What to do in Howick
Discover the stories behind this beautiful seaside village, where heritage charm meets relaxed coastal living. From historic sites to hidden local favourites, Howick offers something for every kind of traveller.
We’ve created a personal guide to our favourite Howick spots, carefully curated for our guests. Inside, you’ll find our top recommendations for cafés, coastal walks, beaches, markets, and unique local experiences – all the places we love and think you will too.
Whether you’re here to unwind, explore, or simply enjoy the slower pace, our guide will help you experience Howick like a local.
Pigeon Mountain
A 10-minute drive to panoramic views from an ancient volcanic cone – now a quiet reserve overlooking East Auckland, with a short but steep walk to the top.
Howick Village is the heart of this city
Explore Howick Village for shopping, cafes, art and entertainment. The friendly locals love the quaint seaside surrounds of Howick Village. As well as boutique shops, great dining and coffee, and all of the essentials – there are professional business services and healthcare experts. Add the market every Saturday and you have a delightfully different place to visit. See you soon.
Exploring East Auckland at Your Own Pace
There are several enjoyable walking routes ideal for those with limited mobility who still want to get outdoors. East Auckland is fortunate to have many flat, well-formed paths set among beautiful surroundings – from native bush reserves and wetlands to white-sand beaches, parks and ponds. Most of these walks are suitable for wheelchairs and prams, and all can be shortened to suit individual needs.
Walks: Halfmoon Bay, Musick Point & Mellons Bay
Half Moon Bay: 1.2km path and raised walkway from the marina cafés to Bucklands Beach, with views of the Tāmaki Estuary, Rangitoto Island and the marina. Keen walkers can continue to Musick Point or along the Rotary Walkway.
Musick Point: 1km from the road end, returning along the road (shared with traffic and golfers), offering expansive views across the Hauraki Gulf and its islands.
Mellons Bay: Up to 700m each way from the beach carpark and toilets. A concrete and boardwalk path winds through shady native bush, including kauri, past wetlands and a charming fairy garden to Haseler Crescent.
Walks: Pakuranga, Cascades & Golflands
Pakuranga: Up to 7km one way along the Rotary and Wakaaranga walkways. A gently undulating coastal route following the estuary and wetlands. Take care around cyclists on bends.
Cascade Walkway: 1.6km from Botany Road to Meadowlands, following the stream with gentle rises and dips.
Golflands: 600m linking Corta Bella Place Reserve, Frank Nobilo Park, West Fairway Park and The Green Park, with gentle slopes through green spaces.
Walks: Whitford-Omana Regional Park
Whitford Village Green: A 500m shaded loop with grassy picnic areas.
Ayrlies Wetlands: A 1.6km flat gravel and boardwalk loop through wetlands, rich with birdlife. Free to access and separate from Ayrlies Gardens.
Beachlands to Ōmana: 4.5km one way. Parts of Ōmana Regional Park and all of Ōmana Beach are flat and easy walking.
Estuary Views & Open Skies at Mangemangeroa Walkway
Mangemangeroa Reserve offers a peaceful coastal escape just a short drive from Howick and surrounding suburbs. The well-maintained walkway winds alongside the Mangemangeroa Stream, opening out to expansive estuary views, rolling farmland and native plantings. It’s a gentle, scenic walk that feels far removed from the city, yet remains easily accessible for visitors looking to stretch their legs and enjoy fresh air.
The track includes boardwalks, gravel paths and open grassed sections, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, you may spot birdlife around the wetlands, enjoy wide views across the water, or simply take in the quiet rural atmosphere. It’s an ideal outing for guests wanting a relaxed nature walk close to home.
A Glimpse into Howick's Early Days
The Prospect of Howick building was constructed in 1854 as one of the original Fencible settler cottages in the developing Howick settlement. Built from locally sourced timber, it served as both a family home and part of the early defensive network established to protect Auckland.
Today, the restored building forms part of Howick Historical Village, offering visitors insight into mid-19th century colonial life and the daily experiences of early European settlers in the area.
Howick Historical Village
Step back in time at Howick Historical Village, one of Auckland’s most charming living history attractions. Set among heritage buildings and tree-lined streets, the village recreates life in a mid-19th century colonial settlement. Costumed staff and volunteers bring the past to life with traditional crafts, cooking demonstrations and stories from early settler days, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Located in East Auckland, the village offers a relaxed and educational outing, with beautifully preserved cottages, a schoolhouse, church and general store to explore. Regular live days, markets and special events add extra atmosphere, while the peaceful grounds make it easy to wander at your own pace. It’s a wonderful way to experience a slice of Auckland’s history in an immersive and family-friendly setting.
Howick Wharf - A Glimpse into the Past
In the early days of Howick, the wharf at Howick Beach was a vital connection between the small coastal settlement and the wider Hauraki Gulf. Before dependable road links, steamers and small boats regularly called in, delivering supplies, mail and visitors. The wharf supported trade and travel, helping the young community grow and stay connected with Auckland and beyond.
Today, although the original structure has long since disappeared, history still lingers. At low tide, the old timber footings can sometimes be seen emerging from the sand and mud – quiet reminders of the bustling jetty that once stood there. These weathered remains offer a tangible link to Howick’s maritime past and a glimpse into a time when life revolved around the rhythms of the sea.