Takarunga / Mount Victoria is a stunning park with panoramic views of the city skyline and harbor. Although it used to be accessible by vehicle, visitors now have to take a short 5-10 minute walk to reach the summit. The park offers a peaceful spot for walking, picnicking, or admiring the stone map showcasing nearby locations. Photographers can also capture stunning shots of red mushrooms in the area.
Very special location with incredible views overlooking harbour.
Love this spot! Note - No vehicle access from 2/3 way up. But a nice 5-10 min walk to the summit.
Cynthia Peat — Google review
I randomly was walking around Devonport and found my way up to Mount Victoria. Short walk and slightly steep going up but worth the 360 degree views. You can explore the old fort here and run down the hill.
Sunni Wan — Google review
One of the many volcanoes in and around Auckland. Takarunga was once a pa (a fort) some time ago. Most importantly, it's hosts some pretty good views of the city
Spalton221 — Google review
Visiting from out of town acting as a tour guide for the family. Always a great spot, although I remember the days you could drive to the top. A fair number of walkers dodged the showers and were rewarded with dramatic skyline views as the sun punched though and lit up the villas, shops, and vessels below. Very peaceful spot for a walk, a picnic, or showing visitors the best view of the CBD.
Pete Belt — Google review
It is about 30 minutes walk from Devonport ferry terminal. You can see beautiful 360 panorama view, and also Auckland downtown, Sky Tower. It was very clear sunny autumn day, we weren't tired to see around more than hours. Maybe you had better to have something drink.
Shin — Google review
Great place to go for some fantastic views of the Auckland harbour and city. The walk is bit difficult on a hot day but the views at the end are worth the effort. You can explore the battery installed at the summit.
V Sure — Google review
Fantastic view!!! For the maps lovers there is a stone map very cool to see the closest locations to mount Victoria. Take some photos on the red mushrooms.
MARIA FERNANDA Lancheros — Google review
Short walk good for families. on top with 360 degrees view of CBD. Scenic view. Few parking available onsite.
Aside from walking in Mt Victoria you could also go for a walk in Devonport wharf which is really nice. Playground available for kids and have some picnic. Huge free Parking beside the playground but beside the wharf you have to pay.
Jeddah B — Google review
Beautiful place. It was windy but not cold and we had excellent day up there. Views are amazing.
Over Voyager — Google review
Great views and it's very easy to get to from downtown auckland. The ferry trip is just about 10 minutes, followed by about 15 minutes walking.
Tim Taylor — Google review
Great walk, sweat, fresh air and views. A whole 360 view, stunning scenery. My kids call it Toads Mountain 🍄🍄🍄.
B Sila — Google review
This is the highest volcano on the North Shore. Very beautiful place with wonderful scenery. It's great for picnic lovers. Take a ferry from downtown and get here in 10 minutes.
KOUROSH SH — Google review
Very nice view for a Quick walk. Fully Experience the blow of Auckland's wind here
Ben Joseph Evangelista — Google review
Greta place for a short hike to an awesome viewing location of both Auckland city on one side and the ocean and Rangitoto on the other. Take a picnic basket, blanket and some tunes and you could spend hours up here easy!
Manaaks Pivac — Google review
Great outlook over the city and all around the greater auckland area. Is a short hike from town and a lovely place to get some perspective. Read a book etc.
Andrew Sinclair — Google review
It is a beautiful panoramic view of Auckland in the distance, the harbour and the surrounding areas; the islands and the Pacific Ocean. It should be a relaxing walk up or drive however in our case we took the Segway Tour from Magic Broomstick. At the peak you can view the old disappearing gun as well.
Patrick Zuluaga — Google review
This is the best area to overlook Auckland and surroundings. Affluent area is nearby and great to explore
Dmitry Lvov — Google review
Beautiful view point. Cover almost 360 degrees of north Auckland. Nice to be there.
The Browns Bay Beach Reserve lies adjacent to the beach and is perfect for walks and swimming. There is also a playground for children, grassy areas, a boat ramp, and restaurants nearby.
