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On-leadEasy

Karaka Path

Papakura · Auckland · Loop

↑ 16 m gain↓ 18 m descenthigh 16 msteepest 4 %
DISTANCE3.4 km
ASCENT16 m
DURATION0.5–1 hr
STEEPEST4 %
ROUTELoop
RATING · HIKERS 4.6 · 73
DOG EFFORT1.6 /5 paws
PARKING250 m away
DirectionsApple MapsForecast at the trailheadDownload GPXSend the start point to your phone
Nearest emergency vetManukau After Hours Veterinary Clinic (Night Vet), Auckland~10 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)
09 277 8383
The route

Good to know

On the lead here. Keep it to two metres or less and watch for ground-nesting birds, as on most NZ tracks.

Beach swimOpen track, carry water for the dogPaw-friendly sealed surfaceGood with kids

About Karaka Path

Karaka Path is a loop of 3.4 km, near Papakura in Auckland.

Graded easy, it climbs about 16 m overall, pitching up to 4 % at its steepest, and takes about 0.5–1 hr to walk.

The track takes in beach walking and big views. Dogs are welcome here on the lead. Hikers rate it 4.6 / 5 across 73 reviews.

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Karaka Path?

Dogs are welcome on Karaka Path on a lead. Keep the lead at two metres or less and watch for ground-nesting birds.

How long is Karaka Path?

Karaka Path is 3.4 km with roughly 16 m of climb and takes about 0.5–1 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Karaka Path?

Yes, the track has beach access where a dog can cool off. In warm months check the LAWA water quality map for toxic algae warnings first.

DOC dog-access rulesGear checklist for dog hikes

Hikes nearby

The closest dog-friendly tracks to this trailhead, by straight-line distance.

Longford Park Path

EasyTakanini
1.1 km↑7 m0.5–1 hr★4.2 rating
Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Southern Bridge Walk

EasyTakanini
2.6 km↑14 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating
Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Pahurehure Esplanade Path

EasyPapakura
3.7 km↑20 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating
Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Conifer Grove Short Loop

EasyTakanini
3.1 km↑20 m0.5–1 hr★4.8 rating
Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

More in Auckland

Wattle Downs North Path

EasyAuckland
4.0 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating
Swim spotShadeSealed underfootGood with kids

Wattle Downs South Path

ModerateAuckland
8.5 km↑25 m1.5–2 hr★4.7 rating
Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Welsey Bay Loop Walk

ModerateAuckland
1.6 km↑77 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating
Swim spotShade

See every dog-friendly track in Auckland →

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