Takarunga Mt Victoria provides a basic introduction to the military history of the Devonport peninsula. But it is the extinct volcano of Maungauika North Head that really tells the story. This was a major military facility from the 1890s to WW2. Multiple gun emplacements from across the period surround the headland, including a photogenic arrangement of restored older guns facing across the Waitemata Harbour towards Auckland City.
In addition, there are extensive barracks, lookouts, an old underground engine room area, and accessible old military tunnels. Plus, it has the best views back downtown at sunset, across Rangitoto, and towards Waiheke and the Coromandel. From the north side of the top, there is also a fabulous view down Cheltenham Beach.
Although the more accessible Maungawhau Mt Eden will always be our number one go-to viewpoint for Auckland, Maungauika North Head has the advantage of prime water position and historical features. It also sits astride the North Shore Coastal Walk / Te Araroa.
