About us
Moa Outdoors + is a non-profit meetup hiking group dedicated to organizing safe, enjoyable, and scenic hiking adventures in and around Auckland and further afield. We warmly welcome hikers of all levels from around the globe, inviting you to experience the natural splendor of New Zealand with us. Beyond hiking, we offer ample opportunities for photography, socializing, and making new friends. We try to stop for a break or similar after the event - this is optional.
My name is Noel, I have recently taken over from David as the lead. David will stay on as Co Organiser and lead some hikes from time to time. We are lucky to have the support of Rob as Event Organiser. Together we would like Moa Outdoors+ to continue to provide opportunities for people to get Outdoors+. We are looking for another (Event Organiser) and team members to help out. Reach out if this is of interest.
In our fast-paced modern world, we believe every Aucklander deserves a sanctuary where they can be themselves, stay active, and enjoy nature with a great team, sharing laughter on weekends. Thus, I have taken on David’s group to continue the his idea of creating a year-round calendar of well planned hikes based on seasons, weather, preferences, and holidays. We understand that refining this system will take time, and we greatly appreciate and eagerly look forward to receiving any feedback or advice that will benefit everyone. Please don't hesitate to email us at [feedbacks.moasocialhikings@yahoo.com](mailto:feedbacks.moasocialhikings@yahoo.com).
Our hikes are primarily scheduled on Saturdays, though we occasionally organize excursions on Sundays and public holidays as well. As an active hiking group, we focus on easy, intermediate through to advanced hikes, with the occasional extra challenging hike during the summer months. We are working hard on broadening the menu to cater for a wide range tastes. Moa Outdoors+ prides itself on fostering a friendly and inclusive group culture. We encourage open communication, mutual care, cultural exchange, and empathy among our members.
You can contribute to events through positive actions. For example, bring with you;
- Feedback for Organisers/Hosts
- Ideas for future events
- A compliment for another attendee
- Helping other attendees in what they might perceive as a difficult situation
When you see this... + it means this event is a more difficult than normal. We also use a grading system and try to give as much info as we can about the event so you can decide if its suitable for you. If you're not sure, please message the host and they can share some more information with you.
We look forward to embarking on many adventures with you 😊.
Team Moa Outdoors+
DISCLAIMER+
Moa Outdoors+ Liability Disclaimer & Assumption of Risk
1. Voluntary Participation and Inherent Risk
By joining Moa Outdoors+ and RSVPing to our events, you acknowledge that hiking, tramping, and coastal trekking involve inherent risks. These include, but are not limited to, slippery terrain, steep climbs, unpredictable weather, and tidal hazards. You choose to participate voluntarily and at your own risk.
2. Organizer Status
Our Organizers, Co-Organizers, and Event Hosts are unpaid volunteers, not professional guides or first-aid experts. We facilitate the social aspect of the hike and provide a suggested route, but we do not assume legal responsibility for the safety or well-being of participants.
3. Personal Responsibility
Each member is responsible for:
Assessing their own fitness level against the Grade and Difficulty described in the event.
Ensuring they have the correct gear (footwear, 2L+ water, rain protection and suitable clothing for the season/environment).
Following the instructions of the Lead/Host for the safety of the group.
Managing their own medical conditions and carrying necessary personal medication.
4. Release of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, you agree to release and hold harmless the Organizers, Co-Organizers, and Event Hosts from any and all claims, liability, or causes of action for personal injury, death, or property damage arising out of or in connection with your participation in group activities.
5. Carpooling Disclaimer
Carpooling is a private arrangement between members. Moa Outdoors+ does not vet drivers, vehicles, or insurance statuses. If you choose to carpool, you do so at your own risk, and the group leaders are not responsible for any incidents occurring during transport.
In choosing to attend Moa Outdoors+ events, you are accepting the above.
