Starts at Sultan Lane, Ellerslie
Enjoy an easy walk or bike ride around Ellerslie. Take in historic buildings, great cafes and wonderful mosaic art.
Start in Ellerslie town centre at Sultan Lane. It's a short train or bus ride from the city centre, and you can find parking on surrounding streets. Check out the Bridge of Memories, which connects the train station to Ellerslie township and spirals around a Norfolk pine – ‘the tree of life’. The mosaics on the Bridge of Memories tell the story of Ellerslie in colourful community artwork.
Stroll down Main Highway until you reach Ellerslie Domain. You'll pass Ellerslie Town Square (a great spot to watch the world go by, with plenty of shade and seating) and the former Ellerslie Post Office Building (now a popular local pub).
On the corner of Arthur Street is Ellerslie War Memorial Hall, built to commemorate those men and woman from Ellerslie killed in WWII. The poppy mural serves as a tribute to all who have served in the New Zealand armed forces. Stables Theatre is situated inside the hall and is home to the Ellerslie Theatrical Society, which performs regular theatre shows four times a year.
At Ellerslie Domain, take a quick pit stop. There's a kids playground if you have children with you. Then re-trace your steps towards Ellerslie centre. Turn right and walk up Ladies Mile, passing the historic Christ Church, a wooden gothic church that was opened in 1883. Notice the many different architectural styles including classic New Zealand villas.
Turn into Morrin Street and keep walking until you reach the Ellerslie Racecourse. Racing at Ellerslie began over 150 years ago. Take your time to enjoy the manicured racecourse gardens and grounds, and spot the bronze horse statue marks where the world famous racehorse Sunline is buried.
From here, head back to the starting point via Somerfield Street, Tecoma Street and Harrod Street. There are plenty of shops and cafes to enjoy in the town centre, including some of Auckland’s best organic outlets which are popular with visitors from all over the city.
