Last updated June 2026
Ōhinerau / Mount Hobson is a 143-metre volcanic cone in Remuera, Auckland. It is one of the 14 tūpuna maunga managed by the Tūpuna Maunga Authority and offers walkers panoramic views across the city to Maungarei / Mount Wellington, Maungawhau / Mount Eden and the Waitemata Harbour. The maunga sits in a residential area between Remuera Road and Market Road. The main path to the summit is a steep climb that typically takes around 30 minutes from the road entrance.
Practical Information
| Location | 181-225 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland |
| Height | 143 m |
| Access | Free; main gates open 7am–8.30pm summer, 7am–7pm winter |
| Main track | Steep gravel and step path from Remuera Road; ~30 minutes to summit |
| Surface | Gravel, steps and mown grass |
| Parking | Limited on Pere Street; street parking on Remuera Road |
| Facilities | No toilets or picnic facilities on the maunga |
| Dogs | Must be on leash at all times |
| Managed by | Tūpuna Maunga Authority / Auckland Council |
About the Maunga
Ōhinerau is an ancient name meaning the place of Hinerau, goddess of whirlwinds. Another traditional name is Ohinerangi, meaning the place of Hinerangi, girl of the sky. A third name, Remuwera, dates to the 1700s. The maunga formed through an explosive fire-fountaining eruption that created a scoria cone with a central crater later breached on the southwest side.
The site was once a large Māori pā with terraces, defensive ditches, storage pits and houses covering the slopes. At its peak, an estimated 1,000 people lived there. Remnants of the terraces, pits and midden deposits remain visible, and visitors must stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing these archaeological features.
Ownership of Ōhinerau and the other tūpuna maunga returned to mana whenua in the 2014 Treaty settlement with Ngā Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makaurau. The Tūpuna Maunga Authority now co-governs the maunga with Auckland Council, overseeing ecological restoration that replaces exotic vegetation with native species.
The Walk
The primary access is from Remuera Road. The path climbs steeply via gravel sections and steps, gaining height quickly. A loop option descends via Mount Hobson Lane toward Market Road. The route is short, roughly 0.5–1 km depending on the return path chosen.
From the summit there are 360-degree views. Maungarei lies to the southeast, Maungawhau to the west and Te Kōpuke / Mount St John immediately south. On clear days the Waitemata Harbour and Rangitoto Island are visible to the north. No toilets or picnic facilities exist on the maunga itself, though cafés and amenities are available nearby in Remuera.
Cultural Significance
Ōhinerau is regarded as a living ancestor by the iwi and hapū of Tāmaki Makaurau. The pā earthworks are protected archaeological sites. The Tūpuna Maunga Authority manages the maunga as part of ongoing programmes of cultural interpretation, ecological restoration and public access across all 14 tūpuna maunga.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers describe the steep climb as rewarding, with excellent city and harbour views from the summit. Many note the short but demanding gradient and appreciate the quiet residential setting compared with busier cones.
Visitors often comment on the visible pā terraces and the sense of history. They recommend arriving early for parking and following the marked paths to protect the site.
Where to Learn More
Tūpuna Maunga Authority — Ōhinerau: official cultural background, pā history, geology and current access rules.
Auckland Council — Ōhinerau / Mount Hobson: park details, opening hours and rules.
Auckland Council — Ōhinerau / Mount Hobson Path: track notes and practical walking information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ōhinerau the highest maunga in Auckland?
Ōhinerau reaches 143 m and is the highest of the 14 tūpuna maunga managed by the Tūpuna Maunga Authority. Maungawhau / Mount Eden is taller at 196 m but is classified separately.
How long does the walk take?
The steep climb from Remuera Road to the summit takes approximately 30 minutes. Allow extra time if you are not used to steep gradients.
Is there parking?
Limited parking is available on Pere Street. Street parking along Remuera Road is the main option. Arrive early on weekends.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Are there toilets?
No toilet facilities are provided on the maunga. Nearby cafés and businesses on Remuera Road offer facilities.
Is it suitable for children?
The steep gradient makes it more demanding for younger children. Older children can usually manage the short distance with adult supervision. It is not suitable for prams.
What are the opening hours?
Main gates are open 7am–8.30pm in summer and 7am–7pm in winter, aligned with daylight saving.
Can I disturb the pā terraces or pits?
No. Stay on marked paths at all times. The terraces, pits and midden are protected archaeological features.
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