Western Springs Lakeside Loop

Western Springs Lakeside Loop is a very popular and easy hike located at Western Springs Lakeside Park. This trail is paved and travels around a lake. This lollipop loop is 1 mile long and gains only 56 feet of elevation.

This hike starts from the Auckland Zoo parking lot off of Motions Road. Parking costs 2 NZD per hour with a maximum charge of 8 NZD. Begin hiking east from the corner of the parking lot. You will shortly come to a junction. Head right to take the loop counter clockwise. You will now be walking along the western shore of the lake. After you have hiked for 0.1 miles, you will encounter a junction and go left. 0.1 miles later you will reach another junction and go left again. Shortly after, there is one more junction where you will head left.

You will now have a wonderful view of the lake. From here on, you will have great opportunities to see a variety of birds. It is common to see Australasian Swamphens, Eurasian Coots, Black Swans, and various other species. Continue hiking along the southern shore of the lake. 0.3 miles into the hike, you will cross over a bridge. As you continue on the paved path, you will notice many benches, drinking fountains, and picnic tables. 

0.5 miles into the hike, you will be at the southeast corner of the lake. Continue along the shore. 0.7 miles into the hike, you will see restrooms just off the trail. 0.2 miles later, you will see a playground for children. Continue around the north shore of the lake and return to the parking lot.

Western Springs Lakeside Loop is open year-round. The only fees associated with this hike are for parking. Dogs are allowed in at Western Springs Lakeside Park, but they must be on a leash at all times. Do not feed any birds found in the park. Western Springs Lakeside Loop is an easy way to experience Auckland’s natural beauty and spot some beautiful birds.