Last updated May 2026
Gittos Domain is a nature reserve in Blockhouse Bay, West Auckland, occupying a coastal ridge above Manukau Harbour. The reserve protects a strip of coastal broadleaved forest, regenerating kānuka scrub, and an area of gumland on its western side — vegetation types that are increasingly rare in urban Auckland. A walking track of around 45 minutes follows the ridge and coastal edge with views over the Manukau Harbour, and the reserve is managed by Auckland Council as a Biodiversity Focus Area.
Practical Information
| Location | Blockhouse Bay, West Auckland |
|---|---|
| Access points | Blockhouse Bay Road, Gill Crescent, and Lewis Street |
| Entry | Free |
| Walk length | Approximately 1.6km loop, 45 minutes |
| Difficulty | Moderate — gravel path with steps, steep in sections |
| Facilities | Seating along track; no toilets on site |
About Gittos Domain
The reserve sits on a coastal ridge overlooking the Manukau Harbour on the western side of Blockhouse Bay. Its vegetation reflects the geology of the site — the coastal edge supports a narrow strip of broadleaved coastal forest typical of sheltered harbour margins, while the inland slopes carry regenerating kānuka-dominated scrub and forest recovering after historical clearance. The western section of the reserve has approximately one hectare of gumland — a habitat type associated with old kauri forests and now rare in the Auckland region.
Gittos Domain is classified as a Biodiversity Focus Area by Auckland Council, meaning it is a prioritised ecological site that guides conservation delivery across Tāmaki Makaurau. Weed and pest management is carried out to support the ongoing regeneration of native vegetation.
The Walk
The walking track can be entered from Blockhouse Bay Road, Gill Crescent, or Lewis Street. The path is mostly gravel and includes steps and some steep sections — it is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs. Seating is provided at points along the track. The ridge route offers views over the Manukau Harbour, with the harbour visible through gaps in the coastal vegetation. The loop takes approximately 45 minutes at a comfortable pace.
Where to learn more
Auckland Council — Gittos Domain: official park page with access information and reserve details.
Auckland Council — Gittos Domain Path: track description and map.
Tiaki Tāmaki Makaurau — Gittos Domain: ecological significance and biodiversity focus area context.
FAQ
Where is Gittos Domain?
In Blockhouse Bay, West Auckland. The main access points are from Blockhouse Bay Road, Gill Crescent, and Lewis Street.
How long is the Gittos Domain walk?
Approximately 45 minutes for the loop, covering around 1.6km. The path has steps and some steep sections — moderate difficulty.
Are there toilets at Gittos Domain?
No — there are no toilet facilities on site. Nearby facilities are available in the Blockhouse Bay town centre.
Is the track suitable for prams or wheelchairs?
No — the gravel path includes steps and steep sections that make it unsuitable for prams or wheelchairs.
What can I see at Gittos Domain?
Coastal broadleaved forest, regenerating kānuka scrub, an area of gumland, and views over the Manukau Harbour from the ridge.
Gittos Domain is one of the coastal nature reserves in the Auckland parks and reserves network. For another Manukau Harbour coastal reserve, see the guide to Waikōwhai Park in Onehunga.
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