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Te akoranga i te pārae

Classroom in the parks

Classroom in the parks is a self-guided discovery walk programme for schools and the community.

About our walks

Our discovery walks give you an opportunity to learn about:

  • different ecosystems and habitats
  • native species
  • heritage of the area
  • threats to biodiversity.

You need to allow approximately two to three hours to complete each walk.

Walks are suitable for years 3 to 13, and groups of up to 30 people.

Support for schools

The walks and resources are free, however you will need to arrange your own transport to and from the walks.

A community ranger may be available to meet your school group at the location and help lead the discovery walk.

Email us at mylocalpark@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz to enquire.

You need to allow at least three weeks before your planned walk so we can check availability and make arrangements with you.

Information and resources for our walks

Kowhai Park

Location: 1 Matakana Road, Warkworth

During this walk you will learn about the history of the area and discover the importance of forest and stream ecosystems.

This walk starts at the entrance of the car park, passes the lime kilns, and follows a path through native bush.

​Read more about Kowhai Park.

Kowhai Park resources

Le Roys Bush Reserve

Location: Council Terrace, Northcote Point

This walk takes you through an area rich in Māori history and biodiversity.

The walk starts at Little Shoal Bay and goes through Te Uruao Valley and up to a waterfall.

​Read more about Le Roys Bush Reserve.

Le Roys Bush Reserve resources

Mangemangeroa Reserve

Location: Somerville Road, Howick

This is a pretty walk through farm land, native forest, wetland, and coastal habitat. There are some hilly sections.

Read more about Mangemangeroa Reserve.

Mangemangeroa Reserve resources

Murphys Bush

Location: Murphys Road, Flat Bush

This is a delightful and easy walk through remnants of kahikatea forest in the heart of Flat Bush.

Read more about Murphys Bush Reserve.

Murphys Bush resources

​Rooseville Park

Location: Ngahere Road, Pukekohe

This 1.5 hour walk starts from the main entrance at the end of Totara Avenue past volcanic rock formations and follows a looping path through native bush.

Read more about Rooseville Park.

Rooseville Park resources

Tahuna Torea Nature Reserve

Location: Corner of Roberta and Riddell roads, Glendowie

This is a stunning coastal reserve on the edge of the Tāmaki estuary.

The walk includes a visit to a nationally significant wading bird refuge.

Read more about Tahuna Torea Nature Reserve.

Tahuna Torea Nature Reserve resources

Tōtara Park

Location: Wairere Road, Manurewa

This walk follows the beautiful Puhinui Stream through a diverse forest and stream habitat.

​Read more about Tōtara Park.

Tōtara Park resources

​Western Springs Lakeside

Location: Great North Road, Western Springs

This is a pleasant walk around Western Springs Lakeside and tranquil areas of native bush.

​Read more about Western Springs Lakeside.

Western Springs Lakeside resources