The Pūweto Loop is the ‘big one’ at Waitawa Regional Park. It’s a scenic, moderate 9km trek that circles almost the entire park, offering some of the best panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf you’ll find in East Auckland. You’ll head through native bush and old farmland, passing historic pā sites and quiet bays along the way. It’s a solid 2.5 to 3-hour walk, so bring water and decent shoes
By Car: If you are driving from Central Auckland, here is how you get there:
Public Transport: Public transport options are limited to this area. The nearest bus service runs to Clevedon village, approximately 8 kilometres away. Best to take your car.
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The Pūweto Loop is one of those understated gems that ends up winning you over with its sheer variety. Just a heads up: it’s a long walk with plenty of hill climbs, so it’s more of a workout than a stroll. The track is generally well-maintained, but those clay sections get seriously greasy after rain, good grip on your shoes isn’t just a suggestion, it’s a must.
You’ll move between open grazing land and pockets of regenerating forest. The bush sections offer some nice shade, and you’ll definitely hear the tūī and fantails, but bring a hat, the majority of this loop is out in the open.
The coastal stretch is the absolute showpiece. On a clear day, the views across to Rangitoto and the Coromandel are world-class. Keep an eye out for the weathered pōhutukawa along the cliffs; they’re perfectly positioned for photos of the gulf.
Here’s what the official notes won’t tell you: the afternoon light is the real winner here. If you time your return leg for the late afternoon, the sun hits the Hauraki Gulf at an angle that makes the water glow—it’s peak photography time for Rangitoto.
Watch your footing! The track is deceptively slippery in winter or after a typical Auckland downpour. Those clay sections turn into total skating rinks, especially on the slopes. Decent grip on your footwear isn’t just a suggestion; it’s essential if you want to avoid a muddy “graceful shuffle.”
A big one for dog owners: We love bringing our pups, but remember they are strictly prohibited on the tracks from July to December for lambing season. Outside of those months, keep them leashed—the park is a sanctuary for ground-nesting birds like dotterels, and we want to keep it that way.
The area is significant because, hundreds of years ago, the clifftops were used as fortified villages. When you are on the high points of the walk, look for flat “steps” carved into the hills, those aren’t natural; they were built by the people living there for houses and defense.
Later, the land was used for farming and industrial storage (explosives) before becoming a public park in 2014. That’s why you see a mix of wide-open grass paddocks and patches of forest.
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Autumn and spring offer ideal conditions with mild temperatures and generally stable weather. Summer can get hot on the exposed coastal sections with limited shade, while winter brings mud and slippery conditions but also dramatic moody skies over the gulf.
The pōhutukawa bloom around December which transforms the coastal section into a riot of red flowers. It’s spectacular but also the busiest time for visitors. If you prefer solitude, stick to weekday mornings outside of school holidays.
The “moderate” grading is accurate for most people but be aware that sections involve short climbs that might challenge young children or those with limited mobility. The track isn’t suitable for wheelchairs or prams due to uneven surfaces and steps in places.
That coastal breeze I mentioned earlier can turn into a proper wind on exposed sections. If you’re walking in winter, bring an extra layer because the temperature drop is noticeable when you leave the shelter of the bush.
The track gets muddy. Seriously muddy. After heavy rain, some sections become difficult to navigate without getting your boots caked. This isn’t a deal-breaker but it’s worth checking recent weather before committing to your pristine white sneakers.
Reception is patchy throughout the walk. You’ll likely have signal at the car park and some elevated sections, but expect to lose it completely in the bush areas. Don’t rely on your phone for navigation.
The coastline is rocky and shell-covered, so it’s not a typical swimming beach. Mātaitai Bay (at the bottom of the park) is popular for kayaking and fishing from the wharf, but if you’re looking for a dip, stick to the rock pools at low tide.
No facilities exist within Waitawa Regional Park beyond toilets and picnic tables. The nearest shops and cafes are in Clevedon village, about 10 minutes drive away. Bring your own food and water.
Weekday mornings are quiet with just a handful of local dog walkers. Sunny weekend afternoons can see dozens of visitors, though it never feels overcrowded due to the loop nature spreading people out.
Yes, many locals use it for trail running. The loop distance and moderate terrain make it perfect for a quick run. Just watch your footing on the technical sections and be courteous to walkers.
The Pūweto Loop is the “big one”, it’s the longest track in the park and takes you around the entire perimeter. If you’re looking for something shorter, the Kererū Loop or Pīwakawaka Loop are much easier, 45-minute walks through the forest. Pūweto is best if you want the full experience and the most variety.
