A 5 km loop walkway around the Hobsonville Point peninsula, starting from Boundary Road in Hobsonville, Auckland. The website describes it as almost flat, with boardwalk, footpath and graded gravel, and says it suits prams, bikes and scooters. The loop follows the shoreline, crosses the township from coast to coast, and passes several neighbourhoods, the Catalina Bay waterfront and bush-clad gullies. You can walk the whole loop or part of it. Harrier Point Park has a playground, a flying fox, a basket swing, picnic tables and barbecues. Dogs need a leash along the walkway because of bird breeding grounds, and the dog park at Te Onekiritea Point is fenced and off-leash. Toilets and disabled parking are at Catalina Bay, with public toilets at the Farmers Market and the Information Centre on Hastings Street.
The website says the name Te Ara Manawa was gifted by mana whenua, Te Kawerau a Maki and Ngāti Whātua o Kaipara, and means the pathway amongst the mangroves. Te Onekiritea is the traditional name for Hobsonville Point, and Te Onekiritea Point was once the site of New Zealand's largest Air Force explosives depot, with thirteen brick buildings around its perimeter. Reviewers describe stunning harbour views and a smooth, scenic stroll, and one counts it among the best walking trails in north-west Auckland, passing WWII-era bunkers and airfields. Our pick in Hobsonville for an easy harbour walk with the kids.