Walk Author: Sandra from Freewalks.nz
Sandra personally reviewed, documented, photographed and walked the Herald Island Path in Hobsonville on 26 June 2022.
Herald Island is a little known 100-acre island tucked in the Whenuapai Harbour, behind Hobsonville and Whenuapai.
It is connected to the mainland by a causeway surrounded by mangroves. The same day I did this walk I also drove 10 mins over to Hobsonville Point and did the full coastal walkway loop there.
Though it is a small island (with only 275 households), the island has a lot to offer. It has 6 reserves and even a museum and library in the middle of the island.
This walk takes you along the footpath, with peeps of the Waitemata Harbour here and there.
There are two playgrounds, as well as an ample choice of picnic locations—and remember to pack a picnic since the only dairy on the island closed recently!
About halfway around, you will reach Pahiki Reserve, which is the tip of the island. There is a wharf here that can be accessed by a short staircase. Take a moment to look at the boats.
Take your shoes off and walk along Christmas Beach. If you find yourself there at high tide, it is a beautiful spot for a swim.
The beach then reconnects with the footpath and continues along back to the start of the walk.
Quick Facts about this walk
- Location: Hobsonville, Auckland, North Island, New Zealand
- Time needed: 40 minute walk
- Distance: 2.7 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Bikes allowed: Yes
- Route: Loop
- Elevation: Mostly flat
- Wet Feet: The grassy areas are muddy after rain, but there are alternative footpaths if necessary.
- Toilets: There are 3 public toilets along the walk.
- Dogs: Yes
- Mobile Coverage: Excellent
- Last Updated: June, 2022
Summary points about this walk
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2 Responses
Your Maps Location does not provide a link to a map. This would be very helpful.
Regards Christine
Thanks so much for letting us know Christine. That’s a great idea and I’ve added the map link now.