no
Toilets: There are toilets at the carpark
Dogs: Only on a lead or leash
Mobile coverage: Yes
Public transport: You’ll have to make your own way here by car

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Full walk description

I start my walk at the main Goat Island car park, descending the hill and following the path toward the Auckland University Marine Laboratory, beginning at the signpost on the right side of the driveway.

The gravel path goes behind the University, leading me to a hill-top that offers awesome views of Goat Island, Pakiri, and Little Barrier Island. I continued on the track as it dips into a valley, with a lovely stretch of coastal broadleaf bush, and ends at Tabletop Reef. 

Here, I am treated to stunning views out to the Hauraki Gulf, Little Barrier Island, and the Hen and Chicken Islands.

There is a side walk you can do through kissing gate, but I didn’t have time for this. If you want to do it follow the fence line to Matheson Bush Road. Follow this road to Cape Rodney Road and turn right towards the lookout. Cross a stile to navigate the track skirting the farmland, which takes you back towards Goat Island. This walk connects back to the main route.

SAVE 47%: on last minute Transparent Kayak rental in Goat Island

Map location and track

My 3d video of the walk

See my photos of the Goat Island Coastal Walkway

See more of my walks in Leigh