The Blockhouse Bay markets are on every 2nd & last Sat of each month in the main street. At the street stalls, you can buy fresh fruit and veggies, fish, delicious breads, plants, sweets, dog food and more.
On Tuesdays, 10.00am-2.00pm the Blockhouse Bay Historical Society opens the doors of Armanasco House (on the Village Green next to the library).
Today I met Keith who explained to me that the old block house was a military building that was built so that it could withstand (or ‘block’) musket ball penetration. Several block houses were built in Auckland to protect the city from invasion during the Maori Wars.
The block house of Blockhouse Bay no longer exists, but the Society has a collection of photos and memorabilia, plus members have many fascinating stories.
Quick facts about this walk
| Walk time: | approx. 45 minutes |
| Start: | Blockhouse Bay Road |
| Track: | A mix of level paths and steep paths/steps |
| Difficulty: | Suitable for users of average fitness and mobility. May require boots in wet weather, running shoes suitable in dry weather. |
| Cautions: | Muddy and slippery when wet. |
| Dog Friendly: | There is off-leash exercise area |
| Highlights: | Native bush, Manukau Harbour views |
| FREE Map: | Download your FREE map of this walk |
The Hobbiton Movie Set Day Tour - From Auckland
This Blockhouse Bay circuit walk begins at the National Bank, and winds through the renamed Gittos Domain (it was called Avondale South Domain) to Flounder Bay.
It is an undulating short bush walk with steep paths and steps to test our fitness levels. There are many bench seats along the way. It is very peaceful with just the sound of birds. Many of the native trees have been sign-posted. At low-tide it is possible to walk along the edge of the Bays.
This is a dog friendly walk with an off-leash exercise area.
Suggested Cafes: The Block, The Bay Cafe and Icoco Cafe.
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