Keen walker David Mallowes offers suggestions about fun and interesting routes people can take to get some exercise and enjoy the area in his latest column.
A superb new pedestrian bridge, Te Kōpua o Hiku, meaning The Deep Pool of Hiku, has reopened the Panmure Basin walking loop.
A long-time favourite for walkers and joggers, this is a great outing for young families.
The sleek new 60-metre bridge now links the two sides of the basin (once a volcanic crater), completing the circuit around the water’s edge with views of Mount Wellington.
The path is wide and mostly sealed.
If you time your walk right, the much-loved miniature train rides by the Waipuna Road entrance operate Sundays from 1pm-4pm.
There’s a playground adjacent, and a pond with miniature boats and sometimes small sleek radio-controlled yachts.
On Sunday mornings you can take the controls of one of the boats for $2 for five minutes.
At the western end of the bridge it’s well worth a 200 metre detour for a great view of a shag colony nesting in pohutukawa trees – just follow the signs from the bridge.
Toilets – three blocks equidistant around the loop.
Fitness equipment, picnic tables and seating – yes!
Parking – end of Cleary Road, 100 Ireland Road, Peterson Road (off Waipuna Rd).
Dogs – on-leash.
Pushchairs yes, easy, some up hills.
The walk – 35 minutes, 4000 steps.
Make a splash at Swimarama: After your walk, maybe visit Swimarama – indoor and outdoor pools, spa pool, splash pad, and a well-equipped gym.
Scenic extensions: Feeling energetic? You can keep the adventure going.
- Head north and up the slope to Maungarei / Mount Wellington, one of Auckland’s youngest volcanic cones, for panoramic views and a quiet moment with nature.
- Head east over the Panmure bridge to the Rotary Walkway, winding along the Pakuranga shoreline, eventually reaching Pigeon Mountain and Half Moon Bay.
- Or venture north-east to Tahuna Torea Nature Reserve, a peaceful bird sanctuary with tidal flats, bush tracks and boardwalks.
To see more photos of the walkway, visit www.facebook.com/walksouteastauckland.
- The next walks column will feature the Clevedon Scenic Reserve, and the following the Macleans Reserve.
