Starts at Onepoto Domain, Sylvan Avenue, Northcote
A shared walk and cycle route exploring Onepoto Domain, within a volcanic cone that erupted 20,000-30,000 years ago.
This popular park has something for the whole whānau including a lake, picnic areas, children's adventure playground and 'learn to ride' bike path, a forest and wetlands.
Start your walk or cycle at the end of the car park in the centre of Onepoto Domain. The shared path is a mix of paved, gravel and boardwalk surfaces. It's mostly flat, with some moderate hilly trails through the forest.
Follow the path past the public toilets and sports fields, over the pedestrian bridge and around the freshwater lake (mind small children as it is not fenced). The lake is a favourite location for people racing radio control boats and model sail boats. Kids will love spotting ducks and eels.
Head back towards the car park, then take the path to your right past the children's adventure playground. The popular playground is suitable for all ages. There is a separate section for smaller children, and more challenging activities for older kids like the balance equipment, fort and flying fox.
If you have kids with you, don't miss the Onepoto Beginners Path - a safe cycling circuit with mock traffic markings that's perfect for children learning to ride bikes and scooters.
Continue along the path up into the regenerating forest on the crater rim. Look out for native birds and listen for birdsong. You can access this part of the park from Sylvan Avenue, however the entrance is steep and can be slippery when wet.
The route then takes you through a wetland which is home to pheasant, quail and pūkeko.
The path ends at a fantastic barbecue area, perfect for enjoying a relaxing afternoon. Find a picnic table away from the crowds and enjoy one of the quieter areas of Onepoto Domain.
Are you keen to feed the birds? Their favourite snacks are seeds and grains. Please don’t feed them bread as this affects the water quality of the lake and can make them sick. Remember to always feed them on land and avoid overfeeding them, as it’s better to encourage them to forage naturally.
