Auckland Global Trekkers

Escape the city for a wild west coast adventure on our Extended Southern Waiuku Forest Loop!
This epic tramp kicks off from Ghezzie Road, tracking the scenic curves of Ti Tree Bay Road before detouring to the dramatic Waikato River Conservation Area for morning tea. We will march deep into the heart of the Crown forestry estate, navigating towering pine corridors, rugged 4WD tracks, and plush pine-needle single tracks all the way to the edge of the peninsula.
Reward your efforts with a rugged beachfront picnic lunch perched on weathered driftwood logs facing the roaring Tasman Sea. The journey home loops back through the forest including a detour through the winding Clevedon Loop before we wrap up the afternoon with a well-earned drink on the historic waterfront deck of The Kentish Hotel.
It is the perfect blend of wild coastal landscapes, deep dune exploration, and classic Kiwi heritage!

Duration: About 5 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 16 - 18km.
Difficulty: 2.5 - 2.75 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.
Cost for Car Poolers: $20

Starting at Reddy Reserve, this diverse North Shore trek leads you through the tranquil, lush canopy of Eskdale Reserve, where peaceful bush tracks and native birdlife set a refreshing natural tone.
Leaving the rainforest trails behind, the journey transitions toward the coast, the route winds around the scenic perimeter of Lake Pupuke, a peaceful freshwater-filled volcanic crater surrounded by parklands.
Onwards to the golden shores of Milford Beach with sweeping views toward Rangitoto Island.
Along the coast line to reach the grand finale at Takapuna Beach, where broad ocean views welcome you to the finish line. Stepping into the Regatta Bar, you can settle in for well-earned refreshments, enjoying chilled drinks and delicious bites while soaking in the vibrant beachfront atmosphere—the ultimate blend of bush, lake, and coastal beauty.

Duration: About 3-4 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 10 - 12 km.
Difficulty: 2.5 to 2.75 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.
Cost: Bring your AT Card or credit card for the bus ride.

Join Auckland Global Trekkers this Sunday for a packed, picture-perfect day out exploring the highlights around Hamilton!

We’ll kick off our adventure wandering through the beautiful Taitua Arboretum. Established in 1973 by Dr. John and Mrs. Marion Fulton, this stunning 22-hectare haven was lovingly planted with thousands of trees to create a peaceful retreat before being generously gifted to the city in 1997. It’s an iconic piece of local history and a joy to walk through.
Next, we’ll stretch our legs along the easy, scenic Newstead Walkway, soaking up the tranquil wetland trails and towering eucalyptus groves.

Afterward, we’re heading over to the vibrant Taupiri Sunflower Farm to stroll among fields of bright yellow blooms, don't forget your camera for some fantastic photos!
To cap off a great day of exploring, we’ll stop in at the historic Rangiriri Hotel on our way home for hearty food, cold drinks, and great conversation.

Duration: About 4-5 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 12-14 km.
Difficulty: 2.5 - 2.75 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.
Cost for Car Poolers: $30

Leaving the city behind early in the morning, the group heads north toward Whangārei Heads to discover the scenic, lesser-known gem of the Motukiore Island Walk.
Timing is everything for this coastal adventure, as AGT trekkers coordinate their schedule around low tide to cross the exposed sandspit causeway into Parua Bay.

The trail meanders through shaded mangrove boardwalks and rocky foreshores along the calm edge of Whangārei Harbour. Once on the island, the group climbs the terraced earthworks of an ancient southern pā site—offering elevated, panoramic views across the water—before strolling past historic European homestead ruins on the northern shore.
After completing the 5 km coastal loop and soaking in the coastal air, the team packs up for the drive back south toward Auckland.

However, no AGT day trip through Northland is complete without an essential pitstop in Waipū at the legendary McLeod’s Pizza Barn & Brewery.
Stepping into the warm, tartan-draped tavern, trekkers recharge over award-winning craft beers brewed on-site and giant, handcrafted pizzas loaded with quality toppings.

Duration: About 3-4 hours hike including stops.
Distance: Approx 8 - 10 km.
Difficulty: 2.5 to 2.75 on our 1-5 scale for day hikes.