The Blockhouse Bay Coastal Walk is a scenic loop trail in Auckland, New Zealand, combining beach and clifftop paths. The route offers panoramic views of the Manukau Harbour, passes through native coastal vegetation, and features historical significance from its namesake defensive blockhouse. It’s suitable for most fitness levels.
Quick Facts
Distance: Approximately 3 kilometres
Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on pace and stops
Difficulty: Easy with some moderate sections and steps
Track surface: Mix of paved footpaths, gravel tracks and coastal paths
Elevation gain: Minimal, around 30-40 metres
Starting point: Blockhouse Bay Road near the beach or village green
Facilities: Toilets, cafes, playground and parking at Blockhouse Bay village
Dog-friendly: Yes, with off-leash areas available
Best time: Year-round, particularly stunning at low tide
Views: Manukau Harbour, Waitakere Ranges and coastal cliffs
Last weekend I finally got around to doing the Blockhouse Bay coastal walk, and I’m kicking myself for not doing it sooner. I parked near the beach and started along the waterfront path – honestly, it’s such an easy stroll that I saw families with prams and older couples out enjoying it too.
The first part along the beach is pretty relaxed, with views across to the Waitakere Ranges. I stopped at one of the benches just to sit and watch a few kayakers paddling around. There’s something really peaceful about this spot, even though you’re still technically in suburban Auckland.
Once I started heading up toward the cliff section, things got a bit more interesting. It’s not a difficult climb by any means, but you definitely notice the incline. The volcanic rock formations along here are pretty cool – you can really see Auckland’s geological history written into the landscape.
The clifftop views are the highlight for sure. Looking back over the Manukau Harbour and out toward the heads, I could see why people rave about this walk. I even spotted a few sailboats in the distance. The path is well-maintained with proper railings where it gets close to the edge, which made me feel safe even though I’m not great with heights.
The whole loop took me about an hour at a leisurely pace with photo stops. It’s not going to challenge serious hikers, but that’s kind of the point – it’s just a lovely, accessible walk that lets you enjoy the coast without any drama.
Blockhouse Bay sits about 12 kilometres southwest of Auckland’s CBD, tucked between Lynfield and New Windsor. Getting there is straightforward whether you’re driving or using public transport. If you’re coming by car, head along Blockhouse Bay Road which runs directly to the waterfront. There’s decent street parking near the beach reserve and around the village green area, though it can get busy on weekends and during school holidays.
Public transport users have a few options. Several bus routes service Blockhouse Bay from the city and surrounding suburbs – the 195, 193 and 194 all stop near the village centre. From the bus stop it’s just a short walk down to the beach starting point. The nice thing about this loop is that you can basically start anywhere along it, but most people begin either at the beach end or near the Armanasco House on the village green.
I’d recommend starting at the beach if you want to ease into the walk with the flat section first, then tackle the clifftop bit when you’re warmed up. But if you prefer to get the uphill done early, start from Gittos Domain entrance near Donegal Street. There’s no wrong way really – it’s a loop so you’ll end up covering everything regardless.
Picnic table with sea view around blockhouse bay circuit
The Beach Section: Blockhouse Bay to Flounder Bay
The waterfront path between Blockhouse Bay and Flounder Bay is the gentlest part of the walk. It’s almost entirely flat and follows the harbour edge with constant water views. At high tide the water comes right up close to the path, while at low tide you get exposed mudflats where you’ll see pied stilts and oystercatchers fossicking around.
This section is hugely popular with locals walking dogs, and you’ll often see people stopped having a chat while their pooches sniff around. The off-leash dog area starts from the beach reserve, so if you’re not a dog person be aware there might be enthusiastic golden retrievers bounding over to say hello. That said, most owners are pretty good about keeping control of their pets.
The volcanic rock platforms along here are remnants of Auckland’s explosive past. About 30,000 years ago this whole area was peppered with erupting volcanoes. The dark basalt rock you see was once molten lava, which is pretty wild when you think about it. At low tide you can scramble out onto some of these platforms (carefully – they get slippery) and explore the rock pools. I found baby crabs, sea anemones and even a small octopus hiding under a rock ledge.
