North Head historic reserve lies across the bay from Auckland city, at the end of Devonport. It’s one of the first places we tend to take visitors to enjoy the expansive panoramic views of the city and the surrounding waters. We also bring a torch (flashlight) and explore the abandoned military tunnel complex.
The Maori people were the first to use this extinct volcano for defence. Later, in the late 1800s, it became one of many ideal spots for New Zealand’s military to set up a defence site protecting the country from the perceived threat of Russian invasion. We have also seen defence sites in Shakespear Park, Mission Bay, and Wellington.
We visited recently and enjoyed climbing the hillsides, walking through the maze of the military tunnels, examining the cannons and gun encasements, and we learned about the history through a free 20-minute movie in the old stone kitchen.
Entering the North Head tunnels
Disappearing Gun
Former Military Buildings
Beautiful Views Surround the North Head tunnels
Stunning natural views in all directions, it is no wonder this spot was chosen for defence. All the land here is part of the Auckland Park system.
Practical information on visiting North Head
- We always drive as there is plenty of parking at the bottom and the top of the hill. Plus, we also bring our guests to nearby Mount Victoria for different views of the city and fabulous sunsets.
- The ferry from Auckland to Devonport wharf takes only 12 minutes, and then you can enjoy a 1.5 km walk along the waterfront to North Head historic reserve.
- It’s free to enter and open from 6 am to 10 pm, although the vehicle gates close at 8 pm.
- A visit to North Head is just one of 75 free or nearly free things to do in Auckland and one of the more unique activities in the city.
Have you visited North Head Historic Reserve? Would you go into the tunnels?
If you enjoyed this article, please share it on social media, including Pinterest:
Stardome Observatory: An Evening Under the Auckland Stars
Kelleyn
Very cool! Would love to go to New Zealand one day!
Lisa @ LTTL
Fascinating. I love when old historical sites, like this, are maintained.
Lisa @LTTL
Rhonda Albom
I am not sure I would use the word “maintained”
Hilary
Hi Rhonda – they’re looking to do something with our Redoubt – which is historic … as it’s a Napoleonic fort -but the sea, weather and wear and tear are making it an expensive save … but these look amazing … and I’d love to visit the area … great views – cheers Hilary
bettyl-NZ
We tend to stay away from the ‘big city’ when we travel, although I know we will get around to places like this eventually. It’s good to have the info that you provide! good luck with the ‘perfect’ picture for your book. I don’t think I could settle on just one!
Sharon
These tunnels are so intriguing! I would love to explore them! And the scenery — simply stunning.
Elizabeth Seckman
What an interesting place. Gorgeous pictures.
indah savitri
looks interesting, Rhonda. We have similar ones in Indonesia and some of them are actually scary 🙂
Rhonda Albom
I don’t go into the scary ones.
Lisa Rivero
What wonderful photos! The colors are so inviting.
Driller's Place
I am always amazed at the remnants that war leaves behind.
Rhonda Albom
These were built for defence, never used for war.
Sharon Wagner
And the search continues. Good luck with your cover!
Christine
Thanks for sharing so much interesting info about this site & I would visit if I am ever fortunate to visit Auckland. Your photos are a joy & congrats on your soon to be released guide book!
Merlinda Little (Glimmer of Hope)
That last photo is the most stunning and I am wondering why it didnt make it! Lovely place to visit and your photos are just lovely!
We have an old fort near us too but the view is nothing compared to that of North Head.
Lexa Cain
It was state of the art in 1887. LOL! Thanks for sharing all the great pics. The location really provides a great panoramic view. Have a lovely week!
Terra
I like the idea of those long underground tunnels. Good to keep in mind in case of zombie attack, ha ha.
Rhonda Albom
LOL – There are all sorts of tunnels under Auckland, just for that very purpose.
Janie Junebug
What an interesting place to visit. It’s a piece of the past, and then you have the beautiful views outside. I’d like to go in a missile silo here in the U.S. Some people have purchased them and turned them into interesting homes. It would take a lot of work.
Love,
Janie
Rhonda Albom
What an interesting place to live, in an old missile silo.
Quirky Homemaker
Very nice photos! Congrats on the book!
Patrick Weseman
Those are some beautiful photos. It is amazing the stories those tunnels hold. Very nice.
Rhonda Albom
There are similar tunnels quite close to my house, but they are on current military land, so we can’t access them.
Karren Haller
I love visiting your blog, you have the most interesting history photographs. What a wonderful tour!! Karren
Sandee
Oh yes I would go into the tunnels. I would explore every square inch. I love these types of places and all the history associated.
Have a fabulous day. ☺
Photo Cache
The Aukland skyline is superbly captured. Your shots are excellent.
Teresa from NanaHood
I LOVE your photographs!
Dominique Goh
Interesting experience visiting old military tunnels. The only tunnels I’ve been to is on Sentosa island and that’s more then 15 yrs ago.
Parent Club
Looks like an interesting place to visit!
Tanja
interesting! I did the war tunnels in my city too:)
Rhonda Albom
These are not war tunnels, but rather defence tunnels. The Russians never invaded New Zealand.
ML
Not war tunnels? While they may be referred to as ‘Defensive’, there’s not a lot of demand for ‘Defensive Tunnels’ during times of peace, so I don’t think correcting everyone is necessary. I think Military may be a better word to use for the Maungauika tunnels and bunkers.
L. Diane Wolfe
I remember that place from your book! I would love to explore it.
nancy chan
Rhonda, I am one who will never want to go into narrow and dark tunnel. I much prefer enjoy the open space and its surrounding areas.
Linda Aksomitis
I’ll put this one on the list for when I get to New Zealand, Rhonda! I love to explore the historical aspect of destination.
KVVS MURTHY
Very interesting photos…Have a nice day.
Ellen @ The Cynical Sailor
This was one of my favorite places to go for a walk in Auckland. I loved taking the ferry over to Devonport. Great pictures!
Alex J. Cavanaugh
That would be a cool place to explore. Good to know you can’t get lost.
susan scott
beautiful photos thank you
stevebethere
That was interesting Rhonda loved those photos especially the view from the first exit and the Auckland one is beautiful 🙂
Have a scenictastic week 🙂