-
More info He pārongo atu anō
Visit website
Ōwairaka, the dwelling place of Wairaka, is a place of great significance to Māori and an important archaeological site. Although heavily modified in pre-European times to form a defensive pā, much of the maunga was destroyed by quarrying and other modern developments. Despite this, it remains an important part of Auckland's landscape and cultural heritage. Visitors are advised to tread with care and stick to the formed paths.
The maunga is the site of ancient volcanic activity that produced a tuff ring, scoria cone, and lava flows that shaped the local landscape. Lava caves can still be found within the flows from Ōwairaka.
To recognize its cultural, historic, and archaeological significance, the tihi and summit road at Ōwairaka / Te Ahi-kā-a-Rakataura / Mt Albert has been permanently closed to private motor vehicles since 2019.
Getting there Te huarahi ki reira
If you're driving, there is a small car park near the entrance. Alternatively, you can catch a train or bus, with the closest station being Baldwin Avenue on the Western Line. From there, it's a short walk to the base of the mountain.
Local tip He tīwhiri mō te rohe
Explore the nearby Oakley Creek Walkway to find one of Auckland's best kept secrets - a six-metre high natural waterfall.