There are several bench seats positioned along the waterfront path, perfect for taking a breather and just absorbing the view. On a clear day you can see right across the Manukau Harbour to the Awhitu Peninsula. The Waitakere Ranges dominate the western skyline, and if you’re there around sunset the light on those hills is absolutely magic.
Gittos Domain: The Bush and Cliff Section
Once you’ve strolled along to Flounder Bay, the track heads inland and upward into Gittos Domain. This is where things get a bit more interesting terrain-wise. The path starts climbing through regenerating coastal bush, and you’ll notice the temperature drop a few degrees as you enter the canopy. Even on hot summer days it’s pleasantly cool in here.
The domain was formerly called Avondale South Domain but got renamed after the Gittos family who were early European settlers in the area. It’s not a huge reserve – maybe 15 hectares – but it packs in some lovely bush and excellent views. The tracks through here are well-formed but can get muddy after rain, so decent footwear is a good idea. I made the mistake of wearing jandals once and regretted it immediately when I hit the clay sections.
The native plantings include puriri, karaka, nikau palms and plenty of kawakawa. Keep an eye out for tui and kereru (wood pigeons) in the canopy, especially if you’re walking early morning or late afternoon. I’ve also spotted fantails flitting around the track, doing their characteristic tail-fanning display. The signage identifying various native trees is helpful if you’re trying to learn your pohutukawa from your puriri.
There are a few different track options through the domain, which can be a bit confusing if you’re new to the area. The main coastal loop is pretty obvious, but there are several smaller side tracks that branch off. Just keep the harbour on your left (if you’re going clockwise) and you won’t go far wrong. If in doubt, follow the most worn path – that’s usually the main route.
The Clifftop Views
The payoff for the modest climb through Gittos Domain is the clifftop section with expansive harbour views. This is genuinely one of the best coastal viewpoints in suburban Auckland that doesn’t require serious hiking effort. On a good day you can see from the Manukau Heads all the way around to Onehunga and the inner harbour.
The cliff here isn’t dramatically high – maybe 30-40 metres above the water – but it’s enough to give you that elevated coastal perspective. There are safety barriers along the exposed sections, which is reassuring if you’ve got kids with you or you’re not confident with heights. The path stays a safe distance from the edge most of the time anyway.
I like to time this walk for a couple of hours before sunset when the afternoon light is golden and the shadows start lengthening. The view west toward the Waitakeres is particularly stunning then, and you often get spectacular sunsets if there’s a bit of cloud around. Bring your camera or phone – you’ll definitely want to capture this bit.
Watch for kite surfers down in the harbour if there’s a decent breeze. The Manukau is a popular spot for wind sports, and it’s quite mesmerising watching these colourful kites zipping back and forth. You might also spot small boats heading in and out of the Manukau entrance, though you need to be here at the right tide – the harbour entrance is notoriously treacherous.
White old house at blockhouse bay circuit
Historical Context: The Blockhouse That Gave the Bay Its Name
The “blockhouse” that gave this bay its name no longer exists, but its history is fascinating. During the New Zealand Wars in the 1860s, several blockhouses were constructed around Auckland as defensive positions. These were fortified military buildings designed to withstand musket fire, with thick timber walls that could literally “block” projectiles – hence the name.
The Blockhouse Bay structure was built in 1860 on a prominent point overlooking the harbour. It was part of a network of defensive positions meant to protect Auckland from potential attacks. Soldiers would be stationed here keeping watch over the approaches to the city from the west. It must have been a pretty isolated posting – just you and a handful of other blokes staring at the harbour day after day.
The blockhouse was demolished in 1887 after serving its purpose, but the name stuck. If you’re interested in learning more about the local history, the Blockhouse Bay Historical Society opens Armanasco House (the old white house on the village green) on Tuesday mornings. They’ve got photographs and memorabilia from the area’s past, and the volunteers are usually happy to share stories about the old days.
Armanasco House itself is worth a quick look – it’s one of the few remaining historic buildings in the area. The villa dates back to the early 1900s and has been restored to something like its original condition. It sits on the village green next to the library, so it’s easy to pop in before or after your walk if you’re there on a Tuesday.
