North Head Historic Reserve (Maungauika) Tours and Activities

To early Maori this strategic viewpoint was known as Maungauika, and looking out over Auckland’s Harbor and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, the summit of this ancient volcanic cone was perfect for fending off an attack. In the 1800s, under European rule, the hill was fortified with cannons and guns to deter a Russian invasion, and was again fortified during both World Wars to protect the precious harbor. Though the attacks themselves thankfully never came, the tunnels, guns—and view—still remain. As the fortification of the hill slowly grew, it ultimately became the preeminent coastal defense system in all of New Zealand. The guns here were cutting edge for the time they were built and installed, and included a pair of “disappearing guns” that would actually recoil back into the ground once they had fired a shot. The guns are visible at the South Battery, which along with tunnels dug by prisoners using light from flickering lanterns, are eerie reminders of the lengths it takes to defend a nation’s coast. 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 also treated with a view of Waiheke Island, the Coromandel, and Auckland’s downtown skyline.
Practical Info
The North Head Historic Reserve is open from 6am-10pm daily. From Auckland, ferries run to the Devenport terminal, which is 1.2 miles from the North Head Reserve.
Address: Takarunga Rd., Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Hours: Open 6am-10pm daily
11 Tours and Activities to Experience North Head Historic Reserve (Maungauika)
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Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise
1106
Cruise the waters of Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in search of whales, dolphins and penguins on a half-day tour from Auckland. You’ll board a spacious catamaran at Viaduct Harbour and hear expert guides share informative commentary about New Zealand’s natural wonders. During the whale and dolphin safari, keep an eye out for six types of whales that frequent these waters, as well as seabirds such as Australasian gannets, petrels and terns.
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From
$71.27
From
$71.27
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More

Full-Day: Auckland Scenic Tour- 8 HOURS
91
Make the most of your time in Auckland with a small-group tour that crams all the city’s best bits into just one day. Snap photos of Auckland Harbour Bridge, the Sky Tower and One Tree Hill; take in the views from Tamaki Drive and Mission Bay; explore vibrant neighborhoods like Ponsonby; and visit off-the-beaten-track attractions like Muriwai Beach, the Auckland Domain and Parnell.
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From
$100.79
Price varies by group size
From
$100.79
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More

Half-Day: Small Group Auckland Scenic Tour - 4 HOURS
30
Get a personalized introduction to Auckland’s most important sights on a half-day tour for your group of up to 11 people. Make the most of your time in Auckland with a convenient trip that includes round-trip hotel transfer from centrally-located Auckland hotels.
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From
$46.80
From
$46.80
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More

Half-Day Auckland North Head Guided Kayaking Tour
2
This kayaking tour is ideal for less-experienced kayakers who still want to get active in New Zealand’s great outdoors. It’s combined with a guided tour of the military bunkers at North Head, so you’ll get a break from paddling. You will be guided in the sheltered waters of Auckland Harbour, and enjoy the views of the city and nature.
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From
$71.99
From
$71.99

Piha "Wild West" - Wednesday
4
Explore the beaches, reserves, and waterfalls of rugged West Auckland with like-minded travelers on this easy day trip. Avoid the hassle of catching buses or driving yourself along mountain roads by joining a tour. You’ll visit several highlights of the area in one easy day, including Karekare and Kitekite Falls, the North Head Historic Reserve, and dramatic Piha Beach. At the end, enjoy a scenic ferry ride back to central Auckland.
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From
$73.84
From
$73.84

Auckland & Rainforest Tour by Car
Do you want to see New Zealand’s biggest city and its stunning rainforests in one day? With our Auckland & Rainforest tour you can! Picking you up at your hotel in the morning, we’ll start our fascinating trip at the Winter Gardens within the Auckland Domain’s volcanic park, then we’ll head to Devonport to take some amazing pictures of the city and Rangitoto Island. In the afternoon, we’ll leave the city’s busy atmosphere to see New Zealand’s rainforests and beaches. At Arataki Centre we’ll stop for a packed lunch and learn about the fauna and flora of this Regional Park. After that we’ll take an easy walk into the rainforest with giant tree ferns and pristine streams tinkling through the wilderness. You can also have the chance to see the unique Kauri trees. At the end of the day, we’ll stop at the beach of Karekare and you can see the magical beauty of Karekare Falls.
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From
$391.40
Price varies by group size
From
$391.40
Price varies by group size

