Best places: Hiking areas in Whau, New Zealand

Hikes over black rock created by lava flows on a volcanic island with panoramic views over the gulf.

👍👍 It’s not a long track but lots of steps and steep ascend to keep you challenged throughout, very rewarding with absolutely stunning views! You can do there and back or make it a loop if you come back via Whatipu Rd.

👍👍 There's a bit of forest bathing, a waterfall and of course the dam. Easy walk, 40 minutes (each side) at leisurely pace, what's not to like. Tip: Parking is about 700m closer (when coming from West coast to Piha) to what maps show. Look out for the parking at 200m sign.

👍👍 Lovely bush walk, and picnic areas. Go during totara berry season! Pick 'em straight off the trees, they're absolutely amazing.

👍👍 A great start to walking. Medium fitness required. Some steps and roughly a 20min walk. Around 2km. Lots of native birds, watch out for the falling seeds. Wood pigeon and Tui’s dog friendly. Suitable for a family. Kids under 5 should be closely supervised as there are some steep drops and no rails....

👍 It was my first time to try a track in West Auckland and it was really breathtaking — literally and figuratively, as the first hour was filled with stairs and a slightly steep walk. Quite manageable but best to start early when the sun is not shining hot and bright yet. Amazing views of the beach wo...

👍👍 A very pleasant walk somewhere which has changed so much.

👍👍 Little walk to the caves from Whatipu camping area car park. Its a bit slippery when wet and some portions needs gum boots when wet.

👍 Very beautiful walks but long as! We've repeatedly gotten lost on the tracks as there is very confusing signage and indistinct paths that turn out to be dead-ends (e.g Puketutu Island, access from Ambury Park, etc). Still worth giving it a shot if you plan your route carefully though. We have even b...