Last updated July 2026
Te Ara I Whiti — also known as the Lightpath — is Auckland’s iconic hot-pink elevated cycle and pedestrian path built on a former motorway off-ramp in the central city. The 640-metre route runs from Canada Street near Karangahape Road to the Nelson Street and Union Street intersection, featuring a programmable LED lighting system that activates and pulses with movement. It serves as both a practical commuter link and a striking public artwork, offering elevated views over the motorway junction and toward the Sky Tower. The path opened on 3 December 2015 as Stage 1 of the Nelson Street Cycleway and remains open 24 hours a day for cyclists and walkers.
Practical Information
| Distance | 640 metres (one-way) |
| Difficulty | Easy — gently graded |
| Start | Canada Street, near Karangahape Road |
| End | Nelson Street / Union Street intersection, Auckland CBD |
| Surface | Smooth sealed path on elevated structure |
| Opened | 3 December 2015 |
| Part of | Nelson Street Cycleway (Stage 1) |
| Lighting | Programmable LED system that pulses with movement |
| Suitable for | Cyclists and pedestrians; shared use |
About Te Ara I Whiti
Te Ara I Whiti translates as the path of light and was created by repurposing an unused section of the Nelson Street motorway off-ramp within Auckland’s central motorway junction. The design team included Monk Mackenzie Architects and LandLAB, in association with artist Arekatera Katz Maihi, who incorporated Māori design elements such as carved pou and surface patterns. The hot-pink epoxy resin surface represents the heartwood of a freshly cut tōtara tree and gives the structure its distinctive identity against the surrounding grey infrastructure.
The path provides a direct, traffic-free connection between the Karangahape Road area and the lower CBD, bypassing busy surface streets. Elevated above the motorways, it offers riders and walkers panoramic views while the LED lights along the barriers create an interactive experience that intensifies at dusk and after dark. It forms part of the wider Auckland Cycle Network and has become a popular destination in its own right, attracting both locals and visitors.
Since opening, Te Ara I Whiti has recorded hundreds of thousands of trips annually and celebrated its tenth anniversary in December 2025. The structure remains fully accessible and continues to host special light shows and events. Cyclists should ride considerately on the shared path and give way to pedestrians where needed.
What Visitors Often Say
The pink elevated path with its pulsing lights creates a memorable urban cycling experience that feels more like public art than standard infrastructure. Riders appreciate the smooth surface, city views, and the novelty of travelling above the motorway.
Many locals use the route daily for commuting and note how it provides a fast, safe link into the CBD while still offering visual interest at any time of day or night.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Public Art — Te Ara I Whiti: Official details on the artwork, dimensions, designers, and location.
OurAuckland — Tenth Anniversary: Council coverage of usage statistics and history of the Lightpath.
Auckland NZ Tourism: Visitor overview with photos and practical information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the path pink?
The hot-pink colour was chosen by the design team to create a strong visual identity for the repurposed off-ramp and references the heartwood of tōtara.
When is the best time to ride or walk it?
Dusk or after dark highlights the LED lighting system, while daytime offers clearer views of the city and Sky Tower.
Is it only for cyclists?
No, it is a shared path open to pedestrians as well. Cyclists should ride at moderate speeds and give way to walkers.
How does it connect to other routes?
It forms Stage 1 of the Nelson Street Cycleway, which links onward to Quay Street and the waterfront. At the northern end it connects to streets leading toward Ponsonby and Grey Lynn.
Is parking available nearby?
Street parking exists in surrounding areas, though most users arrive by bike from nearby suburbs or the CBD.
How long does it take to ride?
Most people complete the 640-metre path in a few minutes at a comfortable pace.
Is the path accessible at night?
Yes, the LED system provides excellent illumination and makes the route particularly engaging after dark.
Are there any restrictions?
The path is open 24 hours with no fees or bookings required. Standard road rules apply for shared use.
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