Maungauika/North Head Historic Walk

A series of loop tracks introduce you to the military history of Maungauika/North Head – the tunnels, guns, searchlights and defences that were placed on the headland to protect Auckland from feared Russian invasions. The Summit Loop takes you past our two movie theatres where you can watch some short films.

Track times and distance

Coastal Loop - one way, 1 km, 30 min

Summit Loop - one way, 1 km, 25 min

Tunnels Loop - one way, 1 km, 20 min

Getting there

Maungauika/North Head is located in Devonport at the northern headland of the Waitemata Harbour.

The reserve is approximately 16 km from downtown Auckland by car taking around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

You can also catch one of the regular ferries from downtown Auckland to Devonport Wharf. The reserve is 2 km from here. Follow King Edward Parade along the waterfront until you reach the end. Straight ahead is the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum. Turn left onto Cheltenham Road, then take the second road on your right - Takarunga Road. The gated entrance to the reserve is at the end of this road.

Vehicle and pedestrian access is via Takarunga Road.