I took a steep but scenic walk up to Stony Batter on Waiheke, leaving our boat at a quiet cove near Man O’ War Bay. It was a solid 45-minute climb through farmland, but the views were worth every step. At the top, I explored the massive WWII gun emplacements – these huge concrete bunkers were built to defend Auckland during the war. The underground tunnels were closed when I visited, but just wandering around the old military site and taking in those epic gulf views made for a fantastic day out.

Quick Facts

Location: Waiheke Island, North Island
Difficulty: Medium
Duration: 1 hour 35 minutes there and back
Distance: 4.8 km return
Elevation: 259m
Dogs: Not allowed
Mobile: Ok at the top

My walk description

We came in on our own boat at this gorgeous little unnamed beach right at the start of the Stony Batter Walkway. See my 3d map further down for the exact location. The weather was absolutely perfect. While our beach didn’t seem to have a name on the map, it sits right between Opopo Bay and Man o’War Bay. You can start the walk from Man o’War Bay too, but you’d be adding a fair bit of road walking to your trip.

The track starts with a slightly hidden sign (mother nature’s been busy growing grass all over it!). While it claims to be an hour to the reserve, we knocked it out in about 45 minutes. Fair warning though – you’re in for a proper workout right from the start. It’s a steady uphill climb all the way to the summit, but trust me, those views at the top make every step worth it. You can see forever up there!

After you’ve caught your breath at the top, it’s smooth sailing through the paddocks to the reserve. Just keep an eye out for the local residents – those cows can be quite curious! Definitely glad we came in by boat and started from our little secret beach.

We retraced our steps back to the boat, taking in those amazing views one last time. It’s a fantastic walk that combines beautiful landscapes with a fascinating slice of New Zealand’s wartime history.

History of Stony Batter

Stony Batter was built during World War II as part of Auckland’s coastal defense network. Construction began in 1942 in response to the threat of Japanese invasion. The facility features an impressive network of tunnels – over 1.2 kilometers of them – carved through solid rock. The main attractions are the three 9.2-inch gun emplacements, which were designed to protect the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland’s eastern approaches. Though the guns were installed by 1944, they were never actually fired in combat. The whole complex was kept highly secret during the war, with local farmers sworn to secrecy about its construction.

What makes Stony Batter particularly interesting is that it’s one of the best-preserved coastal defense installations in New Zealand. The gun pits themselves are engineering marvels – each concrete emplacement is about 30 feet deep and built to withstand direct hits from enemy fire. The underground complex included ammunition stores, engine rooms, and accommodation for up to 200 personnel.

Terrain and Track Surface

The track is fairly well-maintained, so it’s easy for everyone. It’s mostly a grassy track. I would think if it was raining or after a big rain the first up hill part would be very slippery.

Facilities

  • Toilets: Nope, none here. Plan ahead!
  • Picnic Areas: No official spots, but plenty of space to throw down a blanket at the tunnels, there is plenty of grass under trees.
  • Water Refill Stations: Bring your own water none available

 

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Stony Batter depends on what you’re hoping to get out of your trip. Here’s what I’d recommend:

For the best weather and views: Summer (December-February) and early autumn (March-April) provide the most reliable weather and clearest visibility for those panoramic Hauraki Gulf views. But go early in the day to avoid the midday heat since there’s limited shade on the track.

For a quieter experience: Spring (September-November) or late autumn (May) are ideal. You’ll get mild temperatures and fewer visitors, plus the spring wildflowers can be beautiful. Just pack a light raincoat as weather can be changeable.

Keep in mind:

  • Morning visits are best to avoid afternoon sea breezes which can be strong at the top
  • The track can get quite muddy and slippery after rain
  • During summer weekends and holidays, it’s busier due to ferry traffic
  • Winter (June-August) can be quite wet and windy, making the exposed track challenging

 

If you’re going by boat like I did, you’ll also want to check the marine forecast since the little beach landing can get choppy in strong easterlies.

Accessibility

Not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs due to uneven terrain.

Map location and track

My 3d Map of Stony Batter Walkway

Photos from my walk

See more of my walks in Waiheke Island