The day was very calm – the water was like a mirror, and there were also threatening grey clouds hanging overhead. The walking route is also great for cyclists, prams/buggies and dog walkers (on leash and off leash dog exercise areas).
![](https://ewzutrh9t34.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Wattle-Downs-Walkway-1.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1&fit=300%2C225)
Quick facts about this walk
Walk time: | approx. 1 hour 40 mins |
Distance: | about 8.7 kms |
Start: | Wattle Farm Reserve |
Track: | Mainly level paths, one set of steps (which can be avoided) |
Difficulty: | Suitable for users of average fitness and mobility. Suitable for cyclists. |
Buggies/Wheelchairs: | Suitable for cyclists, prams/buggies |
Dog Friendly: | on leash and off leash dog exercise areas |
Facilities: | Childrens playgrounds No cafe. Public Toilets may not be open due to vandalism issues (see image below). |
Highlights: | Manukau Heads, Manukau Harbour, Wattle Farm Wetland Reserve, shore birds |
FREE Map: | Download the FREE printable map with directions, of this walk |
![The Hobbiton Movie Set Day Tour - Ex Auckland](https://ewzutrh9t34.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Hobbiton-house-in-Matamata.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
The Hobbiton Movie Set Day Tour - From Auckland
There are many points of interest along the way, and friendly people to say hello to. We stopped and spoke to a resident whose house looked out towards Manukau Heads – he told us that they get to view amazing sunsets over the harbour.
There are wetlands and ponds active with shore birds – if you are a keen bird watcher be sure to take your binoculars.
The only thing missing in the area is a cafe.
The shared walkway/cycleway extends from Hadley Wood Drive to Aberdeen Crescent.
![Cyclist on the Wattle Downs Walkway](https://ewzutrh9t34.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Wattle-Downs-Walkway-2.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1)
Suitable for Family cycling: Frangipani Ave to Bluewater place, 10km each way.