A town centre by the beach, Browns Bay is always busy, especially during the summer. Still water sandy beach with large grass area, Browns Bay is a hot spot for the locals. The Main Street is like a shopping centre with local businesses. There are a few eateries with specialty stores. The reserve has a playground and skate park. The parking is one hour.
K K — Google review
One of my favourite beaches in the north shore area. It’s small and sometimes you may struggle to find carpark, but the vibe is very family friendly and there is bbq, shade, public toilet, shower and heaps of nice places around to eat. Bring your picnic blanket and spend the day!
Debora SC — Google review
Amazing place for a walk or just relaxing. There are a few bench’s, a kids playground and toilets on the Reverse, and plenty of restaurants around. Parking can be a bit of issue depending on the day and time.
Yuri C. — Google review
Browns Bay Beach Reserve is a delightful coastal gem nestled in Auckland's North Shore. With its golden sands, gentle waves, and picturesque surroundings, it's an idyllic spot for beachgoers and families. The reserve offers ample space for picnics, sunbathing, and leisurely strolls along the waterfront. Children can enjoy playgrounds and rock pools, while water sports enthusiasts can partake in activities like swimming and paddleboarding. Cafes and restaurants nearby provide opportunities for refreshments and dining with ocean views. Whether you're seeking relaxation, recreation, or simply a scenic escape, Browns Bay Beach Reserve offers a charming seaside retreat for locals and visitors alike.
ajleeblog — Google review
Great playgrounds & skate park for children.
Good swimming.
We had a wonderful day. Picnic lunch under the trees. Lots of room for everyone to safely distance. Walking along beach I found several beautiful shells. Jazz our dog enjoyed seeing other dogs and running off the lead. Celebrated 34yrs married in a special way.
💕🌹💕
Christina Mitchell — Google review
Great place for a walk. Lots of dogs also. Beautiful views of Rangitoto island
Sue Nielsen — Google review
Fantastic Beach, Family friendly play ground available shops and bakery,s near by.
You can sit up on the grass looking over the water or head down to the sand .
Darth Dredd — Google review
Browns Bay Beach Reserve is my husband’s favourite beach in Auckland. We both visited there for the first time on 3/2/2024.
The beach is very tranquil and peaceful. As there were not many people at the beach, we pretty much enjoyed our time and had a relaxing stroll along the beach.
We highly recommended you to drive there and enjoy your lovely day if you happen to drive to the North Shore.
Addie Lane — Google review
Nice big skatepark was able to drive the ute onto the beach to launch the jet ski the kids had a great time at the jungle gym I'm on the swings and there was even a really cool bar and restaurants across the road great place for fishing off the point on the flat rock
Rou Haarhoff — Google review
The kids always have a blast when we are here. There's a lovely playground for the kids, and the beach is also just there! We have lovely BBQ's there as there is a lovely grass area to setup for the day. The bathroom facilities close by as well.
Elske Van Der Sandt — Google review
This is our local beach and visit regularly. It has a relaxed vibe and plenty of space even when busy. Great for families and singles for all ages. Fantastic playground for 2 - 15 year olds, and skateboard/scooter/bike bowl for all ages as well. Bars and restaurants look onto the reserve and the beach area and are always lively. Parking is ok, I normally manage to find one close but sometimes need to walk 5 mins to the beach.
Vaun Harper — Google review
Great beach with many places nearby to grab food and drink. Plus a really nice playground for the littles!
Tony Kozina — Google review
The beach is close to the town which means you can park the car and enjoy shopping.
I love the location where you can walk to grab a coffee and sit on the bench while looking at the beautiful beach.
There are restaurants and bars close to and if you want to do shopping. It is just a minutes away !
Sita Karawakul — Google review
Really nice bay . Lease and unleash dogs allowed specially . Moreover, kids play area separately provided.
Really good atmosphere.
patel mohit — Google review
Excellent retreat fab little island in the sun great beach and a restaurant to superb catamaran took us out there
Nick Ward — Google review
Lovely and beautiful place, with a lot restaurants ,shops around the beach and two supermarket very nice. People happy , play the music,sing and dancing in the street. Amazing view.
