Fort Takapuna Historic Reserve
Introduction
Fort Takapuna's commanding position at the head of the Rangitoto Channel in the Hauraki Gulf has made it an important lookout and defence site for hundreds of years, first for early Maori inhabitants and later for European settlers.
Features
Fort Takapuna was built as part of the network of defensive forts that was established in the late 1800s to defend Auckland from a feared Russian invasion. Features of the fort included twin six inch disappearing guns, an underground magazine, barracks, observation posts, and engine room and searchlights.
Fort Takapuna Historic Reserve, looking
towards the Officers Mess
The fort is below ground level as it was originally surrounded by a dry moat. Most of the fort was filled in 100 years ago, but part of the fort remains and can be explored.
As well as exploring the fort, Fort Takapuna Historic Reserve is a great place to picnic, walk your dog and enjoy stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
Location
Fort Takapuna is located next to Narrow Neck beach on Auckland's North Shore.
Getting there
Fort Takapuna
Ferries run regularly between downtown Auckland and Devonport. Contact Fullers for more information: www.fullers.co.nz or +64 9 367 9111.
Fort Takapuna is a 40 minute walk from Devonport. From Devonport follow King Edward Parade along the waterfront, turn left into Church Street and right into Vauxhall Road. Alternatively, catch the bus to Takapuna via Narrow Neck.
Activities
Dog walking
Historic sites
No dogs are allowed on the reserve between 9am and 7pm from the Saturday of Labour Weekend to Easter Monday. Find out more about dog access on conservation land.
Things to see and do:
- Walking
- 19th and 20th Century millitary sites
- Self-guided walk
- Picnicking
- Harbour/Hauraki Gulf views
Plan and prepare
'Progressive Fern Jars' by Christine
Hellgar, part of the NZ Sculpture on
Shore exhibition at Fort Takapuna
There are steep drop-offs along the coastal cliff top and around some of the historic structures. Take care when exploring the reserve and supervise children at all times.
- Ensure your dog is kept under control at all times and any dog litter is removed.
- There are no toilets on the reserve. Facilities are available in Narrow Neck Reserve.
- Do not light fires.
- Do not remove or disturb any artefacts or other historic remains.
- Do not camp on the reserve.
Non-compliance with these conditions may result in prosecution.