We had set out to do a 5km walk but we ended up getting lost due to poor signage.

There was a good side to getting lost 1) we walked further than we had planned and 2) we found a look-out that we did not know existed which gave us a clear view all the way to the Auckland city skyline and across to Manukau Harbour.

walk path Botanic Gardens and Totara Park Loops

Quick facts about this walk

Walk time: approx. 75 minutes
Distance: about 6 kms
Start: Auckland Botanic Gardens Carpark
Track: A mix of level paths, steps and slightly inclined paths.
Difficulty: Suitable for users of average fitness and mobility. May require boots in wet weather, running shoes suitable in dry weather.
Highlights: Auckland Botanic Gardens, native bush and palms
Dog Friendly: off leash exercise area between north side of the Gardens and Totara Park.
Facilities: Cafe, Children's Playground
FREE Map: Download the FREE printable map with directions, of this walk
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The Puhinui Stream Forest Trail (the full loop trail is approx 4 kms) in Totara Park was gorgeous with the sunlight dappling the native ferns and palms. The trail took us past beautiful totara, puriri, nikau and kauri trees. We enjoyed soaking up the beauty of the lush native forest.

There are great spots to stop and picnic along the trail and children’s playground areas (including a children’s flying fox). Dogs on-leash on the trail, but there are off-leash areas. It makes for a great family day out. (And if you are into mountain biking or want to give it a try, there is a 15 km mountain bike track here too).

Download the FREE map of this walk here

Dogs – off leash exercise area between north side of the Gardens and Totara Park.

If you have children then we do recommend a visit to the Potter Children’s Garden (within the Botanic Gardens) – and as adults we enjoy visiting them too! The Auckland Botanical Gardens are magnificent and a wonderful place to visit all year round – the spring blossoms are stunning.

Miko Cafe at Auckland Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre provided us with much needed refreshments (we especially enjoy the Piazza D’Oro coffee).

Map location and how to find Botanic Gardens and Totara Park Loops

Photos from my walk along the Botanic Gardens and Totara Park Loops
Download the FREE map of this walk here

Comments on Botanic Gardens and Totara Park Loops

Mary Jo

The Auckland Botanic Gardens and Totara Park is amazing the place is so beautiful. Thanks for sharing this pic.

Helen

Glad you enjoyed this. There are a few more photos in my album on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.429956593698217.123274.194524263908119&type=3&l=cb49154da0

Best Blooms

I love the botanic Gardens all through the year – even in winter there are still pretty flowers in bloom . Such a lot of work by the gardeners there.

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