Mount Eden Loop

Mount Eden is the highest volcano in Auckland, New Zealand. Mount Eden is also known as Maungawhau which is the Maori language name that means ‘mountain of the wahu tree’. This dormant volcano is 606 feet high. The Mount Eden loop takes you to the summit of the volcano and around the 150 foot deep crater formed by its last eruption. This trail is mostly paved. The unpaved portions are boardwalk. This loop is 1.3 miles long and gains 236 feet of elevation.

This loop begins on Puhi Huia Rd. Begin hiking east on a paved trail. You will be traveling gradually uphill. Continue hiking uphill amongst trees and enjoy intermittent views of the city of Auckland. After 0.7 miles, you will reach a junction and turn right. From here, you will be able to see the summit. Continue uphill for 0.1 miles to reach the summit. Along the way, there are a few benches where you can stop and rest while taking in the beautiful scenery.

From the summit of Mount Eden, you will have phenomenal views of the crater. You will also be able to see many of Auckland’s landmarks such as One Tree Hill, Eden Park, and the Sky Tower. Continue east along a boardwalk for 0.1 miles to reach Auckland Lookout. This observation platform serves as a great viewpoint of the crater and summit of Mount Eden. You also will see the Auckland skyline.

Continue on the boardwalk for 0.1 miles before reaching a paved path and going right. After another 0.1 miles, you will pass by a cafe and visitors center. Now it is just 0.1 miles more to complete the loop.

Mount Eden is open for hiking year-round from 7am to 8.30pm in summer, and 7am to 7pm in winter. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are allowed on this trail as long as they are on a leash. The Mount Eden Loop is a great hike that explores an Auckland landmark.