Izabel C B Victoria — Google review
Very nice...dogs were all well behaved..all off leashes and happy. My only concern is the public bins were overflowing..need regular check to be emptied
Margaret Howard — Google review
Lovely beach walk early morning, stacks of dogs and friendly people 🩷 Then on to The Stoned Cow for beautiful coffee and breakfast (and awesome boerie)!
The Takapuna Sunday Market is a popular market in Auckland that sells a variety of goods, including food. It is open from 6am to noon every Sunday and has a car park that is overflowing with produce and little gems created by the people of the neighbourhood.
Decent market now the square is completed and you can walk around easily between the streets and stalls. Good food options
Clare Milford — Google review
very few kiosks to explore and buy products, produce from - possibly due to the ongoing construction, renovation at the site. extremely limited live food options for vegans, vegetarians. a lot of scope to improve overall customer experience.
Gautam Sharma — Google review
Great to return to the Takapuna Markets & to reconnect with the usual players I have got to know over the years. Such a shame they have to pack up at 12pm to avoid penalties from the Council. There is no logic esp when businesses at the market & in Takapuna CBD are simply trying to survive....much more important than the market area having to be vacated for parking revenue. If only the Council saw the logic in the market going for longer during the day because what a great community vibe in these chaotic global times❣
Sacha Beacham — Google review
Love this place ! So much variety and different stuff. On a really good location.
They have
Fresh produce
Flowers and plants
Food stalls
Baking stalls
Second hand stuff
Clothes and hand made stuff
Jewel and etc
sepideh Delavari — Google review
Good place for a Sunday walk with family or friends. Variety of stalls from antique, food stalls, veges, clothings, fashions accessories n many more. Bring cash or card. The vendors do bank transfer too.
Caryna Chan — Google review
Amazing ... a must visit on sunday. The way people mingle and have fun is inspiring and so much so you just don't feel like leaving. We circled this market 3 times that day and at every attempt spotted something new and interesting. Wonderful live solo music adorned the grounds, complemented by puppetiers performing and displaying their unique talents, makes you want to stay even longer. Fresh produce actually defines the word " fresh" and "organic" . I'm sure every visitor will catch something of interest. Happy visiting guys !
Nilanke Perera — Google review
Such a variety of stalls. Family friendly and heaps of doggos! Such a warm and welcome environment. Great outing 👍
Alexshana Sivarajah — Google review
It has different varieties from antique, clothing, furnishing, jewelry, small bites, fruits, cakes, breads, sandwiches, food, and a few vegetables stalls. Not for vegetables shopping as not many options
The HY — Google review
Love the place and food from there , plenty of cheap and fresh vegetables and goodies
Felicia Arrunnapaporn — Google review
Visited the Sunday Market and it was so cool! So many stalls and a variety of food to be tried.
Jasmine Braggs — Google review
Fruit markets are neat. Foods nice as well. Bacon and egg sandwiches are always mean. Good for an activity to do with a few people.
Angus Dines — Google review
The market is near the beach. There are lots of variety of food stalls. We picked the hot beef pho which came with a big portion of meat and a Chinese tofu noodle.
KT LEE — Google review
There's china food is really awesome.
If you go there you must eat the pan cake beef and sticky rice.
I don't have pictures cause It was so delicious, I already eat at all before thinking about taking picture before eat.
Eunbyul Cho — Google review
Love the Sunday market. The food was good and okay price. Love some vendors accepted cards while some cash only. When coming here make sure to bring both (card/cash) if you are going for food ventures. Public bathrooms nearby and somewhat clean.
Eva G — Google review
These markets are alittle bigger and have a few more different stores,
The food truck options have increased a little.
My favourite things here are the Dumplings from my photos,they are still the best here,also the pork on a stick.I consider the dumpling vendor here my uncle,because we're his regulars and he knows our order before we have to say it.
The mini donut man is No longer here 😥,it would be good if he returned.But the key cutter is cheap and does x3 House/Car standard keys cut for $10.
Theres also a cheap watch battery changer aswell..
The fruit n vege is cheaper here then in supermarkets.
The negatives about these markets are,
Most of the 2nd hand brick a brac are close to the price of brand new and theres next to No free parking
This playground is perfect for the summer when the sun is shining and the beach is bustling with people. There are slides, swings, a water play area, and a hamster wheel for kids to enjoy. There's also a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round and trampoline for families who want to have some extra fun. This park is close to shops if you need something to take home with you after playing.
