Keen walker David Mallowes from WalksOutEast offers suggestions about fun and interesting routes people can take to get some exercise and enjoy the area in his latest column.
Whitford in rural east Auckland is known for its rolling farmland and boutique cafés.
The Whitford Village Green, Turanga Reserve, and Wade’s Walkway offer an easily accessible semi-rural outing.
A 4km mainly flat walk: From the Lime Tree Cafe, wander down Whitford Wharf Road to a parking area, across the stream to the Village Green, and check out the old jetty on the left that used to service ferries from Auckland.
The Green is small but inviting, a grassy rectangle with picnic tables shaded by mature trees.
Follow the path around and back up to the roundabout. To access Wade’s Walkway, from the roundabout walk 50 metres along the bridle path on the right side of the road towards Howick.
The path follows the tidal Turanga Creek. You’ll almost certainly see herons and kingfishers in the shallows and mangroves.
This area was historically important to local Māori, particularly Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki, who used the creek for fishing and as a travel route.
The walkway’s quiet paths and natural setting offer a sense of connection to this long-standing history.
On the way back, maybe stop into the excellent Quay Art Gallery (open Thursdays to Sundays), Whitford Merchants, or the gift shops opposite the BP gas station. Maybe relax at The Stables bar and restaurant.
The Village Green and Wade’s Walkway offer a glimpse of Whitford’s character – part rural, part coastal, and proudly local.
- 4km. Dogs now allowed off-leash.
- Picnic tables and grassy spots for resting.
- Pushchairs – the track is easy going and slightly undulating, wide and metalled.
- Parking at the end of Whitford Wharf Road, at the Village Green, or at the end of Wades Road.
Like to make a day of it? Maybe visit the Whitford Bird Garden, Ayrlies Garden and Wetlands, Mangemangeroa Reserve, Point View Reserve, and Whitford Bridle Trail.
For photos of the route, visit Facebook page WalksOutEast, or for a one-minute aerial view video https://www.relive.com/view/v7O9ZMm7jL6
