Looking for a way to get the kids out of the house, off their screens, and burning off some serious winter energy? We are challenging your whānau to conquer Auckland’s most iconic volcanic cones these school holidays!

Auckland is built on a field of over 50 dormant volcanoes. Climbing them offers a mix of Māori history, epic 360-degree views, and plenty of space to run around.

Here is your family guide to 5 of the best peaks to tackle, complete with all the details you need to plan your mission.

1. Maungawhau / Mount Eden

As the highest natural point on the Auckland mainland, this is a must-do. The massive 50-metre-deep crater (Te Kāhu o te Rangi) is awe-inspiring for kids of all ages.

• The Vibe & Views: Incredible 360-degree views of the city skyline, the Sky Tower, and both harbours.
• Facilities: There is an excellent, modern visitor centre and café at the base, clean toilets, and a fantastic wooden playground located nearby at Tahaki Reserve (at the foot of the mountain).
• Parking & Directions: The summit road is closed to private vehicles to protect the ancestral site. Park at the Maungawhau Visitor Centre car park (off Puhi Huia Road) or along adjacent side streets, and enjoy the short, pram-friendly walk up the boardwalks to the top.

2. Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill

This is one of the largest former Māori fortifications (pā) in New Zealand and is surrounded by the beautiful Cornwall Park.

• The Vibe & Views: Sweeping views across Auckland, complete with grazing sheep and cattle that make you feel like you've left the city completely. Look out for the iconic stone obelisk at the summit.
• Facilities: This is a jackpot for facilities! There are multiple world-class playgrounds (including a massive one near the driving range), BBQ sites, public toilets, and the Cornwall Park Bistro and Café for a warm hot chocolate reward.
• Parking & Directions: Accessible via Green Lane West. You can find multiple free car parks throughout Cornwall Park. While the summit road is closed to cars, the walk up from the main playground is a gentle, scenic incline.

3. Takarunga / Mount Victoria (Devonport)

If you're on the North Shore, this is your local giant. It has a rich military history that kids love exploring.

• The Vibe & Views: The absolute best view of the Auckland CBD skyline across the Waitematā Harbour. Look out for the whimsical painted "mushroom" vents scattered across the grassy slopes!
• Facilities: While there isn't a playground directly on the mount, the iconic Devonport beach front playground is just a 5-minute walk away at the bottom. Toilets are available near the summit.
• Parking & Directions: Located right in Devonport. You can park at the base along Kerr Street and walk up. The walk is short but steep, completely paved, and filled with old military bunkers to look at.

4. Te Pane-o-Mataoho / Māngere Mountain

One of Auckland’s best-preserved volcanic cones, featuring two large craters and a rich cultural landscape.

• The Vibe & Views: Stunning views over the Manukau Harbour and the surrounding historic stone fields. It feels like stepping back in time.
• Facilities: Right at the base sits the Māngere Mountain Education Centre. Next door is a spectacular, culturally themed playground featuring skate parks, flying foxes, and standard play equipment, alongside public toilets.
• Parking & Directions: Head to Māngere Bridge and park at the Māngere Mountain Education Centre car park off Centreway Road. The tracks up to the crater rim are grassy and well-marked.

5. Maungauika / North Head (Devonport)

Though not the highest peak, it is arguably the most exciting for kids because it is riddled with old military tunnels and gun emplacements.

• The Vibe & Views: Front-row views of Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf.
• Facilities: Tunnels to explore (bring a torch!), massive green spaces for rolling down hills, and public toilets. Excellent playgrounds are nearby at the Devonport waterfront.
• Parking & Directions: Drive to the end of Cheltenham Road in Devonport. There is a car park halfway up the mount, making it incredibly accessible for little legs.

🎒 Quick Tips for the Peak Challenge:

• Pack Torches: Essential for exploring the old fort structures at North Head and Mount Victoria.
• Dress in Layers: The summits can get incredibly windy and cold in July, even if the sun is shining!
• Take the Photo: Don't forget to take a family selfie at the summit of each peak to track your progress.

🎁 SHARE YOUR SUMMIT SELFIES & WIN! 🎁 Did your whānau successfully conquer a peak? We want to celebrate with you! Share your family summit selfies or track-conquering photos on Facebook or Instagram to inspire other local parents. Make sure to tag our page and use the hashtag #AKLVolcanoChallenge in your post. Just by sharing your adventure, you’ll go in the draw to win one of a couple of $25 vouchers to a local business of your choice. Show us those views!

Which peak is your family going to cross off the list first? Let us know in the comments! 👇

Looking for more ways to fill the school holidays after your volcano challenge? Challenge the family to a game of holiday Bingo, head out to celebrate Matariki, or simply get cosy indoors with our Winter Warmer ideas.