Best playground on the beach, slides, swings, water play, hamster wheel,trampoline, round about and seesaw
There is drinking water, changing room, and toilets.
The beach is okay to swim in and has good wives in windy days
Ice cream shop close by 😋😋
Nahed Alhaj — Google review
Absolutely love this park and the options for our 3yr old. There are great options for all ages of kids. Excellent toilet facilities right next door plus close to good restaurants.
Ashleigh Green — Google review
Very good playground for kids, and right by the beach. Enjoy the swim, picnic and can bring dog🐕. Eatery place is not far just a few mins walk. Busy playground in the weekend and free parking on Sunday 🤗
Gech “Nai” Dam — Google review
Really clean! Keep in touch with the I Love Takapuna group or the Auckland Council as they have a lot of community events there. Great day for the family, and the lifeguard station is there behind the park to take the kids swimming.
Louise Bettridge — Google review
Takapuna playground is one of the top playgrounds in New Zealand it's awesome recommend anyone to take their children if you I have never been there it's the awesomest
Jamie Hayward — Google review
A great playground with a wide variety of play equipment such as a rotating drum, three different height slides and extensive climbing ropes but this is also its weakness as it gets very crowded at most times. Not crowded today though.
Doughnut ANZ (DoughnutNZ) — Google review
A really cool playground has just about everything close to everything heaps of car parks, toilets and changing rooms after playing in the playground go to the beach next to it something for most kids ages always heaps of kids here would deff recommend you try coming here
joey mcintosh — Google review
Always fun in the sun. Big open beach and nice playground. Close to shops if you want to have a picknic
Jacques Kruger — Google review
Always fun to go there. Very big playground with lots of things to do for kids...even for grown ups 😆
Nice walk on the rocks.
Very challenging to find parking most of the time.
Felicia Felice — Google review
This outdoor playground is fantastic. Very well made and safe for ages 3 to 8 ... my best guess.
It is undergoing an expansion soon... to be finished in July 2023.
Next to a new toilet, changing block ... and of course the beach.
Willson Silver — Google review
Small but fun playground. Nice beach and grassed area as well, kids enjoyed the space even though it was crowded on a Sunday afternoon.
Shane de Mello — Google review
Very buzzy family oriented place! Beautiful seaviews, fun and relaxing!
Adrienne Old — Google review
There tables and BBQ, also public toilet. Nice place to go with you kids and family. The parking around was a little expensive.
Camila V — Google review
A very relaxing and beautiful beach. Can walk back and forth in half an hour. Fun places for kids and dogs. There are also benches under the big trees facing the sea. Really recommend to enjoy some time there.
Daisy H — Google review
The playground is a must visit for kid.
The community board recently added an extended playground area and more play tools for kid.
Addition 2 BBQ pits are good place for those who wanna enjoy cooking food for themselves at the beach.
Sai Seng Tip — Google review
Great playground for a variety of ages - will occupy even up to older toddlers with the massive slides. And don't forget the beach is right there for a wander!
Troy Spence — Google review
Great playground for the kids..even hammocks!! Paid parking is easy to use..close walk to township only 200m. Many cafe's in close vicinity and usually ice-cream or waffle type caravans parked close to playground in the weekends. Toilets and changing rooms only meters away. A nice beach right there as well. Caters for everyone's wants and needs.
The Bruce Mason Centre is a beautiful venue that may not be as ornate as The Civic in the CBD, but still has its own charm. It offers various shows and events, from comedy nights to live podcasts. The seating is decent, although some find the overhead lights for outer seating a bit distracting. For kids' shows, they provide cushions for added comfort. While the cafe could improve its food options, overall it's a well-organized and enjoyable place to attend events.
Great place and staff so helpful. I was there with friends and family to celebrate my husbands graduation ceremony.
Alison Hobbs — Google review
The theatre itself is nothing special. Very dated and no WOW factor which is a shame for a night out. Small tightly packed seats. Has a Bar and ice creams. Water available. Good to have this facility on the North Shore.
