Last Updated on: 5 June 2025

Why walk the Stairway to Heaven in Clevedon Reserve?

I’ll never forget the first time I tackled the Stairway to Heaven. I’d just wolfed down a pie from Clevedon’s Sunday market, not realising I was about to face one of Auckland’s most vertical short walks. Let’s just say… gravity won.

But halfway up, lungs gasping and sweat stinging my eyes, I turned to look behind me and there it was — a panorama of emerald farmland, sky-slicing ridgelines, and the distant shimmer of the Hunua Ranges. Worth every wheezy step.

This walk is short but mighty. Locals know it as a quick leg-burner with a big payoff. You’ll climb over 200 wooden stairs straight up a steep hillside through regenerating native bush, all the way to a breathtaking lookout. It’s part workout, part wild escape, and part hidden gem.

“The Stairway to Heaven is perfect for people who want big rewards in a short timeframe. Just don’t underestimate the climb,” says Sandra, our resident walk specialist with a love for all things uphill.

🥾 Walk Overview

FactsDetails
LocationClevedon Scenic Reserve, Auckland
Nearest townClevedon, Auckland
DistanceApprox. 3.36 km return
Time required60-70 minutes return
Difficulty levelModerate (steep stairs)
Track typeOut-and-back
Dog-friendlyNo (Kauri dieback protection)
Kid-friendlyYes (if confident on stairs)
Wheelchair accessibleNo
Toilets nearbyNo (closest toilets at Clevedon Village)
Best time to goWeekday mornings or golden hour for views
Are drones allowedNo
Are bikes allowedNo

My Google map showing the track

Large kauri, Kahikatea, Puriri and Puka trees in Clevedon Reserve

🚗 Getting There

Car park location: Clevedon Scenic Reserve, Thorps Quarry Road, Clevedon.

Parking availability: Small gravel car park (room for ~12 cars). No shade. Free parking.

Public transport options: None directly to the reserve. Closest bus stops are in Clevedon Village (~3.5 km away).

Entry fees / permits required: None

Signage to the start of the walk: Clear DOC signage from the car park entrance

Me walking along the Clevedon Reserve Boardwalk in Clevedon Reserve

🌿 What You’ll See

  • Stunning panoramic views over Clevedon Valley
  • Mature and regenerating native bush including pūriri and nīkau
  • Tūī and kererū flapping about
  • A few sneaky photo-worthy spots just before the top
The Bridge leading to the start of the Stairway to Heaven in the Clevedon Reserve
The Bridge leading to the start of the Stairway to Heaven in the Clevedon Reserve

Walk directions:

  1. Start at the carpark at the end of Thorps Quarry Road, next to the Clevedon Scout Hall. There are toilets and a Kauri Dieback station here, so clean your shoes before heading in.
  2. Cross the bridge over the Tataia Stream. This scenic little stream flows into the Wairoa River and eventually out to the Hauraki Gulf.
  3. Follow the loop track anti-clockwise (straight ahead after the bridge). This direction gives you the best climbing experience, taking you up the beautifully built northern stairs.
  4. Climb steadily through native bush, taking time to admire unique tree specimens along the way — including impressive kauri. The stairs are well spaced, making the 30 to 40 minute ascent surprisingly manageable.
  5. At the top, enjoy the lookout with epic 360-degree views over Clevedon Valley, the Hunua Ranges, Hauraki Gulf, and even Auckland City on a clear day.
  6. Descend via the older section of track, winding downhill through more stunning bush. Watch for large kauri close to the track, and keep an eye out for tūī and kererū.
  7. At the base, take the short 5-minute side trip to the old quarry. It’s unexpectedly beautiful, with picnic tables and space to relax.
Panorama Views from the lookout in the Clevedon Reserve
Panorama Views from the lookout in the Clevedon Reserve

🍽 Nearby Facilities

  • Closest café or food option: Clevedon Café or The Farmhouse Deli in Clevedon Village
  • Picnic tables or sheltered spots: None on track, but grassy spots at the base are suitable for a sit-down
  • Playgrounds or family-friendly extras nearby: Clevedon Playground near the village centre
Old Thorps Quarry Sign in the Clevedon Reserve
Old Thorps Quarry Sign in the Clevedon Reserve

Insider Tips

  • Avoid weekends at midday, especially if the sun’s out, it can get surprisingly busy for a short track.
  • Bring a dry shirt to change into, you’ll earn a sweat badge on this one.
  • Combine this walk with the Clevedon Markets on Sundays for a perfect day out.
  • No toilets on-site means plan ahead, or duck into the village public toilets on Monument Road before you park.
  • The stairs are uneven in places, take your time and use the handrail if needed.

📍 Useful Links 

5 closest walks:

Here are some Google reviews from others who have walked this walk

Really loving with this little trek and the lookout up top is breathtaking, especially if you time it right to catch the sunset 😊. Alexander

Good climb with well maintained stairs and boardwalk. Lyle Lex

A nice place for doing exercise with stairs. It took me around 45 minutes to complete the track. The place is well maintained. You can see the sky tower when you reach the top. Dogs are welcome here. Easy parking.

990 odd stairs up, good exercise and great views at thr top, well maintained paths, kauri dieback area, dogs ok on leash. Zak Amadeus

Here's a great video by Cai and Dee on their walk around the Clevedon Reserve Stairway to Heaven walk.

👤 My Experience on This Walk

Date of walk: June 2025

Weather and track conditions: Warm, slightly humid, track dry and well maintained

What I personally loved: The “wow” moment at the top, like stepping into a drone shot

Any unexpected moments: I saw a kererū crash land mid-flight onto a branch like a drunken pigeon, 10/10 comedy.

Tips I’d give based on doing it myself:

  • Start early to beat the crowds.
  • Don’t rush the stairs, enjoy the bush.
  • Stretch those calves after!

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