Exploring Huia in the Waitākere Ranges
Located on the road to Little Huia and Whatipu in the Waitākere Ranges, Huia may not be the most visually striking of the Waitākere beaches, but it has its own unique charm. The bay features a large sand and mud flat that becomes exposed at low tide. This creates a perfect opportunity to walk to the bay's edge and capture stunning photos of the small town and surrounding bush reflected in the flats.
Points of Interest Around Huia
While in Huia, there are a few notable spots to explore. As you descend the hill into the township, a viewpoint offers a sweeping vista over Huia and towards the Manukau Heads. At the west end of the beach, you'll find a couple of beautiful old pōhutukawa trees. If you venture around the cliffs at the east end of the bay, you might spot young kauri trees growing right on the edge.
Discovering Little Huia
Continuing down the road, you'll reach Little Huia, known for its prominent rocky peak called Te Kā-a-Maki / Jackie Hill. The Māori name Te Kā-a-Maki means “the fire of Maki” and refers to Maki, the eponymous ancestor of Te Kawerau ā Maki iwi. According to iwi tradition, Maki lit a fire on this hill to signal his presence and gather his people. This place was a strategic lookout and signal point, due to its expansive views over the Manukau Harbour.
The name Jackie Hill is thought to derive from a local European settler or possibly from a misinterpretation of the original Māori name, but the exact origin is unclear.
At low tide, a small beach and numerous rock pools are revealed, providing a delightful area to explore. Fishing from the roadside is also a popular activity when the tide is in.
Getting to Huia and Little Huia
To reach Huia from Downtown Auckland, take the western motorway to the Point Chevalier off-ramp and head south on Route 19. Continue south on Route 24 in New Lynn to Attkinson Road. This road continues south and crosses Scenic Drive in Titirangi, then connects with Huia Road, which takes you to Huia.
Nearby, you can also explore Cornwallis Beach, Kaitarakihi Point with views over the harbour and Huia, the Karamatura Track and Whatipū, known for its dramatic landscapes and walking tracks.
