A short loop through wetland, native bush and farmland near the Vaughan Homestead. Takes about 30 minutes and suits most ages. Good for families, and worth doing before or after the coastal walk.
Quick Facts
| Distance | 800 m loop |
| Time | 30 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Start | Vaughan Homestead, end of Beach Road car park |
| Parking | Free, at the main Long Bay car park |
| Dogs | No |
| Pushchair-friendly | No, steps and uneven terrain |
| Toilets | At the car park |
| Cost | Free |
The Walk
Check the Auckland Council website to confirm the track is open before visiting.
Walk to the end of the car park, through the gate and onto the homestead. Cross the bridge and the nature trail leads off to the left. Follow the yellow marker posts. The loop takes you through wetland, native trees and farmland. There’s a short boardwalk section and some steps near the end before you come out near the Vaughan Homestead.
The trail passes through a stand of mature pūriri trees, some of the finest on the North Shore. They have a distinctive gnarled, twisted appearance caused by pūriri moth larvae, which feed on the trees for up to five years. The pūriri moth has a wingspan of up to 15 cm, one of New Zealand’s largest moths. There’s plenty of birdlife through this section too.
If the tide’s right and you fancy more time by the water after the loop, stand up paddleboarding is a relaxed way to explore the bay. 1 Hour Stand Up Paddleboard Hire: Auckland Sea Kayaks suits beginners and makes a nice follow on to this easy trail.
Vaughan Homestead
The 1863 homestead is open to the public and worth a look. It’s a 5 minute walk from the car park.
Other Walks at Long Bay
- Coastal Walk to Okura River — the main walk at Long Bay, 5.8 km one way along the clifftops to the Okura River
Once you’ve ticked off this short loop and fancy something more active, kids with energy to burn can try Indoor Climbing Challenge: Clip N Climb North Shore for a proper workout.
Other Walks Nearby
- North Shore Coastal Walk — follows the coastline south toward Devonport
- Scandrett Regional Park Walk — quiet coastal walk a short drive north
- All North Shore walks