6. Payment
Moa Outdoors+ events are not free. The group has costs such as Meetup subscription, safety equipment etc. We use the event fees to cover these costs. It is important that everyone that attends pays on the day. This can be done online using details in the event description or to the host/helpers pre start. In the unlikely event of a non payment, we will make contact to remind you. After that, you will be removed from the group. Regular hikers will get another chance to attend an event, 4 chances to pay before being removed from the group. Clearly this is the least desirable outcome for everyone so please take extra care to ensure you have paid either online or with your $5 note.
7. General
All attendees must have a Meetup profile (18 or over),
Sign up the the event,
No friends, pets, on trail music, smoking or vaping.
Featured event

Atiu Creek Regional Park
On Saturday we will walk Atiu Creek Regional Park. This park, alongside the other areas of the Okahukura Peninsula, have had a long history of occupation by Tamaki Maori. During the colonial era of New Zealand, the park was forested. Most of the trees were milled for timber, and after WWI, the land was subdivided into farm blocks.
The park was gifted to the Auckland Council by Pierre and Jackie Chatelanat in 2006, whose family had first acquired the land in 1951.
Read about it here;
https://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/rodney-times/103736692/philanthropists-legacy-lives-on-at-atiu-creek-regional-park
We are hopeful that at this time of year, we may see new life - its lambing season!
We will start walk from Oruawharo river trail clockwise, having lunch at the hill which has good view if the weather is good, then to visit the kauri point track before we get back to the carpark.
This loop poses no challenge to most hikers. There are no stream crossings.
THE DIRT -
• Time: Approx. 3.5-4 hours
• Distance: 10-11km loop
• Elevation gain: 339m
• Difficulty: not difficult. we will hike at moderate pace.
• Terrain:
• Grade: 2.75
Online topo map:
Atiu Creek Regional Park
Google satelite map:
Atiu Creek Regional Park
LOCATIONS
Hike start and finish
Atiu Creek Regional Park car parking
https://maps.app.goo.gl/NirNHary3AtdSmWg8
There is a toilet available nearby at the car park.
REFRESHMENTS - optional
Kaukapakapa Hotel, 3 North Crescent Kaukapakapa
https://maps.app.goo.gl/uJ469npci4eiR6YXA
SCHEDULE
6.56am sunrise
10.00am last time to arrive
10.10am introductions
10.15am Hike start
2.15pm Hike finish
3.00pm refreshments at Kaukapakapa Hotel - optional
4.00pm depart for Auckland
4.45pm arrive Auckland
5.52pm sunset
LOCAL INFORMATION
The cost for this hike is $5. Please pay online Moa Outdoors new bank details or pay the host cash on the day.
Noel K
BANK
If you have enjoyed previous Moa events, please feel free to invite others to attend via Meetup and also leave a review.
RSVP QUESTION
Have you read the description/disclaimer and are you confident you can complete the hikes in the time prescribed?
HOUSEKEEPING
CAR POOLING:
We suggest passengers pay drivers $20 return for this one.
Because Moa is a small and friendly group, it’s super easy to carpool with us. Our driver members are very happy to bring new people along. Post in the comment area below if you need a lift, include your area and a phone number. The willing driver member will contact you. As organisers, we will also monitor and help out. Please be organised and on time for collection, dont withdraw last minute. Please also don’t expect the driver to go out of their way to collect you. You might have to get to a nearby location on their route.
BRING:
- At least 2L drinking water.
- Lunch or snack food.
- Suitable footwear for surfaces described.
- Sun & rain protection.
- Bags for wet and dirty footwear & clothing.
- Appropriate clothing for the season and forecasted/possible conditions.
- First-aid items (at least for cuts and scratches).
PREPARATION:
It is important to be well prepared.
Before we meet
- Know how to get to all meeting places. We use Google Maps.
- Study hike details.
- Prepare everything you need to bring.
- If you are the driver, have car refueled or recharged ready to go.
- Find and confirm your driver(passengers) whether they go to the pub or going home directly after the event.
