The Orakei Basin walkway upgrade that began in 2010 is complete. The concrete has been poured onto a new pathway on the Macpherson Track. And it is fantastic! The bridge over the Orakei Creek is beautiful. Now Orakei and Meadowbank are connected by a boardwalk along the railway line that both pedestrians and cyclists can use.
There is a pathway from Orakei Railway station and under Orakei Road that leads directly onto the boardwalk that crosses Orakei Basin beside the railway line. It is now easier to catch the train to Orakei and walk around the basin, then return and stop at the Kings Plant Barn for refreshments at the cafe.
(* Teen friendly walk)
The morning was still, clear and sunny causing the reflections on the water to be almost perfect. This tidal lagoon is in a volcanic crater. It was high tide, which we were not expecting. This walk takes you through small patches of bush and up high onto the ridge for a view of the city skyline.
Description: A mix of level and steep paths, steep steps. Suitable for most ages and levels of fitness and mobility, designed with flat shoes or running shoes in mind. Not suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
This is a dog friendly walk with an off-leash area.(See other Dog Friendly Walks)
To see: Wonderful views of Mt Eden and Auckland City skyline. Small areas of bush. Railway track. Birdlife. Volcano crater.
Time: approx. 45 minutes (about 4 kms).
Parking: Near Kings Plant Barn, off Orakei Road near train station.
Buses: to Orakei Train Station
(Please note: no public toilets)
Suggested Cafés:Kings Garden Cafe does very good coffee (and lunches) as does Cafe Greenfingers at the Palmers Garden Centre
Stay on track…get your detailed guide and map over at our Walks Store (GS-017 Orakei Basin walkway) and our Book Store ( one of 12 walks featured in our book “Volcanoes”) or…you can download this free Orakei Basin walkway map from Auckland Council.
I have been making emquries along the way with the council when this walkway will be complete. I have only seen the boardwalk from the train. Can you please advise where it is located and streets or paths to follow / where it goes? Much appreciated.
Hi Briar,
Yes it is complete. You can cross Orakei Road opposite the Orakei Trains Station or start from Meadowbank train station.
Head across the boardwalk along the train track, follow the new path to the right alongside the Basin, across the creek bridge then up the steps, cross Lucerne Road to the steps on the opposite side, then follow the path to the left at the bottom of the steps. Keep to the track after rain as it gets very muddy underfoot.
I do have this walk mapped, documented and available for free with the free e-Guide.
Cheers,
Helen
Short walks in Auckland
I’m planning a trip with our local walking group. Would appreciate your help.
Hello Stephenie. Please let me know what kind of help you would like. Helen
Just wondering how long the Orakei Basin walk is?
Much appreciated.
Hi Melissa. The Orakei Basin walk takes about 40 to 45 minutes – it about 3kms. Have fun, Helen