Top spots to cycle in and around the Waitākere Ranges
Top spots to cycle in and around the Waitākere Ranges
New Zealand is blessed with an extensive network of cycle trails, offering an unforgettable way to explore the country. From the 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides, to world-class mountain biking parks, to urban pathways – seeing the sights on two wheels opens up a wealth of spectacular scenery.
Auckland is no exception, with the city’s big backyard of the Waitākeres home to a mix of relaxing rides and advanced tracks to suit every skill level. Hire a mountain bike or e-bike and hit the trails, set amongst magnificent native forest, parks, and dams. Here’s a few of our favourites to get you started.
Beveridge Track
Park your four-wheels at Arataki Visitor Centre, the gateway to the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, and get ready for a two-wheeled adventure. This 3.5km track takes approximately 40 minutes as it meanders through stunning native bush, providing top-notch views across the Manukau Harbour and Lower Nihotupu Reservoir. You’ll also pass the Monkey Drive Tunnel, a symbol of Auckland’s original waterworks. Finish at the Exhibition Drive carpark, or continue on the next path to extend your ride.
Exhibition Drive Path
This compacted gravel track adds another scenic 6km to the Beveridge Path, or makes for superb cycling in itself. Initially formed as a tramway, the trail contains a pipeline that carries water from the Upper Nihotupu Dam to the filter station at Titirangi. Now, it’s a bush-lined pathway that offers picturesque valley views and an oasis of calm. The ride ends at the old Watercare Filter Station just outside of the quirky suburb of Titirangi – a perfect spot for a coffee and cake to complete the experience.
Opanuku Stream and Henderson Creek
At the edges of suburbia lies a well-formed, sealed cycleway that showcases the natural wonders of the area on a smooth and sheltered path. Lush native forest, peaceful picnic spots and some urban gems pave the way for a pleasant hour or so of cycling. Tune into nature’s soundtrack with the colourful birdsong of fantail, tūī and kingfisher as you ride alongside the stream. Take a break and check out Corban Estate Arts Centre for an arts and culture fix – the gallery and studios celebrate the local community’s creativity. Towards the end of the track is Henderson Valley Park, a fantastic playground if you’re visiting with kids, or to stretch your legs post-ride.
Cycling from Waitakere Resort & SpA
For those with moderate fitness levels, there’s a picturesque 8km route that takes you from the Resort to the Opanuku Stream cycleway. From our front gates, head down Opanuku Road, past spectacular Kauri trees and along Henderson Valley Road to the start of the cycleway. The ride does include a short gravel stretch for the first 2km, and a relatively gentle uphill climb back to the Resort.
A second option is to cycle the Cutty Grass track, which starts a short distance from the Resort entrance on Scenic Drive, through to Anawhata Road and to Anawhata beach itself. As you pedal, gaze across to sweeping views of Piha, Muriwai and the Kaipara. This ride is all on gravel tracks/roads, is approximately 25 kilometres long, and involves about 600 metres of elevation change.
Woodhill Mountain Bike Park
Weaving through the giant pine trees of the Woodhill Forest, this labyrinth of 60+ purpose-built mountain bike tracks rivals any other in the region – both beginners and pros will love the uphill, flat, and downhill delights. With fast-flowing single track with a sandy base, over 200 challenging structures, and an epic jumps park mean riders of all abilities can show off their pedal power. Rent a bike and helmet, then take your pick from one of the three suggested loops, or create your own adventure. With over 130km worth of trails, it’s a true mountain biker’s mecca. But a warning, this place can get addictive!
Whichever path you choose, you’re sure to find your perfect ride out West. The Waitākere Ranges are the jewel in Auckland’s crown, packed full of impressive lookout points – and plenty of photo opportunities to capture the day by. As you head back to your Waitakere Resort and Spa accommodation and relax after a few hours on the trails, you’ll have awesome memories to look back on – and likely be eager for more!