An Auckland Running Itinerary for When You're Seeking Captivating Views
Head to one of these postcard-worthy landscapes for your next training session.
In partnership with 
There's no reason for your run to be restricted to the cold, hard pavement — Auckland has plenty of postcard-worthy landscapes to hit. Together with New Balance we've rounded up five scenic running destinations to explore during your next training session.
Make your way up a volcanic summit for a stunning outlook across the city and harbour, head west to see Auckland's famous black sand dunes or sprint around the country's highest urban waterfall — the possibilities are endless when you're seeking captivating views.
MOUNT EDEN FOR AUCKLAND'S BEST CITY VIEWS
With panoramic views over Auckland's CBD and Waitematā Harbour, Maungawhau/Mount Eden is one of the most popular running trails in the city. The summit track might only be just over two kilometres, but the consistent climb can really push the lower body. Once you get to the top, there's a boardwalk around the volcanic crater perfect for a warm down and a viewing deck on the elevated northern knoll where you'll cop stunning views.
Pablo Garbarino.
OAKLEY CREEK PATHWAY FOR THE COUNTRY'S HIGHEST URBAN WATERFALL
Found right behind Waterview's Unitec campus is one of Auckland's best kept secrets — a six-metre-high natural waterfall. The running trail through established bush to the falls can be tailored to different fitness levels. There's the breezy 15-minute return loop following Oakley Creek (Te Auaunga), which leads you right up to the lookout, and longer options from the neighbouring Heron Park or Great North Road. The path is well maintained and has some steeper sections to really get that heart rate up.
ITravelNZ.
SHAKESPEAR REGIONAL PARK FOR EXPANSIVE HAURAKI GULF VIEWS
Located at the tip of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, about 40 minutes from downtown Auckland, is Shakespear Regional Park. The 'Heritage Trail' has plenty to offer for runners, including historic WWII sites, friendly farm animals, regenerating native bush and spectacular views across Tiritiri Matangi Island. The full loop around the peninsula is over nine kilometres, but you can opt for shorter routes off the main track through farmland and past a waterfall — perfect for a breather.
Department of Conservation.
RANGITOTO SUMMIT FOR CITY AND HARBOUR VIEWS
This 600-year-old island volcano is nothing short of captivating. It takes a 25-minute ferry ride from downtown to reach the rugged shores of the iconic Auckland landmark. Once you set foot on Rangitoto, it's a seven-kilometre, intermediate-level run up the summit track across ancient lava fields and through the largest pōhutukawa forest in the world. It takes approximately one hour to reach the top, but once you get there you'll witness breathtaking views back to the city and across both sides of the harbour. Good cushioned footwear and water are essential for this one.
Anthony Sowersby.
LAKE WAINAMU FOR BLACK SAND DUNES AND NATIVE BUSH
Head west in the direction of Bethells/Te Henga and you'll eventually come across the Lake Wainamu trail. From the carpark, the Waitākere Ranges route follows the stream for 25 minutes before it opens up to the lagoon and the base of an out-of-this-world black sand dune. From there, it's a 45-minute run around the lake which is fringed by native bush. After conquering the route you can decide whether to take the plunge in the fresh water or slide down the massive dune. How about both?
Together with New Balance, we've designed four challenges to help give you a head start on your wellness journey. You'll be in the running to score a wellness staycation at Castaways Resort in Karioitahi Beach for some much-deserved rest and relaxation.
If you're in the market for new running shoes, check out New Balance's Fresh Foam 1080v11 range here.
- The Ten Best Restaurants in Auckland
- Twelve Incredible Australian Islands for When You Want to Get Off the Mainland
- The Best Places to Go Glamping in New Zealand
- The Most Romantic Places to Stay in Bali When Proposals and Honeymoons Come Calling
- Our Guide to the Best Glamping Sites Around Australia
- Ten Films and TV Shows You Need to Stream This Month