Last updated July 2026
Gittos Domain is a 15-hectare coastal nature reserve in Blockhouse Bay, West Auckland, situated on a south-facing ridge above the Manukau Harbour. The reserve protects regenerating native vegetation including a strip of coastal broadleaved forest, kānuka scrub, and approximately one hectare of rare gumland habitat on its western side. It is managed by Auckland Council as a Biodiversity Focus Area, with ongoing weed and pest control to support ecological recovery. A gravel walking track known as Te Ara o Tiriwa follows the ridge and coastal edge, offering harbour views and taking around 45 minutes to complete as a loop.
Practical Information
| Location | Blockhouse Bay, West Auckland |
| Address | 572-578 Blockhouse Bay Road, Blockhouse Bay |
| Access points | Blockhouse Bay Road, Gill Crescent, Lewis Street |
| Entry | Free |
| Size | 15 hectares |
| Walk length | Approximately 1.6 km loop, 45 minutes |
| Difficulty | Moderate — gravel path with steps and steep sections |
| Facilities | Seating along track; no toilets on site |
| Dogs | Must be on leash at all times |
About Gittos Domain
Gittos Domain occupies a coastal ridge overlooking the Manukau Harbour. Historic records indicate the area was cleared for farming and a tannery established in 1882, with pine trees planted during that period. The vegetation today reflects ongoing regeneration following past clearance and possible fire events.
The reserve features a narrow strip of coastal broadleaved forest along the steep cliffs, young kānuka-dominated scrub across the inland slopes, and about one hectare of gumland on the western side. Gumland is a critically endangered ecosystem type in the Auckland region, supporting specialised native plants such as mānuka, tangle fern, mingimingi, and the grass-leaved greenhood orchid.
As a Biodiversity Focus Area, Gittos Domain receives prioritised conservation management. Auckland Council controls invasive weeds including Sydney golden wattle, hakea, brush wattle, pampas, gorse, and climbing asparagus to aid native regeneration.
The Walk: Te Ara o Tiriwa
The walking track, officially named Te Ara o Tiriwa, can be accessed from Blockhouse Bay Road, Gill Crescent, or Lewis Street. The mostly gravel path includes steps and steep sections in places, making it unsuitable for prams or wheelchairs. Seats are provided at intervals along the route. The loop offers scenic views over the Manukau Harbour through gaps in the coastal vegetation and typically takes 45 minutes to one hour to complete at a comfortable pace.
What Visitors Often Say
A peaceful shaded bush walk with harbour glimpses, suitable for a quick local outing on a hot day. The track has some steep parts and steps but feels rewarding for the effort.
Good for a moderate stroll through regenerating native bush. Limited parking and no toilets on site, so plan accordingly. Dogs are permitted on leash.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Gittos Domain: official park page with access details, rules, and facilities information.
Tiaki Tāmaki Makaurau — Gittos Domain: detailed ecological description, vegetation types, and biodiversity focus area context.
Auckland Council — Gittos Domain Path: track description and map.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Gittos Domain?
In Blockhouse Bay, West Auckland, with main access from Blockhouse Bay Road, Gill Crescent, and Lewis Street.
How long is the walk at Gittos Domain?
The loop is approximately 1.6 km and takes about 45 minutes to one hour.
Are there toilets at Gittos Domain?
No toilet facilities are available on site. Nearby options exist in the Blockhouse Bay town centre.
Is the track suitable for prams or wheelchairs?
No — the gravel path includes steps and steep sections.
Are dogs allowed at Gittos Domain?
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
What vegetation can I see?
Coastal broadleaved forest, regenerating kānuka scrub, and a small area of gumland supporting native orchids and other specialised plants.
What is the track called?
Te Ara o Tiriwa, also referred to as the Gittos Domain Path.
Is Gittos Domain a Biodiversity Focus Area?
Yes, it is prioritised by Auckland Council for conservation of its forest and gumland ecosystems.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.