M Johnstone — Google review
Came to see the show Respect, the Aretha Franklin show, and just wow! How amazing! This was such a wonderful night. Parking was easy in the car park just near the front door. The foyer was packed with people chatting and drinking alcoholic beverages. It was easy finding our seats inside. Great air conditioning. Exiting the theatre after the show took some time. Toilets were very clean.
Soo Woo — Google review
Really nice venue. We came here for a kids show and we liked that they had cushions to put them up so they can enjoy the show. Really good organisation too. The only thing that is not that up to par is the cafe which could have had more healthy choices than a few slices and M&Ms.
Marine Funfrock — Google review
Venue was very clean, staff were friendly and helpful, seating was comfortable. And the show was great. Can't ask for more in a venue.
Karen Turner — Google review
Excellent all around. Ready access to parking right next to the venue that is very cheap. All the staff were fantastic and friendly and the facilities are in top notch condition. Absolutely awesome and I really enjoyed myself.
James Appleby — Google review
The Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna, Auckland, is an absolute gem! I recently attended a concert there and was blown away by the experience. The venue is modern, spacious, and well-equipped with top-notch audio and visual systems. The staff were incredibly friendly and professional, ensuring a seamless experience from ticket purchase to the end of the event. The location in Takapuna is fantastic, with plenty of dining options nearby and stunning views of the ocean. Whether you're attending a concert, play, or conference, the Bruce Mason Centre is a fantastic choice. Highly recommended! 5 stars without hesitation.
Shubham Solanki — Google review
It may not be as ornate as The Civic in the CBD, but still beautiful in its own right. Been there for two different shows so far, a comedy night in a small side "room" as defined by nice curtains but had a bar right outside it and was good fun. Then saw a live podcast inside, another one soon too, and seating wasn't too bad. The overhead lights for the outer seating honestly is a bit annoying as you end up staring at them to see the stage, but it is what it is.
Geoff Wilson — Google review
Wonderful concert venue. Heard Airforce Brass Band today. Wonderful show. Acoustics were excellent. Seating and furnishings top class.
Rob Finn — Google review
Great venue and a great show, the Pink Floyd Experience. My third time I have seen the band, first time was in about 1997 or 98.
anthony851 — Google review
My wife and I love to go to concerts and shows here. Easy parking and a good venue with pubs and restaurants not to far down the road. Prices are very reasonable. The last show we saw was a CCR tribute band from OZ. Really good and thoroughly recommend checking out their website.
Paul Leadbetter — Google review
This venue always puts on a great concert or show. Seats are comfortable. Access is great. Unfortunately there is always a que in the ladies toilets. Always plenty of room to have a boogie in your seat.
MJ Wads — Google review
The venue is impressive, and the seats are comfortable. However, the sound quality at the concert tonight ( Arash & Masih Concert ) was really bad.peogram starts one hour late . During the intermissions, I gave feedback to the sound team, but there wasn't much improvement. I ended up returning home with a headache. I felt lost in the acoustics of the hall, and the music was excessively loud with a distracting "dop dop" sound. This issue has been observed before as well. Hope to see improvement in the future.
Arash Armand — Google review
Went to see Michael Jackson on stage. Was in the first three rows and was very loud. Wouls definitely go to this place again.
IanandLynette Melton — Google review
The wiggles was creepy and disturbing. The performance wasn't great and the cast have drastically changed! However, the theater itself was pretty well structured though I must say the food was overpriced. Would not recommend going again unless you are a building inspector, then you would not have to do any work
MnM — Google review
Great show. Large seating area. Decent amount of leg room but seats are slightly crowded. Seats are firm but comfortable...
Jordan Penny — Google review
Attended morning melodies in December, an hour of NZ Navy Band. Excellent all round. Seats comfortable and good views. (Stalls)
The North Harbour Stadium is a versatile venue that can accommodate various sports events and open-air concerts. It has a seating capacity of 25,000 people and boasts an electric atmosphere. The stadium hosts Rugby and Soccer matches, as well as baseball games such as those played by the Tuatara team in December 2019. Food options are available on-site along with temporary portable toilets for guests' convenience.
Heaps of room and great drainage and covered seating for uncertain weather at concerts it would be hard to turn into a mud bath like at other events.
