Mt Roskill Walks

Mix and Match

You can combine bits of both routes for a longer walk. Some people incorporate the Oakley Creek walkway, or add nearby Keith Hay Park and Mt Roskill War Memorial Park. There’s heaps of flexibility depending on how much time you’ve got and your fitness level.

Quick Facts

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What Makes Mt Roskill Special

The Volcanic Landscape

Mt Roskill is a double cone volcanic mountain, though the original twin craters have been modified by a water reservoir installation. Even with these changes, the volcanic landscape is still obvious and the elevated position gives you those stunning views across Auckland.

Native Planting and Wildlife

The reserves around Mt Roskill have native plantings, seasonal flowers, and increasingly good birdlife as the habitat improves. Look out for tūī with their distinctive white throat tufts, fantails darting through the trees, and morerak birds. On weekends, bird-watchers often hang around the quieter sections.

Community Hub

This isn’t just a walk – it’s where the local community comes together. You’ll see families having picnics, kids playing, people walking dogs, cyclists cruising the paths, and joggers doing their thing. It’s got that friendly neighborhood vibe that makes it feel safe and welcoming.

The Views from the Top

If you do the summit climb, here’s what you’ll see:

• Volcanic Cones: Mt Eden (the big one), Mt Albert, Three Kings, and One Tree Hill – all part of Auckland’s volcanic field
• City Skyline: Auckland’s CBD with the Sky Tower dominating the skyline
• Harbours: Views across to Manukau Harbour on the west
• Islands: On clear days you can see islands in the Hauraki Gulf
• Suburbs: The sprawling suburbs of central Auckland spreading in every direction

The benches at the summit are perfect for catching your breath, having a snack, and soaking in the view. Take your time up there – you earned it with those 1,430 steps!

Track Surface and Conditions

• Mostly sealed paths: The main routes are sealed, making them comfortable for walking shoes or runners. You don’t need hiking boots for this one.
• Some grassy sections: A few parts go through grass, but nothing too rough.
• Summit climb: Steep but short. The path is good quality and well-maintained.
• Lower paths: Flat and suitable for wheelchairs and buggies if you avoid the steep summit section.
• All-weather: Because most paths are sealed, this walk is doable even after rain (though the grassy bits might be a bit soggy).

Who’s This Walk For?

Perfect for Families

The flat route is brilliant with young kids. There are places to pause, explore, and play. The adjacent parks have facilities, and the walk isn’t so long that little legs get tired. Older kids and teens will enjoy the summit challenge.

Dog Walkers

Dogs are allowed on leash on the main walking paths. Walmsley Park and Underwood Park have off-leash exercise areas, so your dog can have a proper run. Just keep them on leash near the summit where it gets busier.

Fitness Levels

• Flat route: All ages and abilities, including wheelchairs/buggies
• Summit route: You need reasonable fitness for the climb, but it’s achievable for most people. Families with younger children or older walkers will find the slopes manageable with a few pauses.

Solo or Groups

Works great for both. It’s safe and popular enough that you’ll see other people around, but not so busy it’s crowded (except maybe peak weekend mornings).

When to Go

Best Times:

• Early morning for fewer people and fresher air
• Late afternoon for sunset views from the summit
• Weekdays are quieter than weekends

Best Seasons:

• Spring (Sep-Nov): Wildflowers, perfect temps
• Summer (Dec-Feb): Long days but can be hot on the exposed summit
• Autumn (Mar-May): Beautiful light, comfortable temps
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Still doable, just cooler and might be wet

Avoid:

• Middle of hot summer days if doing the summit (no shade up there)
• After heavy rain if you want to avoid muddy patches

What to Bring

For the Flat Route

• Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen and hat
• Phone for photos

For the Summit Route

• Same as above, plus:
• A bit more water (you’ll work up a sweat on the climb)
• Snacks for the summit
• Light jacket if it’s windy (exposed at the top)

Optional

• Binoculars for bird-watching or checking out the view
• Picnic stuff if you want to eat at one of the reserves

After Your Walk

Coffee and Food

The Stoddard Road shops at Mt Roskill have cafes and eateries. The Coffee Club Stoddard Road is a reliable option. There used to be a great Ethiopian cafe in the Tulja Centre but sadly it’s closed now.

Explore the Neighborhood

The Mt Roskill shopping area has a really diverse mix of cultures and cuisines. If you’ve got time after your walk, wander around and check out the local shops and bakeries.

Adjacent Parks

If you want to keep exploring, Keith Hay Park and Mt Roskill War Memorial Park are nearby and worth a look.

More Central Auckland Walks I’ve Done

If you enjoyed Mt Roskill, here are some other central Auckland walks worth checking out:

• One Tree Hill Walk – Auckland’s most iconic volcanic cone with stunning 360° views
• Orakei Basin Walk & Loop Path – Easy loop around a tidal basin with birdlife
• Western Springs and Meola Reef – Parks, zoo, MOTAT, and coastal walking
• Auckland CBD Discovery Walk – Explore the city center on foot
• Westhaven Path Loop Walk – Marina and harbor views
• St Johns Bush – Native bush reserve in the suburbs
• Kepa Bush – Another lovely native bush walk
• Greenwoods Corner Walks – Suburban reserve walks
• Walks in Auckland from your Cruise Ship Dock – If you’re visiting by cruise ship
• University of Auckland Walks:
  • Epsom Campus
  • Grafton Campus
  • Tamaki Campus

Getting There

By Car:

• For summit route: Small car park at corner of Sandringham Road Extension and Stoddard Road
• For flat route: Street parking around Dominion Road near Mt Roskill shops
• Both areas have free street parking (check signs for any restrictions)

By Bus: Multiple bus routes serve Mt Roskill. Check Auckland Transport website for routes to Dominion Road or Stoddard Road.

From Central Auckland: About 15 minutes drive, or 20-30 minutes by bus

Safety and Tips

• The summit path can be steep – take your time and use the handrails where provided
• Stay on marked paths to protect the native plantings
• Bring enough water, especially for the summit climb
• Watch out for cyclists on shared paths
• Keep dogs on leash on main paths (off-leash areas clearly marked)
• Respect the cultural significance of this Tūpuna Maunga
• Take all rubbish with you

My Honest Take

Mt Roskill doesn’t get as much hype as One Tree Hill walk or Mt Eden walk, but that’s actually part of its charm. It’s more of a local spot, less touristy, and you get that authentic neighborhood feel.

The flat route is perfect for an easy morning stroll or if you’re introducing kids to walking. The summit route gives you a proper workout without being too brutal, and those views are honestly as good as any other Auckland volcano.

What I really like is how accessible it is. You can bring a wheelchair or pram on the lower paths, there are off-leash areas for dogs, and the whole thing feels safe and well-maintained. It’s clearly loved by the local community.

If you’re visiting Auckland and want to see a volcanic cone without the One Tree Hill crowds, or if you’re local and haven’t done this walk yet, definitely give it a go. It’s a good one.

Done this walk? I’d love to hear what you thought! Drop a comment below.