Maungawhau / Mount Eden (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Maungawhau / Mount Eden?
What makes it 66% Baby-Friendly: Parents with babies can push strollers partway and use carriers for the rim, yet steps, lack of change tables, and limited shade mean extra gear and planning are required.
Positives:
- Free entry and learning: All paths, Te Ipu Kōrero and picnic areas are free to use.
- Basic baby-friendly facilities: Find toilets on Puhi Huia Road and a drinking fountain near the playground.
Challenges:
- Boardwalk steps: The timber boardwalk around the summit has steps and is not fully pram–friendly.
- No dedicated change room: There is no official baby-change table; bring a portable mat and nursing cover.
What is Maungawhau / Mount Eden?
- A 196 m-high dormant scoria cone and the highest natural elevation in Auckland, formed by explosive basaltic eruptions within the Auckland Volcanic Field
- An ancestral Māori maunga featuring extensive terracing, pā earthworks and a central crater from historic fortified settlements
- A Tūpuna Maunga jointly managed by Ngā Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makarau and Auckland Council, safeguarding both natural and cultural values
What is so special about Maungawhau / Mount Eden for with baby?
- Carry your baby in a carrier to circle the crater with ease.
- Interactive Māori stories at Te Ipu Kōrero keep you engaged.
- Picnic spots and café high chairs near the summit.
- Free toilets, drinking fountain and picnic tables available.
- Sweeping 360° views from Auckland’s highest natural point.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time to reach the summit, explore Te Ipu Kōrero, rest at the café and enjoy a picnic without rushing with your baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Maungawhau / Mount Eden
Carry baby around the crater rim:
Use a baby carrier to walk the full rim path and enjoy 360° city and harbour views safely.
Tip: Stay on the marked path and avoid boardwalk sections with steps if using a stroller.
Explore Te Ipu Kōrero learning centre:
Watch the short interpretive video and use the interactive Māori model in the kiosk.
Tip: Keep your baby in a carrier and take turns exploring the display for hands-free learning.
Relax at Friend & Whau Café:
Order coffee and light bites while your baby sits in a high chair or carrier.
Tip: Ask staff for a quiet table and use a portable change mat if you need to feed or change your baby.
Picnic on the grassy crater rim:
Spread snacks on flat grass areas beside the crater for a calm family break.
Tip: Choose a sheltered spot away from wind and bring a blanket and sunshade or rain cover.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Maungawhau / Mount Eden
- Travel by bus: Take bus routes 12 or 64 to Mt Eden Village to avoid parking and walk up from Puhi Huia Road.
- Visit early: Arrive before 9 AM for quieter paths, easy seating and better light for photos.
Reviews of Maungawhau / Mount Eden
2h
One of the most wonderful places I've ever been. The view is a must see and it's easy to get here from the city centre by public transport, even before dawn. I came here at sunrise. Someone had a great idea to plant bird feeding bushes at the lookouts so there's lots of wildlife. The only downside is the irresponsible dog owners who feel like the rules do not apply to them and let their dogs run a...
Monique Blake
This is a must to do if you are physically fit.. the views of the city are 360 degrees splendidly. A volcano peak , crater, and boardwalk with bench .. the bus hop on , hop off takes you there at the bottom as well .. we took the city bus which took us pretty close as well . It’s free …
Vũ Quang Huy
A must visit spot in Auckland with stunning 360° views of the city. The walk to the top is not difficult and rewards you with the impressive crater of an extinct volcano. Rich in history with visible Māori terracing, and well-preserved as a natural, peaceful place right in the heart of the city.
Rafsan Samir
Amazing views and a peaceful escape right in the city!** Mt Eden (Maungawhau) is one of the best spots in Auckland to get a full 360° view of the city, harbour, and surrounding areas. The walk to the summit is short but scenic, with well-maintained paths and plenty of photo opportunities. The volcanic crater at the top is massive and impressive—it really makes you appreciate Auckland’s volcanic h...
Raghav Abbhi
This is the highest volcanic origin peak in Auckland region. The location is very central and one can easily forget that it is in the middle of the city, when one starts climbing the summit. Vehicle access is allowed only until the parking, which is quite limited too. The nearby streets do have on street parking, where one can park and walk up the summit. There are many engaging features installed...
When is the best time to visit Maungawhau / Mount Eden (Auckland, New Zealand)?
Summer: go early and dress your baby in a sun hat and lightweight layers. Winter: pack warm layers and windproof outerwear. Always check the weather for high winds at the summit.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Bus fare for 2 adults | NZD 7 |
| Café snack and drinks | NZD 20 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 27 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Maungawhau / Mount Eden
Address: Maungawhau / Mount Eden, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024, New Zealand
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