Wayne Anderton — Google review
Huge stadium atmosphere in the north shore area food on-site toilets and grass seated areas.
Brian Baird — Google review
Nice stadium - really clean and staff are friendly / helpful. Just the instructions on how to get to the stadium on google are a bit hard to follow and with events on you have to walk quite far to get to the stadium. Loved my experience here watching the Tuatara's and will be back again.
Kelita Hornell — Google review
Went to the pools. Lots of classes on, so not much room for swimming lengths. Spa fantastic. Heaps of life guards keeping an eye out.
Sylvia Hogg — Google review
A very popular swimming pool. Nicely greeted by staff in reception area. Separate swimming areas depending on age and ability. A sauna. I noticed a lot of life saving staff. The number on duty at one time will depend on how busy the pool is. All staff including reception are First Aid and CPR certified. They have a large parpark with an even surface and accessible/ disabled specific parking. Access to building is level and there are specific changing areas and toilets. The key can be obtained at reception. There is a hoist for safe and easy access in and out of pool assisted by pool staff who are trained in this procedure.
They offer a limited selection of food and drinks for sale. Also for sale are goggles, swimmers and safety jackets for young swimmers who are supervised by their parents.
Margaret Harding — Google review
The stadium bit old but all good for rugby fans
Leon M — Google review
Wonderful Diwali event. Very well organized.
Mani Kaul — Google review
Never know there is conference facilities here. The venue was great - not as grandeur as Eden Park though. The aircon noise was so loud that it sounds like a plane was taking off.
A K — Google review
I didn’t even know I liked baseball until we had the opportunity watch a whole series in December of 2019 as part of a fundraiser we were doing for our suicide prevention charity. The Tuatara were amazing. The games were so much fun and the atmosphere was just electric. Absolutely brilliant time at the ball field.
Ann Brennan — Google review
We went here for Allblacks vs South Africa game. Not sure if the stadium has finished its construction, since we sat on temporary scaffold section. They also provide temporary portable toilets. Great game though!!
IsH — Google review
Easy to get to by bus NX2 a small walk. But plenty of parking. Staff friendly and helpful. Food and drink was sold also club merchandise
Jacquimc McQueen — Google review
Awesome place….I’ve been to the Juicyfest
Asanka Watareka — Google review
I was only outside the facility itself, dropping off & picking up my adult children from Juicy Fest 2024. I found this to be unexpectedly easy. It was lovely to see the stadium again. We used to be able to see it from the motorway once. I'm a "Bring back Buck fan" This stadium reminds me of his everything - He's bought up in Rotorua. He is a Sir Wayne Buck Shelford now 💟 He owned a pub up Silverdale. He coached here (at this stadium) He's a survivor of a deep illness. My children appreciated the open roof + rain during the concert. Because this is a hot summer. All four seasons in one day xx
The Torpedo Bay Navy Museum is a small but well-presented museum with an extensive collection of artifacts relating to the history of the Royal New Zealand Navy. It is open Tuesday - Friday 9am to 4pm, Saturday 10am to 1pm and by appointment. There is also a cafe on site where visitors can relax and enjoy views of the harbour.
Well arranged, entertaining and interesting exhibits. Great little cafe next door and wharf were you can see boaties in the busy Harauki gulf.
Jacky Grant — Google review
Absolutely fantastic, friendly knowledgeable staff, loads of exciting information, interactive resources. An excellent well run museum with a wealth of information and stories. All facilities superb, cafe wonderful and again also very helpful from all aspects, particularly since we had come from Scotland to visit. Will hopefully and almost certainly return, god willing. Thanks all for a wonderful day. Met with loads of staff and all wonderful, Euan, Michael, Andrew, Stewart and David, all the administration staff and kitchen staff. What a wonderful museum and what lovely people. John and Maureen Blake
John Blake — Google review
The Navy Museum in Devonport offers a captivating journey through maritime history, showcasing a diverse range of naval artifacts and exhibits. The well-curated displays provide insightful glimpses into New Zealand's naval heritage, making it an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The museum's attention to detail and interactive elements enhance the overall enjoyment, making it a must-visit for those with not just an interest in naval history but for everyone.