Seasonal Considerations and Weather
One of the great things about the Blockhouse Bay coastal walk is that it’s genuinely pleasant year-round. Each season offers something different. Summer obviously brings warm weather and long evenings, making it perfect for after-work walks or casual weekend strolls. The water sparkles, people are out swimming at the beach, and the whole place has a relaxed holiday vibe.
Autumn is arguably my favourite time for this walk. The light becomes softer and more golden, the temperatures are comfortable for walking without overheating, and there are usually fewer people around midweek. The native trees don’t do the dramatic colour changes you get with exotic species, but there’s still a subtle shift in the landscape tones.
Winter can be spectacular if you hit a clear, crisp day. The air is often clearer in winter, making the views across to the Waitakeres really sharp and defined. You’ll need a jacket for the breeze, particularly on the clifftop section, but the walking itself keeps you warm. Just watch for muddy sections in the bush – winter rain makes the clay paths pretty slick.
Spring brings new growth to the native plantings and increased bird activity as they start nesting. The weather can be a bit variable – you might get gorgeous sunny days or sudden rain showers – so checking the forecast is wise. The wind tends to pick up in spring too, which can make the clifftop section a bit blowy but also brings out the kite surfers.
Whatever time of year you walk, the Manukau Harbour tides make a significant difference to what you see. At low tide you get extensive mudflats and exposed rock platforms. At high tide the water comes right up to the path edges. Check the tide times before you go if you want to see specific things – low tide is better for rock pool exploring, high tide gives you that full-water view.
Facilities and Nearby Amenities
Blockhouse Bay village has everything you need before or after your walk. There are public toilets near the beach reserve – they’re reasonably clean and well-maintained as far as public loos go. The village green near Armanasco House also has toilet facilities.
For coffee and food, you’re spoiled for choice in the little shopping centre on Blockhouse Bay Road. The Block is a popular cafe doing good flat whites and cabinet food. The Bay Cafe does decent breakfasts and lunches. Icoco Cafe is another option if the others are full. After my walk I usually grab a coffee and sit on one of the benches near the green, watching village life happen around me.
There’s a playground near the beach that’s great if you’ve got kids who need to burn off energy after being cooped up in the car. It’s got the usual swings, slides and climbing frames, plus some decent shade from the mature trees around it. The grass area is good for ball games too.
The Blockhouse Bay Community Market runs twice a month (second and last Saturday) on the main street. If you time your walk to coincide with market day, you can pick up fresh fruit and veges, bread, local honey and other goodies. It’s got a nice neighbourhood vibe, very different from the big commercial markets.
Wildlife and Plant Life
The coastal environment around Blockhouse Bay supports a surprising variety of birds despite being so close to suburban development. The harbour’s mudflats at low tide attract wading birds including pied stilts, variable oystercatchers, godwits and occasionally royal spoonbills. If you’re into birdwatching, bring binoculars and stake out a bench seat overlooking the mudflats.
In the bush section through Gittos Domain, you’ll likely encounter tui, fantails, silvereyes and kereru. The tui are particularly vocal, especially during breeding season. Their song is one of those quintessential New Zealand sounds – a mix of melodic notes, clicks and wheezes. Kereru are easy to spot once you know what to look for – they’re big chubby pigeons that make a distinctive whooshing sound when they fly.
The regenerating native bush includes a good mix of coastal forest species. Karaka trees are common here – they’ve got big glossy leaves and produce orange berries that were an important food source for Māori (though they need extensive preparation to make them safe to eat). Nikau palms give the bush a subtropical feel, while kawakawa with its distinctive heart-shaped leaves is everywhere along the track edges.
Rock pools along the foreshore at low tide are miniature ecosystems worth exploring if you’ve got time. You’ll find little fish, crabs, sea anemones, limpets and maybe even a small octopus if you’re lucky. Just please don’t remove anything or disturb the creatures too much – look but don’t touch is a good rule.
If you finish the Blockhouse Bay loop and want more walking, there are several options nearby. The Lynfield Coastal Walk connects from the eastern end of Blockhouse Bay and continues along the harbour edge toward Hillsborough. It’s another easy coastal path with similar harbour views.
