Mount Wellington｜A Scenic Spot to View Volcanic Terrain on the Edge of the City

📍 Location Panmure, Auckland (Southeast Auckland) Also known as Maungarei, it is the fourth highest volcanic cone in the Auckland region. ⸻ 🚗 Transportation • Train: Take the train (Eastern Line) from Britomart Station in the city center to Panmure Station. From there, it’s about a 15–20 minute walk to the base of the mountain. • Bus: Take a bus to Panmure Interchange, then either walk or transfer to a shuttle. • Driving or Uber: Navigate directly to "Mount Wellington Summit Track" or "Maungarei Springs." There is a free parking area at the base (limited spaces). ⸻ 📝 Personal Experience If you’re looking for a less touristy spot to enjoy panoramic views of Auckland, Mount Wellington is a great choice. While it’s not as famous as Mount Eden, it’s quieter and retains the original volcanic crater landscape. From the summit, you can see the eastern suburbs, Tamaki River, and the distant Rangitoto Island. The trail to the top isn’t very long—about 10–15 minutes to reach the summit. The slope is moderate, making it a relaxing place for a stroll. On windy days, be mindful of your hat as it might get blown away (speaking from personal experience 😅). However, the feeling of being surrounded by the wind and the expansive view is truly refreshing. If you visit on a sunny day, I recommend coming in the late afternoon or early evening. The sunlight slanting over the eastern suburbs gives the hill a golden glow. Overall, it’s a lesser-known Auckland gem that’s worth spending half a day exploring.