Auckland City and Maori Culture Tour (private vehicle & guide)
3
See the sights of Auckland and learn a bit about the culture of the Maori people on a full-day city tour. Visit the Auckland Domain and its Wintergardens, Bastion Point, the city waterfront, and One Tree Hill at the top of a volcanic peak. Plus, watch a Maori haka performance, and have lunch at a local restaurant.
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From
$212.30
From
$212.30

North Auckland - East Coast Sun and Sand Tour
While central Auckland is busy, it doesn’t take long to get out of the city and experience small towns and beautiful beaches. On this easy tour you'll cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge and visit the North Shore and eastern coastline north of Auckland. Stop to enjoy coastal settlements like Devonport, North Head, and Takapuna, where you can enjoy the cafes, boutiques, views, and culture. It will feel like you’ve left Auckland for the day.
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From
$443.04
per group
From
$443.04
per group
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Learn More

Shore Excursion: Half Day Small Group Auckland Scenic Tour - 4 HOURS
Popular Tour now released as a Shore Excursion. This is the most comprehensive Half Day Tour of Auckland available; perfect for those arriving by cruise ship. Join this half-day Auckland Scenic Tour if you want to see as much of Auckland as possible in 4 Hours with a guide steeped in the history and knowledge of Auckland.This tour will ensure you are able to see all the iconic Auckland sights. Drive along Tamaki Drive by air-conditioned Mercedes with one of our guides renowned for their knowledge; discover the quaint village of Devonport, Mission Bay and gaze over the coastal scenery from Achilles Point. Travel to the top of 2 of Auckland's volcanoes for stunning 360 degree views; North Head, a volcano with the most spectacular views over the City, inner Harbour ; also up Auckland's highest volcano, historic Mt. Eden; visit the Auckland Domain, home to the Auckland Museum and the 2 stunning Wintergardens and Fernery. This 4-hour tour includes round-trip travel from your cruise ship.
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From
$48.00
From
$48.00
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More

Shore Excursion: Full Day Small Group Auckland Scenic Tour - 8 Hours
Popular Tour now released as a Shore Excursion.The most comprehensive Full Day 8 hour Auckland Tour available. See the top attractions of Auckland on this Full-Day Scenic Tour. Drive along Tamaki Drive by air-conditioned Mercedes with one of our guides renowned for their knowledge;discover the quaint village of Devonport,Mission Bay and gaze over the coastal scenery from Achilles Point. Travel to the top of 2 of Auckland's volcanoes for stunning 360 degree views; North Head, a volcano with the most spectacular views over the City, inner Harbour ;also up Auckland's highest volcano,historic Mt. Eden;admire native birdlife at Muriwai and the spectacular rugged coastline with black sand beaches; sip fine wines along the Kumeu Wine Trail.Visit the Auckland Domain, home to the Auckland Museum and the 2 stunning Wintergardens and Fernery. Enjoy our historic lunch stop in Riverhead. Marvel as we journey into the lush countryside.This 8-hour tour includes round-trip travel from your cruise ship
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From
$103.38
Price varies by group size
From
$103.38
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More

Auckland Sights Exclusive 4 Hour Luxury Day Tour
4
Get a comprehensive tour of Auckland's most important sites on this 4-hour excursion with a dedicated guide. Benefit from personalized attention and a flexible itinerary, which can cover what interests you. Alternatively, follow a classic itinerary that features landmarks such as One Tree Hill, Devonport, Queen Street, Auckland Harbour Bridge, and others.
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From
$147.68
Price varies by group size
From
$147.68
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More
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