Our recommended route requires a good level of fitness as the loop encounters a range of steep slopes and uneven terrain. There is a good pathway to the summit on a braod track suitable for buggies if you walk the route clockwise, however this is only out & back and misses many interesting features of this mountain.
| Walk time: | 60 – 90 mins |
| Distance: | 2.92km (yellow) |
| Surface: | Gravel or Grass Tracks |
| Difficulty: | 3/5 – some steep sections |
| Buggies/Wheelchairs: | 3/5 – the summit track is hilly but gradual if sticking to the main route and only completing the out & back walkway. The walkway to the Mangere Education Centre includes a lot of stairs. |
| Facilities: | Toilets, Seats, Football Fields, Playground, Skatepark |
| Highlights: | City Views, Harbour Views, Craters, Maori History |
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Mangere Mountain ranks as one of the most amazing places to explore in Auckland. It is full of surprises – three craters, fantastic 360-degree views, football & softball fields, playground and plenty of historic Maori heritage. Allow an hour or two to explore this volcanic mountain, plus additional time for the Mangere Education Centre if you are able.
We commenced our walk at the carpark near the soccer clubrooms and headed through the nearby gate. Our route takes us anti-clockwise on the eastern edge of the main crater and towards the playground. We then join the trail towards the Mangere Education Centre – well worth the walk. You will experience aspects of Maori history and heritage along this walkway.
Now its time to climb! If you have good fitness and are up for narrower and bumpy terrain continue on our recommended route by following the yellow trail on the Google Map. If you have a buggie or want something a bit less challenging, head clockwise up the main trail to the summit.
Our route passes adjacent to the second crater (the 3rd crater was quarried and is where the Soccer Fields and Education Centre are now situated). The views South and East and to the North as you climb will have you clicking your cameras. Continue upwards towards the upper rim of the main crater – the track is a little narrow and steep in places and can be a bit slippery in the wet – but worth the walk. Take in the sights at first high knoll plus the Trig for stunning views of Auckland.
As you venture around the rim you will pass numerous large kumera pits and other significant Maori heritage. It is worth following our recommended high route instead of the wider track back to the carpark.
To extend your walk you can also consider returning via the lower track that circumnavigates the mountain. It is a narrow but pleasant track through the grass but contains few noticeable special features that demand your attention.
The Mangere Mountain Domain contains some wide unsealed tracks that are suitable for ‘off-road’ buggies. These include the initial part of the Mangere Education Trail and the Trig Track walking in the clockwise direction.
Wheelchairs and standard strollers would be a challenge but with a strong person pushing might be okay.
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2 Responses
This makes me appreciate Auckland even more. I have passed this great mountain many times, but only recently decided to check it out with a group of like-minded walkers. Just takes my breath away the views from the top. Fantastic playground alongside the maunga too. Thanks as always Sandra for taking the guesswork out for the rest of us who want to walk these paths and trails.
Hi Theresa, thanks so much for the feedback. I’m so glad you enjoyed the walk and found something new to see in Auckland.
Thanks
Sandra