The Devonport Highlights cycle is a 6.5-kilometre loop through the Devonport peninsula on Auckland’s North Shore — designed for cyclists of all skill levels with well-maintained on-road cycle lanes and shared paths. The ride passes scenic vistas of Rangitoto Island, Maungauika (North Head), and the Auckland skyline across the harbour, with key stops at Cheltenham Beach Reserve and Fort Takapuna. Bikes travel free on the Fullers ferry from downtown Auckland (12-minute crossing).
Practical Information
| Distance | 6.5 km loop |
| Difficulty | All skill levels — gentle gradient with well-maintained surfaces |
| Surface | On-road cycle lanes + shared paths |
| Highlights | Rangitoto Island views, Maungauika / North Head, Auckland skyline across the harbour, Cheltenham Beach Reserve, Fort Takapuna |
| Getting bikes there | Fullers ferry from Auckland CBD — 12 minutes; bikes free |
| Start point | Devonport Wharf — central Devonport village |
| Cost | Free (plus ferry passenger fare for adults) |
About the Route
The 6.5 km Devonport Highlights cycle is the shorter of two main Devonport cycling loops — designed as an accessible introduction to the peninsula’s cycling network for visitors and casual riders. The route uses a mix of on-road cycle lanes and shared paths, with gentle gradients that work for families and less-experienced cyclists who want a scenic ride without committing to a serious training session.
The scenic payoff is genuinely strong: the peninsula’s position at the head of the Waitematā Harbour means almost every stretch of the route has either harbour, beach or Rangitoto views. The named highlights — Cheltenham Beach Reserve and Fort Takapuna — give natural stopping points for breaks, swims or short walks. Maungauika (North Head) is visible from much of the route and worth detouring to climb on foot if you have extra time.
Getting There by Ferry
Devonport is one of the easiest Auckland cycling destinations to reach without driving — the Fullers ferry from downtown Auckland takes 12 minutes across the Waitematā Harbour, and bikes travel free on the ferry. Park your car in central Auckland, ride your bike onto the ferry, and start the loop from Devonport Wharf.
Where to Learn More
Devonport Village — Walking & Cycling — local visitor information on cycling routes through Devonport.
Bikemap — Best Devonport Bike Routes — community cycling-route directory with GPS tracks for the Highlights loop and other Devonport routes.
Auckland Council — Narrow Neck to Devonport Path — official council page covering safe paths through the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the route?
6.5 km loop.
What’s the difficulty?
Suitable for all skill levels — gentle gradients on well-maintained on-road cycle lanes and shared paths.
What are the main scenic highlights?
Rangitoto Island views, Maungauika / North Head, Auckland skyline across the harbour, plus stops at Cheltenham Beach Reserve and Fort Takapuna.
How do I get my bike to Devonport?
Take the Fullers ferry from downtown Auckland — 12 minutes, bikes travel free.
Where does the loop start?
From Devonport Wharf — central Devonport village.
For the longer 9 km Devonport Explorer route see Devonport Explorer 9 km cycle.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.