The Devonport Explorer cycle is a 9-kilometre loop through Devonport peninsula taking in its volcanic landscapes (Takarunga / Mount Victoria, Maungauika / North Head, Takararo / Mount Cambria) and three coastal beaches — Devonport, Duders, and Cheltenham. Bikes travel free on the Fullers ferry from Auckland CBD (12-minute crossing).
Practical Information
| Distance | 9 km loop |
| Difficulty | Moderate — peninsula’s volcanic cones add elevation |
| Three volcanic cones | Takarunga / Mount Victoria, Maungauika / North Head, Takararo / Mount Cambria |
| Three coastal beaches | Devonport Beach, Duders Beach, Cheltenham Beach |
| 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 9 km Devonport Explorer is the longer of the two main Devonport cycling loops, taking in more of the peninsula than the 6.5 km Highlights ride. The defining feature is the three volcanic cones the route traverses or skirts: Takarunga / Mount Victoria (the central Devonport landmark), Maungauika / North Head (the historic defence site at the harbour mouth), and Takararo / Mount Cambria. The elevation changes between these landforms add some challenge versus the easier Highlights loop, with both ascents and descents through the ride.
The coastal portion of the route passes three distinct beaches — Devonport Beach (at the central village), Duders Beach (a smaller bay), and Cheltenham Beach (the longer family-popular beach on the north-eastern side of the peninsula). Each gives a natural break opportunity.
The volcanic landscape and the beach views combine to make the route distinctive even for cyclists who’ve ridden the shorter Highlights loop — it’s a different experience rather than just a longer one.
Getting There by Ferry
As with the Highlights route, the Fullers ferry from downtown Auckland is the easiest access — 12 minutes across the Waitematā Harbour, with bikes travelling free. The peninsula’s compact layout means you can start riding immediately on arrival at Devonport Wharf.
Where to Learn More
Devonport Village — Walking & Cycling — local visitor information on cycling routes through the peninsula.
Bikemap — Devonport bike routes — community cycling-route directory with the Explorer loop and others.
Tūpuna Maunga Authority — Takarunga (Mt Victoria) — official cultural and history information for the Devonport peninsula’s main volcanic cone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the route?
9 km loop.
What’s the difficulty?
Moderate — the peninsula’s volcanic cones add some elevation, but the route is suitable for cyclists with reasonable fitness.
What are the three volcanic cones?
Takarunga / Mount Victoria, Maungauika / North Head, and Takararo / Mount Cambria.
What beaches does the route pass?
Devonport Beach, Duders Beach, and Cheltenham Beach.
How do I get to Devonport with my bike?
Fullers ferry from downtown Auckland — 12 minutes, bikes travel free.
For a shorter introductory ride see Devonport Highlights 6.5 km cycle.
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