About North Head Historic Reserve

Called 'Maungauika' by the early Maori population, the reserve was once a strategic military location. It is a hill filled with guns, canons, and other weapons, originally built to face the Russian invasion in 1800. The cone of an ancient dormant volcano, the hill had specialized guns that could recoil by themselves after a shot, and were popularly known as ‘disappearing guns.’ The very same guns can now be seen at South Bakery. Throughout the location, there are convenient self-guided paths that point out all of the sites specifically to be seen. The hilltop provides an enthralling view of the Coromandel, the Waiheke Island, and Auckland's skyline.

Must See

  • Self-guided walk through tunnels joining the historic forts.
  • Short movie show at the summit.
  • Learn about the military history of the area.
  • Torpedo Bay Navy Museum.
  • Old caves to explore, ancient guns to admire, native trees, and beautiful hills to trek.

How to reach

Travel by a ferry from downtown Auckland to Devonport Wharf, followed by a 10-minute walk to the reserve. A car or taxi from Auckland Downtown takes 30 minutes to reach the North Head Historic Reserve. It is 7.2 km from the city center.

Tips

  • Vehicle access is only via Takarunga Road.
  • No proper roads, the surface is uneven with holes, especially in the tunnels.
  • Children need to be guided.
  • Dogs are allowed only on a leash and dog litter needs to be taken care of.
  • With no garbage bins in the reserve, tourists will have to carry their trash back with them.
  • Damaging any artifacts or historic remains is punishable by law.
  • Camping on the reserve is not allowed.

Visit Time

Monday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Wedneday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Thursday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Saturday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Sunday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

*The pedestrian gates close by 10:00 p.m.

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Waiting Time

No

 

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Entrance Fee

No

 

Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

2 to 4 hours

 

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Weather

Broken Clouds 14.27°C

 

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