Maungawhau / Mount Eden (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Maungawhau / Mount Eden?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can handle the gentle path, picnic on grass, and play at the nearby Normanby Road playground, but parents must watch edges and there are no themed kid programs.
Positives:
- Safe Paths for Young Kids: Wide, paved and boardwalk sections let children walk or ride in a stroller safely.
- Free Cultural Learning: Te Ipu Kōrero offers interactive Māori history and geology at no cost.
Challenges:
- Exposed Summit: The crater rim is windy with little shade—kids can get cold or sunburned quickly.
- Uneven Terrain Off Main Paths: Grass and gravel loops may be slippery after rain and are not suitable for all strollers.
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 kids?
- Wide, smooth tracks make the summit accessible for kids and strollers.
- Normanby Road playground offers varied equipment on soft bark.
- Picnic spots on the crater rim with 360° Auckland views.
- Free interactive learning at Te Ipu Kōrero sparks children’s curiosity.
- Safe boardwalks and paths simplify navigation with little ones.
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the summit walk, playground break, picnic and a visit to the education centre without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Maungawhau / Mount Eden
Summit Walk via Stroller-Friendly Path:
Follow the paved footpaths and boardwalk from Puhi Huia Road to the crater rim.
Tip: Use a lightweight stroller or let kids walk; stick to the main boardwalk to avoid uneven grass.
Normanby Road Playground:
Let kids play on swings, slides and a climbing cone with a soft bark surface.
Tip: Bring spare clothes; the cushioned bark stays wet after rain.
Picnic on the Crater Rim:
Spread out near the grassy crater edge for sandwiches or snacks.
Tip: Pack plenty of water and windproof blankets; the summit can get breezy.
Te Ipu Kōrero Education Centre:
Watch the short video and handle the AR model inside the kiosk.
Tip: Visit mid-walk to give kids a rest and spark their curiosity.
Explore Almorah Rock Forest:
Take the side path into the lava-rock forest at the slope’s base.
Tip: Have children wear closed-toe shoes for safer rock scrambling.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Maungawhau / Mount Eden
- Start Early: Arrive before 10am to enjoy quieter paths and avoid midday sun.
- Combine With Mt Eden Village: After your visit, walk into the village for a family-friendly café brunch.
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)?
In summer, bring sun hats and water as there’s little shade on the crater. In winter, paths can get wet and muddy—wear boots and pack raincoats.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Summit walk | NZD 0 |
| Playground and crater picnic | NZD 0 |
| Packed snacks and water | NZD 20 |
| Friend & Whau Café treats | NZD 30 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 50 |
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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