Ohuiarangi / Pigeon Mountain is a 58-metre volcanic cone in Half Moon Bay, eastern Auckland, overlooking the Tāmaki Estuary from the Howick peninsula. It’s one of the smaller tūpuna maunga but one of the most restored — a major revegetation project has transformed the slopes with native plantings, and new boardwalks and steps make the 20-minute loop walk accessible to most visitors. The site erupted approximately 24,000 years ago and its wide tuff ring (explosion crater) — about 500 metres in diameter — is still clearly visible in the landscape.
Pigeon Mountain is a good option for families and those new to Auckland’s volcanic cones. The walk is short, the track is well-maintained, and the summit lookout gives clear views east over the Tāmaki Estuary towards Beachlands and the Hauraki Gulf.
Practical Information
| Location | Half Moon Bay, Howick, Auckland |
|---|---|
| Height | 58 m |
| Access | Free; gated hours apply |
| Gate hours | Summer: 7:00 am – 8:30 pm | Winter: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm |
| Main track | Full loop via summit, approximately 20 minutes; 900 m ascent with 157 return steps |
| Parking | Main car park adjacent to the trailhead, 64 Pigeon Mountain Road; additional access from Gills Road |
| Facilities | Toilets and change rooms at trailhead; playground at base; summit lookout; boardwalks |
| Dogs | Permitted on-leash |
| Managed by | Tūpuna Maunga Authority / Auckland Council |
About the Maunga
Ohuiarangi is one of the outer maunga of the Auckland volcanic field — younger in its eruption than many of the inner-city cones, and with a wider, flatter profile typical of tuff ring volcanism. The eruption produced a large explosion crater approximately 500 metres across; the 58-metre cone rises inside this depression, giving the maunga its distinctive layered appearance.
The maunga is one of 14 tūpuna maunga returned to Ngā Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makaurau in the 2014 Treaty of Waitangi settlement. The Tūpuna Maunga Authority has invested significantly in Ohuiarangi since then: over 71,000 native seedlings have been planted, more than 112 exotic trees removed, and a further 33,000 native trees are being established as part of the ongoing restoration programme. New boardwalks and steps were installed as part of a major track upgrade.
The Walk
The main loop takes about 20 minutes and gains 58 metres in elevation — manageable for most fitness levels. The ascent section involves 157 steps with boardwalk sections that keep the track in good condition year-round. At the summit, a purpose-built lookout faces east towards the Tāmaki Estuary, Beachlands, and on clear days the outer Hauraki Gulf islands.
The track descends via a different route, completing the loop back to the car park at the base. A playground at the trailhead makes this a practical family destination — younger children who aren’t ready for the climb can stay at the base while others go up.
Unlike most tūpuna maunga, dogs on leads are permitted at Ohuiarangi — an exception to the general no-dogs rule across the maunga network. Check current rules with Auckland Council if this is important to your visit.
Cultural Significance
Ohuiarangi is a tūpuna (ancestor) for the 13 iwi and hapū of Tāmaki Makaurau. The maunga was an important site for mana whenua over many centuries. Visitors are asked to treat the site with respect — stay on marked paths and observe any signage about protected areas.
Mountain biking is restricted at Ohuiarangi to protect the archaeological features and restore the maunga’s ecological integrity.
Where to Learn More
Tūpuna Maunga Authority — Ohuiarangi — cultural background, restoration programme updates and access information.
Auckland Council — Ohuiarangi / Pigeon Mountain Path — track notes, facilities and parking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the walk at Pigeon Mountain?
The full loop takes approximately 20 minutes. The ascent involves 157 steps with boardwalk sections, and the total loop distance is short — well-suited to families and casual walkers.
Are dogs allowed at Ohuiarangi / Pigeon Mountain?
Yes — dogs on leads are permitted at Ohuiarangi, unlike most other tūpuna maunga where dogs are not allowed. Confirm current rules with Auckland Council or the Tūpuna Maunga Authority before visiting.
Is there parking?
Yes — there is a car park adjacent to the trailhead at 64 Pigeon Mountain Road. Additional access is available from Gills Road.
Is it suitable for young children?
Yes — this is one of the more family-friendly maunga walks. The 20-minute loop is short, there’s a playground at the base, and toilets are available at the trailhead. The 157 steps are manageable for most school-age children.
What are the opening hours?
Gates are open 7:00 am to 8:30 pm in summer and 7:00 am to 7:00 pm in winter.
Is there a fee to visit?
No. Entry is free.
For more Auckland volcanic cone walks, see our guide to Auckland walking tracks. To the west, Maungawhau / Mount Eden is the city’s highest maunga and one of its most visited, with a dramatically deep crater at the summit.