Due to the weather being unpredictable and grey clouds on the horizon, we decided to play it safe and headed to Ponsonby/Freemans Bay for a walk, knowing that we could always shelter under shop awnings if there was a downpour.

We were lucky – it stayed dry. This also meant that we could observe our surroundings – the beautiful old-style houses, the decorated ceilings, the sculptures, the shops and cafes and the trees in Western Park. It’s a changing landscape with always lots to see.

Quick facts about this walk

The Hobbiton Movie Set Day Tour - Ex Auckland

The Hobbiton Movie Set Day Tour - From Auckland

Walk time: approx. 40 minutes
Distance: about 4.5 kms
Start: Wellington Street, Freemans Bay.
Track: Mostly level paths, with some steep paths.
Difficulty: Suitable for most ages and levels of fitness and mobility, designed with flat shoes or running shoes in mind.
Buggies/Wheelchairs: Suitable for pushchairs.
FREE Map: Download your FREE map of this walk

This is a great short walk if you work in Ponsonby and need to get out for a leg stretch. Or if you want to visit on a Sunday, there is lots of street parking available. Or you if you live here and just want to explore.

You can start at any point on this circular route. And take a short diversion to Victoria Park Markets if that takes your fancy.

If you are into heritage homes, take a side trip down Renall Street to view pre-villa Victorian houses built for lower-income workers from the 1860s to 1880s.

Western Park is an off-leash dog exercise area with picnic tables to make the most of on fine days. There is also a fun playground with slides and flying fox.

Photos from my walk along the Sunday walk in Ponsonby

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