Mt Albert may be fewer than 15 minutes from the city centre, but it’s far enough to enjoy an understated, proudly local vibe.
It’s not hard to find delicious ways to fill your day – even if you only have a few minutes to spare. Grab an artfully made flat white at Handpicked Coffee Roaster or pick up an iconic pie from Muzza’s. How does a pie with mince, chilli and sour cream sound? For those with time, brunch like you’re in France at the trendy café L’Oeuf or dig your chopsticks into modern Taiwanese street food at Chinoiserie.
On a fine day, you can’t beat a walk up to the summit of Ōwairaka / Te Ahi-kā-a-Rakataura. The mountain, like many scattered across Auckland, was an important Māori pā (fortified village) in the region. These days the maunga offers expansive views of the city – and it’s only a 20-minute walk to the summit.
Fancy seeing an urban waterfall? Head over to the Te Auaunga (Oakley Creek) Esplanade to walk along a creekside haven of fresh air, native flora and bird life. The entire path takes around an hour, which culminates with views of a six-metre-high waterfall – the only one in cental Auckland. If you’re into golf, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere and open fairways at Chamberlain Park Golf Course.
Got kiddos to entertain? Pop over to Ōwairaka Park for one of the rare playgrounds that has a flying fox – plus a skate park. Choose your own adventure over at the nearby grounds of Western Springs – amble around the idyllic park, spot exotic animals at Auckland Zoo, or immerse the whole family at the Museum of Transportation & Technology (MOTAT). All three attractions are only a hop, skip and a jump from Mt Albert, and are some of the most spectacular experiences within the greater Auckland area.
Getting there Te huarahi ki reira
Mt Albert is 10-15 minutes by car to the city centre and is on several bus routes, including the Outer Link. The Mt Albert Train Station links to the Britomart Train Station, and is right in the heart of the village.
Local tip He tīwhiri mō te rohe
There’s a secret bush walk winding from Alberton Ave to Westfield St Lukes. Take a peaceful 45-minute stroll along the Roy Clements Treeway Path before hitting the shops!
