Key Takeaways
- Many walking and hiking tracks in Auckland are still closed due to damage from Cyclone Gabrielle and the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Weekend weather events.
- Some popular tracks, such as the Zig Zag Track and Ahu Ahu Track in the Waitākere Ranges, are expected to reopen in 2026.
- The Auckland Domain’s Lovers Lane track is also set to reopen in 2026 after being closed for nearly three years.
- The repair work has been delayed due to the complexity of the projects, funding issues, and the need for rigorous consenting processes.
- Some residents are frustrated with the lack of progress and communication from the Auckland Council.
Introduction to the Issue
Nearly three years have passed since the devastating floods of Cyclone Gabrielle and the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Weekend, and many of the region’s walking and hiking tracks are still closed due to damage. The Auckland Council has not provided a clear timeline for when the damaged tracks will be repaired, leaving many residents frustrated and eager to return to their favorite walking spots. The council has announced that several popular tracks, including the Zig Zag Track and Ahu Ahu Track in the Waitākere Ranges, will be restored by 2026.
Impact on the Community
The closure of the walking tracks has had a significant impact on the community, with many residents missing their regular walks and hikes. Stephen French, the founder of the tramping group Feet First, has had to take his group to other locations outside of Auckland, such as the Waikato, due to the lack of available tracks. French expressed his sadness and frustration at the situation, stating that there were once over 200 tracks open in the Waitākere Ranges, but now only about 20 are available. The closure of the tracks has also affected local residents, such as Bethny Uptegrove, who has been waiting for the Auckland Domain’s Lovers Lane track to reopen.
Repair Efforts and Progress
The Auckland Council has been working to repair the damaged tracks, with some progress being made. The council has announced that the Zig Zag Track and Ahu Ahu Track in the Waitākere Ranges, as well as the Lookout and Quarry Tracks in Muriwai, will be restored by 2026. The Waitākeres Fairy Falls Track was also recently restored, but had to be shut again due to a fire in October 2025. The council has also been working to repair the Auckland Domain’s Lovers Lane track, which is expected to reopen in 2026. The track has been closed for nearly three years due to slips, path surface and stability issues, and stairway damage.
Challenges and Delays
The repair work has been delayed due to the complexity of the projects, funding issues, and the need for rigorous consenting processes. Martin Wong, the parks and community facilities operations manager, explained that the work done on the Auckland Domain’s Lovers Lane track has been extensive and required a rigorous consenting process. The council had to seek specialist planning advice, input from an archaeologist and Heritage New Zealand, and a cultural assessment from mana whenua. The council also had to engage an arborist to assess requirements for tree protection and an ecologist to determine measures to ensure lizards present in the area were not impacted.
Future Plans and Reopenings
The Auckland Council has announced that several tracks are set to reopen in 2026, including the Smyth Ridge and Kuatiaka Tracks, which connect Anawhata Beach Track to Long Road Track, and the Zion Hill Track. These tracks were initially closed in 2018 to manage the spread of kauri dieback disease and have been upgraded to meet the standard required to reopen. The council is prioritizing the completion of these tracks to ensure they are open for visitors during the peak summer months. Local residents, such as Shelagh Coop, are pleased that the tracks are getting an upgrade and are looking forward to being able to use them again.
Conclusion and Community Response
The closure of the walking tracks has been a frustrating experience for many residents, but the Auckland Council’s efforts to repair and restore the tracks are welcomed. The community is eager to see the tracks reopen and are looking forward to being able to enjoy their favorite walking spots once again. While there have been delays and challenges, the council’s commitment to prioritizing the completion of the tracks is a positive step forward. As the tracks begin to reopen, the community will be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities that Auckland has to offer.