HEALTH & SAFETY:
Our hiking activities come with some hazard & risks; our organizers are volunteers. By RSVP'ing you accept full responsibilities for your own safety and that you have read the description and are you confident you can complete the hike in the time prescribed?
TURNAROUND
We don't intend to leave people behind. However, at any time on a hike if it is the opinion of the leader that you are struggling to keep with the group, the leader may decide that you are unlikely to be able to complete the hike in the time prescribed. In this case, you may be asked to turn around and make your way back to the car. This decision will not be taken lightly but will be done with the principle of the entire group enjoying their day and everyone completing in a timely and safe manner.
Looking forward to a great day outdoors.
Regards
Moa Outdoors
Upcoming events
18

Tāwharanui Regional Park
Takatu Road, Tāwharanui Peninsula, NZOn Saturday we are going to Tāwharanui Regional Park. Immerse yourself in the splendor of Auckland region's pristine white sand beaches, rolling pastures, and shingled bays. Traverse through native coastal forests and witness the resurgence of vibrant wetlands.
THE DIRT
Estimated distance: 13-15 km
Elevation: mostly flatish with a bit of climbing
Terrain: grass and mud track.
Grade 3.0LOCATIONS
Takatu car parkhttps://maps.app.goo.gl/R9kL19uLR1YTCWhB9?g_st=ic
There is a toilet here.
8 Wired Brewing
https://maps.app.goo.gl/9d2ATHcQz8veEajW6?g_st=ic
GOOGLE SATELITE MAP:
Google Satelite Map
Online topo map:
Topo mapSCHEDULE
9.50 - Latest time to arrive at the carpark and get ready.
9.55 - Introduction.
10:00 - start hike.
2.30 - Approx finish hike.
3.00 - 8 wired brewing (optional)
4.00 - return to Auckland.Refreshments
After our hike , we invite you to join us for our enjoyable socializing afternoon tea @ 8 wired brewing pub .The cost for this hike is $5. Please pay online Moa Outdoors new bank details or pay the host cash on the day.
Noel Keenan
12-3238-0727203-01If you have enjoyed previous Moa events, please feel free to invite others to attend via Meetup and leave a review.
RSVP question
Have you read the description/disclaimer and are you confident you can complete the hike in the time prescribed?HOUSEKEEPING
CAR POOLING:
We suggest passengers pay drivers $20 return for this one. This includes the toll charge.Because Moa is a small and friendly group, it’s super easy to carpool with us. Our driver members are very happy to bring new people along. Post in the comment area below if you need a lift, include your area and a phone number. The willing driver member will contact you. As organisers, we will also monitor and help out. Please be organised and on time for collection, dont withdraw last minute. Please also don’t expect the driver to go out of their way to collect you. You might have to get to a nearby location on their route.
BRING:
- At least 2L drinking water.
- Lunch or snack food.
- Suitable footwear for surfaces described.
+Sun & rain protection.
+Bags for wet and dirty footwear & clothing. - Appropriate clothing for the season and forecasted/possible conditions.
- First-aid items (at least for cuts and scratches).
PREPARATION:
It is important to be well prepared.
Before we meet- Know how to get to all meeting places.
- Study hike details.
- Prepare everything you need to bring.
- If you are the driver, have car refueled or recharged ready to go.
- Find and confirm your driver(passengers) whether they go to the pub or going home directly after the event.
HEALTH & SAFETY:
Our hiking activities come with some hazard & risks; our organizers are volunteers. By RSVP'ing you accept full responsibilities for your own safety and that you have read the description and are you confident you can complete the hike in the time prescribed?We walk as a group. If you are too slow, this holds up the whole group. After the first couple of kilometres, if you are not keeping up, we will ask you to return to the carpark and wait for the hike to conclude. If you have not walked with us before, can you walk up Mt Eden at a good pace, without the need to stop? If you are uncertain, message the organisers, and we can help you decide.
Looking forward to a great day outdoors.
Regards
Moa Outdoors
49 attendees
Past events
43