For something with more bush and native forest, the Blockhouse Bay to Tiriwa Walk heads inland through reserves connecting to Lynfield and beyond. This one’s a bit longer and has more elevation gain, but nothing too challenging.
The Titirangi to French Bay loop is further west but worth the drive if you want more substantial bush walking with spectacular coastal views. It’s definitely more challenging than Blockhouse Bay but absolutely beautiful.
Further around the harbour, the Cornwallis Beach Walk offers another easy coastal stroll with good harbour views and interesting historical sites including old military installations. The Awhitu Regional Park Walk on the opposite side of the Manukau Harbour entrance is more remote and wild if you’re after something more isolated.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Walk
Timing your walk around the tides adds an extra dimension. Check the Onehunga tide times (which apply to the inner Manukau) before you head out. Low tide exposes the rock platforms and mudflats, giving you a completely different perspective and allowing for rock pool exploration. High tide brings the water right up and creates a more dramatic seascape feel.
Footwear matters more than you might think for such an easy walk. The beach and clifftop sections are fine in sneakers or running shoes, but the bush tracks through Gittos Domain can get muddy and slippery, especially after rain or in winter. Proper walking shoes or light tramping boots give you better grip on the clay sections. I’ve seen people in jandals managing the walk, but they’re definitely slip-sliding around on the steeper bits.
Bring water even though it’s a short walk. There’s no drinking water available once you leave the village area, and on a hot summer day you’ll appreciate having a bottle with you. Sunscreen and a hat are also sensible – the coastal path has virtually no shade, and the New Zealand sun is harsh even when it doesn’t feel that hot.
If you’re walking with young kids, the whole loop might be too much for little legs. The beach section is pram-friendly and makes a good short outing on its own. The clifftop section has steps and uneven paths, so prams won’t work there. Kids who can walk confidently should be fine with the whole loop, though you might need to help them on the steeper steps.
Dog owners will appreciate the off-leash areas, but be aware that not everyone loves dogs. Keep your pet under control, especially around kids and other dogs. Carry bags to clean up after your dog – there are bins at the beach reserve and village green. And maybe give your dog a rinse after if they’ve been swimming in the harbour – that mudflat smell is fairly distinctive.
The Blockhouse Bay walk offers numerous photo opportunities, from sweeping harbour vistas to intimate native bush details. The clifftop viewpoint is the obvious money shot, especially with afternoon or evening light. Position yourself so you can capture the sweep of the harbour with the Waitakeres in the background.
The volcanic rock formations along the beach make interesting foreground elements. Get down low at the water’s edge and shoot across the rocks toward the horizon for a different perspective. The rock pools at low tide offer macro photography opportunities if you’re into close-up work – colourful sea anemones, tiny crabs and textured barnacles all make good subjects.
In the bush section, look up into the canopy for interesting light patterns filtering through the leaves. The nikau palms are particularly photogenic with their distinctive fronds creating geometric patterns. If you’re there early morning when the light is low and angled, you can get nice rim lighting on the leaves.
Sunset and golden hour are magic times for photography here. The western orientation means you’re shooting into the light as it drops toward the Waitakeres. On days with scattered clouds you can get spectacular colour in the sky. Just remember to adjust your exposure so you don’t blow out the highlights in the sky.
What to Watch Out For
The Blockhouse Bay walk is generally very safe and well-maintained, but there are a few things to be aware of. The clifftop section has drop-offs, though they’re protected by barriers in the exposed areas. Keep kids close and under control when you’re up high – excited children running ahead can be nerve-wracking for parents even with safety rails in place.
The steps through Gittos Domain can be slippery when wet. Take your time on the downhill sections, especially if it’s been raining. The clay soil turns into something resembling an ice rink when it’s wet, and I’ve seen a few people go down hard on their backside. Use the handrails where provided and watch your footing.
Watch the weather forecast before you go. The Manukau Harbour can get quite windy, especially in spring and summer, and the clifftop section is exposed. A breezy day makes for dramatic views and good photos, but if it’s properly blowing a gale it’s not much fun up there. Rain obviously makes the bush tracks muddy and slippery.
