Waterview Shared Path follows Te Auaunga (Oakley Creek) through the western suburbs of Auckland, connecting Phyllis Reserve in Mt Albert to Waterview along a wide, sealed, low-gradient path. Opened in 2017 alongside the Waterview motorway tunnel, it is one of the best family cycling routes in central-west Auckland — easy enough for young children, interesting enough for regular riders exploring the city’s growing cycleway network.
Practical Information
| Distance | 2.5 km one-way (5 km return) |
|---|---|
| Surface | Sealed concrete, wide shared path |
| Grade | Easy — low gradient throughout |
| Start | Phyllis Reserve, Mt Albert (corner Phyllis St & Harbutt Ave) |
| End | Waterview Reserve, Waterbank Crescent, Waterview |
| Parking | Harbutt Reserve (Phyllis St & Harbutt Ave); Waterview Reserve (Waterbank Crescent) |
| Facilities | Toilets and playground at Waterview Reserve |
| Dogs | Permitted on lead |
| Cost | Free |
About the Path
The Waterview Shared Path runs alongside the Waterview motorway tunnel — the longest road tunnel in New Zealand — but the path itself feels anything but industrial. It traces the natural corridor of Te Auaunga (Oakley Creek), crossing the stream multiple times via three bridges and two boardwalks, with the creek and riparian plantings creating a green buffer from the motorway below.
The path is 3.5 metres wide throughout, sealed concrete, and designed for mixed use — families cycling, walkers, and commuters moving between Mt Albert and Waterview. The gradient is gentle enough that even young children on bikes will manage the full length without difficulty.
Access from the northern end at Phyllis Reserve in Mt Albert puts you close to Unitec’s campus and local bus routes. The southern end at Waterview Reserve connects to the wider cycleway network, including links towards the Northwestern Cycleway and the Oakley Creek path.
Waterview Reserve
The southern end of the path at Waterview Reserve is worth exploring in its own right. The reserve includes a playground, BMX track, water play area, skatepark, volleyball and basketball courts, and public toilets — making it a useful endpoint for families who want somewhere to stop and let kids run around after the ride. Parking is available at Waterbank Crescent.
Connecting Onward
The Waterview Shared Path connects into Auckland’s wider cycling network. From Waterview Reserve you can link to the Northwestern Cycleway, which runs 20 km off-road from the city fringe to Westgate. The Oakley Creek path continues further along the creek corridor for walkers and riders looking to extend the trip. Together these routes form part of Auckland’s developing 50 km cycleway network connecting the city centre to the outer suburbs.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Transport — Cycling & Walking Paths shows how the Waterview Path connects to the wider Auckland cycling network.
Bike Auckland — Waterview Shared Path has community notes and route tips from regular cyclists.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Waterview Shared Path?
The main shared path is 2.5 km one-way, making a 5 km return trip. Connected paths along Oakley Creek and through Waterview Reserve extend the route further if you want to keep going.
Is the Waterview Shared Path suitable for children?
Yes. The path is sealed, wide, and has a low gradient throughout — it’s one of the better family cycling routes in central Auckland. The playground and facilities at Waterview Reserve at the southern end make it a practical family destination.
Where do I park for the Waterview Shared Path?
At the northern end, park at Harbutt Reserve on the corner of Phyllis Street and Harbutt Avenue in Mt Albert. At the southern end, parking is available at Waterview Reserve on Waterbank Crescent.
Is there a connection to the Northwestern Cycleway?
Yes — from Waterview Reserve at the southern end, you can connect to the Northwestern Cycleway, which runs approximately 20 km off-road from the city fringe to Westgate.
Are dogs allowed on the Waterview Shared Path?
Dogs are permitted on the path provided they are on a lead.
Is the path open at night?
The path is not lit and is not officially maintained for night use. It is best used during daylight hours.
For more Auckland cycling routes, see the full guide to cycling tracks in Auckland. Nearby on the western cycleway network: Northwestern Cycleway Auckland and Oakley Creek Ride.