My Odyssey — Google review
I really enjoyed this. Another area of remembrance that those that gave so much don't get the recognition they deserve.
So nice seeing how ordinary these men were.
I wish there was more to it as with other naval museums around the world but its doesn't appear to be a focus of NZ.
The bonus is the Naval base down the road has a turret from the Achilles and the gun control tower on display. 🙂👍
nzmonsterman — Google review
Free entry. Donations encouraged. Helpful and knowledgeable staff.A small museum with stories to tell. The buildings it is housed in have a great story to tell. Full marks to those who made the decision to use the buildings instead of demolishing them and putting up a new purpose-built building. We loved the way excavated features such as the turntables were integrated into the displays. Stories and experiences of real people and the realities of life at sea, wartime conditions and roles during various conflicts. This is a must see. The Cafe is great, too.
Jennifer Barry — Google review
Underrated museum that after almost nine years of living in Auckland I knew nothing about until I visited with my son this weekend. Free for Aucklanders - but I donated $10 because of how great this place is.
Very informative exhibits, well maintained, beautiful old buildings incorporated into the new, and probably the best maintained and stocked kid’s art and craft room I’ve come across. Didn’t get a chance to try the cafe but it’s popular and has great views back over to the city. Car parking on site is limited but plenty of on-street parking a short walk away.
Daniel Kinnoch — Google review
This is really a very "under the radar" Museum but is an absolute must to visit. Car parking is free, entry is free, but a small $5 donation is welcome. I especially liked the signage when you enter that states you are on Defence Force property - it makes you appreciate the experience so much more. This Museum is part of our Navy and it really feels like a privilege to be invited in. I only have one suggestion, you seriously need to see if you can create a maritime link with the NZ Maritime Museum, being able to take a vessel from your Museum to theirs (and vise versa) would be an amazing experience!
Dr Brett Heagren — Google review
Very nice little museum. Easy to find parking nearby. Lots of interesting memorabilia and pictures of soldiers who were brave or lost lives. Tons of very well done ship replica models. You might learn something like I did, flags on the ship have a coded meaning.
Susan Newman — Google review
I would definately recommand everyone to visit this museum. Super friendly and welcoming staffs. We were impressed with the details in every little batterships there and kids' activitity zone was a great fun.
Amornwan Silapadech — Google review
Interesting and well laid out displays. Well worth a walk over to visit.
However, similar to the war memorial museum, they seem to let local residents in for free, subsidised by charging foreign resident tourists
I travel the world a lot, and am quite surprised at how discriminatory NZ is against foreign tourists, with regard to milking them at these locations, when compared to most other countries
Why not just operate an equality entry policy with the normal reductions for kids and pensioners, which sends out a more welcoming message. I'm sure locals would be equally happy to support these quality venues through modest entrance fees
Gilbert O'Sullivan — Google review
At the far end of King Edward Esplanade Devonport, so a really lovely walk. Sandy Beach in picturesque setting with beautiful old style homes behind. The Navy Museum was well worth a visit. Really good cafe and also a small shop. Enjoyed it very much!
Rosemary Jones — Google review
Fantastic experience. Really interesting pieces on New Zealand's naval history - absolutely worth the trip
Johnny Ramsay — Google review
Superb value! We took a ferry from Auckland to Devonport and walked round the coast path/road to the museum. Spent a good 2 hours looking around and learning some fascinating facts and stories about the parts played by the NZ navy in times of war and peace. Finished in the adjoining cafe with a flat white and the best mince & cheese pie I tasted during our stay in NZ (and I tried several). Thoroughly recommended way to spend a morning or afternoon.
Mark Bailey — Google review
Great Museum. Good size and well laid out showing the history of the NZ navy. On site great cafe for food after. NZ locals free entry others $10 NZD
Cameron Billiau — Google review
Lovely outing with my residents from HBH Senior Living Apartments in Howick.
A lovely little museum and a fantastic café.
The café was enjoyed very much by all 9 of us, with one saying that was the best scrambled eggs he's had!