Be sun-smart. The waterfront path has almost no shade, and you’re getting reflected UV off the water as well as direct sun. Even on cloudy days you can burn. Slip, slop, slap as they say – shirt, sunscreen, hat. And sunglasses make the glare off the water more comfortable.
The off-leash dog area is great for dog owners but can be confronting if you’re nervous around dogs or have young children. Most dogs and their owners are friendly and well-behaved, but occasionally you’ll encounter an over-enthusiastic pooch who wants to say hello by jumping up. If dogs make you uncomfortable, just be aware this is a popular dog-walking spot.
Local Knowledge and Insider Tips
The locals who walk this track regularly will tell you that early morning is the best time, especially in summer. You miss the heat of the day, the light is beautiful, and you often have the track largely to yourself. By mid-morning on weekends it gets busier, particularly the beach section where families congregate.
There’s a shortcut through the bush that some locals use to avoid retracing the beach section if they’ve parked at the village end. It’s not signposted but if you keep your eyes open you’ll spot the side track near Flounder Bay that cuts back up to the residential streets. This turns the walk into more of a there-and-back rather than a true loop, but it saves a bit of time if you’re in a hurry.
The community knows about a small waterfall in Gittos Domain that only flows after heavy rain. It’s not huge – more of a trickle than a cascade – but it’s a nice little feature if you happen to catch it. You’ll hear it before you see it, a bit off the main track on the Donegal Street side of the reserve.
For the best fish and chips in the area after your walk, locals rate the Blockhouse Bay Seafoods on Blockhouse Bay Road. Nothing fancy, just good traditional fish and chips that you can take down to the beach and eat while watching the sunset. That’s a pretty perfect end to an afternoon walk if you ask me.
Accessibility Considerations
The beach section of the walk from Blockhouse Bay village to Flounder Bay is largely accessible for people using mobility aids. The path is paved or well-compacted gravel, reasonably level, and wide enough for wheelchairs or mobility scooters. There are several bench seats along this section if you need to rest.
However, the clifftop section through Gittos Domain is not wheelchair accessible. There are steps, uneven paths, steep sections and narrow tracks that make it unsuitable for wheels. People with limited mobility or those using walking aids might manage parts of it, but it would be challenging and potentially risky.
If you’re after an accessible coastal walk in this area, stick to the beach section only. You’ll still get lovely harbour views, plenty of fresh air, and a good taste of what makes this area special. The return walk along the beach from the village to Flounder Bay and back is about 2 kilometres and completely manageable.
There are accessible toilets at both the beach reserve and the village green. The cafes in the village shopping centre all have level access, and there’s designated disabled parking near the beach.
Bonus Tips
Bring a small towel if you’re walking in summer. The beach is swimmable at high tide, and there’s nothing better than a quick dip after your walk before heading home. The water’s not as clear as Auckland’s east coast beaches, but it’s refreshing and perfectly safe for swimming.
Download the tide times to your phone using one of the many marine apps available. Knowing when low tide is due helps you plan if you want to explore rock pools or walk out on the platforms. It also alerts you to king tides which can make some sections of the beach path impassable.
The benches positioned along the clifftop are perfectly placed for sunset viewing. If you time your walk to finish right on dusk, grab a seat and watch the sky change colour. It’s one of those simple pleasures that costs nothing but creates a memory.
Local schools sometimes bring groups here for outdoor education, so if you prefer a quieter experience, avoid school hours during term time. After 3pm or during school holidays tends to be busier with families, while mid-morning midweek is often the quietest.
Keep an eye out for the pōhutukawa trees along the clifftop. They’re not in great numbers here like on some coastal walks, but when they bloom in summer with their crimson flowers, they’re spectacular. They’re often called the New Zealand Christmas tree because they flower around December.
Common Questions and FAQ
How long does the Blockhouse Bay coastal walk take?
Most people complete the full loop in 45 minutes to an hour at a casual pace. If you stop for photos, explore rock pools, or take a coffee break, allow up to 90 minutes. Walkers with young children or those wanting a very leisurely experience should allow closer to two hours.
Is the walk suitable for young children?
