Last updated November 2026
The Zig Zag Track is a bush walk in Titirangi that drops from Park Road, just south of Titirangi Village, down a deep stream gully to Titirangi Beach Road and the shore of the Manukau Harbour.
Auckland Council describes it as a 2.9 km track with switchbacks and stairs through native bush, suitable for walkers with moderate fitness. Tripideas gives 30–40 minutes one way. The track was closed after the 2023 storms and reopened in July 2025 after work to improve drainage and stabilise the path.
Practical Information
- Start
- Park Road, Titirangi (reached from Titirangi Road or South Titirangi Road)
- Finish
- Titirangi Beach Road, then a short walk to Titirangi Beach
- Distance from the city
- About 14 km from Auckland
- Walking time
- 30–40 minutes one way
- Track length
- 2.9 km
- Fitness
- Moderate fitness; switchbacks, steps and boardwalks
- Managed by
- Auckland Council (Waitākere Ranges Regional Park)
- Status
- Check Auckland Council’s open and closed tracks map before you go.
About Zig Zag Track
The name says it all. From Park Road the track switchbacks steeply down beside the deep gully of the Paturoa Stream, with steps and boardwalks along the way. It’s a short walk, but it gets you from the edge of Titirangi’s streets into the bush quickly.
The bush here is regrowth kauri forest with plenty of nīkau palms, and you pass several large kauri on the way down. Tripideas calls it an exceptionally pretty walk.
At the foot of the track you come out on Titirangi Beach Road, and a short walk further brings you to Titirangi Beach. Tripideas describes it as typical of the smaller beaches on the north-western side of the Manukau Harbour.
Auckland Council notes that the track is mostly used by locals heading down to the water. It suits anyone wanting a short bush walk close to Titirangi Village rather than a big outing in the ranges. Since it runs one way, plan on climbing back up the same way unless someone can collect you at the beach.
Repairs and Reopening
The Zig Zag Track closed after the severe weather events of 2023. Council rangers and contractors worked around steep ground, mature native trees and ongoing flood damage to bring it back. The upgrades improved drainage, stabilised the path and protected the surrounding ngahere, or forest. The council announced the reopening in July 2025.
Te Kawerau Iwi Tiaki Trust supported reopening the track in a way that protects the health of the whenua and kauri. The council reminds track users to use the cleaning stations and to check the latest updates before heading out.
Where to Learn More
OurAuckland: Zig Zag track reopens in Waitākere Ranges Regional Park: Auckland Council’s description of the route, its length and the repair work.
Auckland Council media centre: Zig Zag track reopens, Smyth Ridge, Kuataika and Zion Hill to follow: the council’s release on reopened Waitākere Ranges tracks and kauri protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Zig Zag Track start?
On Park Road in Titirangi, just south of Titirangi Village. You can reach Park Road from Titirangi Road or South Titirangi Road.
How long is the Zig Zag Track?
Auckland Council gives the track as 2.9 km. Allow 30–40 minutes one way, plus the climb back if you return the same way.
Is it a hard walk?
The council says it suits walkers with moderate fitness. It descends steeply, with switchbacks, steps and boardwalks.
Where does it finish?
At Titirangi Beach Road. From there it’s a short walk to Titirangi Beach on the Manukau Harbour.
What will I see on the way?
The deep gully of the Paturoa Stream, regrowth kauri forest with several large kauri, and plenty of nīkau palms.
Where can I check if the track is open?
Check Auckland Council’s open and closed tracks map before you go.
Can I bring my dog?
Check Auckland Council’s dog walking rules for the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park before you bring a dog.
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