Milford to Takapuna

The Milford/Takapuna walk has long been a weekend favourite for Tāmaki Makaurau residents. It’s an easy stroll that takes you from one popular North Shore beach to another, while you soak up all the magic of the Hauraki Gulf as you go. You can begin the walk at either end (Milford or Takapuna) and it’s suitable for most fitness levels, taking approximately 45 minutes one way. Afterwards you can return the way you came or, for a change of scene, make the journey back via the streets behind the beach.

As you wander, there’s lots to see and do. You can peer into rock pools, and get a close up view of the local marine life; check out the fossil forest - a series of ancient tree trunks that were solidified in lava during a volcanic eruption around 100,000 years ago; and pause from time to time to take in the vistas of Auckland’s iconic Rangitoto and Motutapu Islands hovering out at sea.

On a fine day, you might like to include a refreshing dip in the sea as part of proceedings. Both Takapuna and Milford are good swimming beaches, or you can cool off on route at Thorne Bay.

If you’re in need of refreshments before or after your journey (or both!), there are good options at both destinations. Try the Takapuna Beach Cafe or head further into Milford where there’s lots on offer.

With so much to explore, this is a fun walk to do with kids - and they’ll be happy to know there are great playgrounds to try out at each end too.