Yes, the walk is family-friendly overall. The beach section is easy for kids of all ages and even pram-friendly. The clifftop section through Gittos Domain has steps and some steep bits, so younger children need to be capable walkers and supervised carefully near cliff edges. Most kids from about five or six upwards manage the whole loop comfortably.
Where exactly do I park for this walk?
The best parking is on Blockhouse Bay Road near the beach reserve, or around the village green area near Armanasco House. There’s free street parking along most of Blockhouse Bay Road and surrounding streets. It can get busy on weekend mornings, so arriving early or midweek gives you more options.
Can I swim at Blockhouse Bay beach?
Yes, you can swim at Blockhouse Bay beach, particularly at high tide when there’s more water. The water quality is generally good, though not as pristine as beaches on Auckland’s east coast. Check the Safeswim website before swimming to ensure there are no water quality warnings. The beach is sheltered and safe for kids, though always supervise children near water.
Are dogs allowed on the walk?
Yes, dogs are welcome and there’s an off-leash exercise area along the beach section. Dogs must be under control at all times, and you need to clean up after them. The bush section through Gittos Domain allows dogs but keep them on-leash there as the tracks are narrow and you’ll encounter other walkers.
What’s the best time of day to do this walk?
Early morning offers cooler temperatures, beautiful light, and fewer people. Late afternoon into evening is popular for the sunset views from the clifftop. Avoid midday in summer when the exposed beach path offers no shade and can get uncomfortably hot.
Is the track well-marked and easy to follow?
The beach section is straightforward – just follow the waterfront path. The bush section through Gittos Domain can be slightly confusing as there are several tracks, but if you keep the harbour on your left (walking clockwise from the beach) you’ll stay on the main loop. The most worn paths are generally the right way to go.
What should I bring?
At minimum bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Decent walking shoes are recommended, especially if it’s been raining recently. A camera or phone for photos is a good idea given the views. In summer you might want swimmers and a towel. A light rain jacket is sensible if the weather looks uncertain.
Can I do this walk in winter?
Absolutely. The walk is pleasant year-round, and winter often brings clear days with excellent visibility across the harbour. You’ll need warmer clothing, especially for the wind on the clifftop, and be prepared for muddy conditions on the bush tracks after rain. But on a crisp winter’s day, this walk is beautiful.
Are there toilet facilities?
Yes, public toilets are available at the beach reserve and near the village green. There are no toilets along the track itself, so use the facilities before you start walking. The cafes in the village will also let customers use their toilets.
How does this walk compare to other Auckland coastal walks?
It’s shorter and easier than walks like the Hillary Trail or Rangitoto Island, but offers similar harbour views with much less effort. It’s comparable in difficulty to the Devonport waterfront walk or parts of the Tamaki Drive coastal path. The combination of beach, bush and clifftop views in such a short distance makes it particularly appealing.
Is there mobile phone coverage on the walk?
Yes, mobile coverage is generally good throughout the walk. You’re in suburban Auckland so all major networks have coverage. This makes it a safe choice if you’re walking alone and want the reassurance of being able to call for help if needed.
What’s the historical significance of Blockhouse Bay?
The bay is named after a defensive blockhouse built here during the New Zealand Wars in the 1860s. These fortified structures were designed to protect Auckland from attack. The original blockhouse was demolished in 1887, but the name remained. You can learn more about local history at Armanasco House which the Historical Society opens on Tuesday mornings.
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I’m a local who gets lost on Gittos Reserve tracks despite it being such a small reserve. Today, despite trying to follow your instructions, I came out at a different exit!
I’d also just bought new walking shoes so now I’m gripping not slipping on the downhill paths. I found I focused on my feet not the views. I’d enjoy the Gittos Track more walking with others then chatting over coffee in Blockhouse Bay.
One Response
Kia ora Sandra
I’m a local who gets lost on Gittos Reserve tracks despite it being such a small reserve. Today, despite trying to follow your instructions, I came out at a different exit!
I’d also just bought new walking shoes so now I’m gripping not slipping on the downhill paths. I found I focused on my feet not the views. I’d enjoy the Gittos Track more walking with others then chatting over coffee in Blockhouse Bay.
Thanks for your series of walks Sandra.
Nga mihi nui
Prue