North Head Summit — Attraction in Devonport-Takapuna

Well worth visiting. An ancient volcano that erupted about 90,000 years ago. It’s believed that Maungauika used to be an island after the last ice age before a sand and shell spit formed, linking it to the rest of the North Shore.

The tihi (summit), which looks across Tīkapa Moana / Hauraki Gulf, was an important lookout point and defence site for Māori who once called this maunga home, and the European settlers who came later.

At the base of Maungauika, where the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum now sits, archaeologists uncovered one of the oldest Māori occupation sites in Tāmaki Makaurau including charcoal ovens, moa bones and shell midden.

The location of Maungauika at the entrance to the Waitematā Harbour made it an important coastal defence. It was fears of a Russian invasion in the 1880s that led to the construction of a fort and the three disappearing gun batteries dotted along the maunga (mountain).

Ownership of Maungauika / North Head was returned to mana whenua as part of a 2014 Te Tiriti o Waitangi redress and is managed by the Tūpuna Maunga Authority.

For the early Maori, the strategic viewpoint of North Head was known as Maungauika. Looking out over Auckland Harbour and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, the summit of this ancient volcanic cone was perfect for fending off enemies. Today, tunnels, guns, and cannons—built in the 1800s to deter attacks under British colonial rule—remain.

Once fortified against a Russian invasion that never came, and again during both world wars to protect the precious harbor, the North Head Historic Reserve ultimately became the preeminent coastal defense system in all of New Zealand. There’s a self-guided walking path that points out many of the sights, and from the hill’s summit looking out over Devonport, visitors are treated with a view of Waiheke Island, the Coromandel, and Auckland’s...

North Head (Maungauika) in Devonport is a fantastic spot for a family outing or a local adventure. The dramatic grassy slopes offer sweeping views of Rangitoto, the city skyline, and the Hauraki Gulf, and the historic World War II tunnels and bunkers add an intriguing twist.

One of the most joyful local pastimes? Sliding down the lush grass banks on a piece of cardboard. It’s a simple pleasure—kids (and adults!) run up the slope, sit on their cardboard, and zoom down the hill with laughter and exhilaration . Whether you're there at golden hour or midday, grabbing a piece of cardboard from home (or sometimes recycled from nearby cafés) ensures hours of spontaneous fun.

Past the grassy slides, don’t miss exploring the historic tunnels, disappearing guns, and coastal bunkers. The contrast of fun and history makes it a memorable outing—picnic on the grass, then duck into the atmospheric caverns, torch in hand.

In short:

Panoramic views over the Gulf and Auckland harbour

Legacy military structures and underground tunnels

Grass sliding with cardboard—a nostalgic joy for kids and inner kids

Perfect picnic and...

North Head Summit is renowned for its spectacular views and historical significance. From the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views that encompass the rugged coastline, the vast ocean, and the distant city skyline. The accessible walking paths and viewing areas ensure that everyone can easily take in the natural beauty.

The site is also home to historic military fortifications and tunnels, offering a fascinating look into the area's past. Visitors can explore these structures and learn about their role in defending the city, adding an educational element to the experience. Information boards and guided tours provide detailed insights into the site's history.

In summary, North Head Summit combines natural beauty with historical significance. It's a great place for a scenic walk, a history lesson, or simply a peaceful escape. The views are spectacular, and the historical elements are well-preserved and informative, making it a worthwhile...