Maree Chisnall — Google review
A great spot. The kids loved it here, they catered so well for the younger crowd with a Morse code scavenger hunt, and you learn alot about our navy. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable. The kids loved the playground outside too. The cafe looked good but we didn't stay for food. Next time.
Nikki Rowan — Google review
Attended here with a group of ladies, and we had a good time. Our guide was informative. I particularly enjoyed the wee space that was dedicated to the WRNZNS, the womans service to the New Zealand Navy. Our group had a lovely luncheon there. It was a good day. The place is set on the waterfront in Devonport, and the sight is gorgeous even though it was late winter.
Maria-Theresa Kare-Ariki — Google review
I've been to this museum twice (although many years apart). It's not particularly large, but it is a very informative museum that details the history of the Royal New Zealand Navy. The exhibits are informative but given the size I don't think it takes more than an hour to go through everything. Also serves as a great excuse to escape from the Auckland CBD, just taking a short ferry ride to Devonport and then a nice walk along the waterfront for 10-15 minutes.
Smiths Bush is a beautiful ancient native forest near the city center, featuring enormous puriri trees and tall kahikatea and totara trees. The raised flat wooden walking path allows people of all abilities to enjoy this natural paradise. However, its proximity to the motorway means that visitors can hear native insects and birds amidst the noise from the road, which may detract from the peacefulness of the experience.
Great gem at our back door. Took our dog for a short walk, boardwalk all the way with most having recently been re-done. The trees were the star attraction, spectacular in height and some really old grande dames 👍🌲🌿🐕😊
Shane Ensorsmith — Google review
A nice walking track - all on a board walk platform, an oasis in the city, right next to busy SH1 motorway. This is a special type of bush with quite different plant species not so common in other native bushes in Auckland. Quite strangely there are no Kauri trees and historical attempts to plant Kauri have not been successful. Quite a lot of Kahikatea, Puriri and Cathedral Grove are present largely in this bush. In the winter or after a heavy rain spell you can see a tiny waterfall. This native bush has been subjected to so much abuse by humans in its history and now in the process of recovering very slowly but steadily thanks to the efforts of the Auckland council with the help of volunteers. Visitors are kindly reminded to confine their walk to the board walk only as walking on the soil will kill the young and upcoming little native plants.
Thilal Pandith — Google review
Lovely free natural native bush walk. The boardwalk in a number of places is broken, take care. The tall large trees have interesting shapes.
Jo-Anne Huesser — Google review
Small little adventures. Can go for a long walk Round the forest. Big native trees. I guess People can get lost there. Should put a sign around.
Pranesh Chand — Google review
The entrance is right next to Takapuna District Cricket Club. It's a short 20 minutes loop bush walk.
TheNZLILY — Google review
A nice local bush with a track and good signage to illustrate the trees and biodiversity.
Convenient location for those in the area, though limited animal life because of the small size, and motorway traffic removes you a little from the tranquility of it. Definitely a go to for a quick nature walk. Be sure to protect it from development!
Richard Wilde — Google review
Great local bush walk. Boardwalk all the way around and flat. Did take a short detour which turned out to be another entrance and encountered a Kereru.
Debbie Stevens — Google review
Smiths Bush is always a lovely place to go for a walk. There are repairs being made to the boardwalk which is great to see. It would be nice if the boardwalk was a little wider to allow people walking in opposite directions to pass easily.
Kelly James — Google review
A hidden oasis in the middle of Auckland. Fresh air, calmness and heaps of very old trees, so Jurassic you can even spot a Dino around the walkway if you’re lucky! 😂 easy walking on a path, fully covered by tress and birds. Dogs are welcomed on a leash, all rubbish needs to be taken with you.
Debora SC — Google review
Nice, cool place. Good place to take a walk.
Sasi Nambiar — Google review
Quiet and peaceful decked walking trail in the bush. Good place to walk with your dog and refresh your mind.
myungwoon Lee — Google review
Fabulous ancient native forest with enormous puriri trees and tall kahikatea and totara trees. A raised flat wooden walking path enables people of all abilities to enjoy this piece of natural paradise ckose to the city centre however, it is next to the motorway, so while I could hear the native insects and birds, the noise from the motorway did not make my visit feel peaceful. Perhaps it would be better with peaceful music and headphones.