Exploring Pipeline Road and Slip Track
Pipeline Road, located in the Waitākere Ranges, is part of Watercare’s private road network, supporting the area's water reservoirs and dams. This road stretches from Huia Road to Lower Nihotupu Dam Road. While a gate marks its entrance, you can walk along it to connect with the Slip Track, which ascends steeply to the Arataki Visitor Centre on Scenic Drive. This route combines a view of the Auckland water transport infrastructure with a beautiful forest walk.
Walking the Pipeline Road and Slip Track
The walk begins at the intersection of Huia Road, Exhibition Drive and Pipeline Road. The initial stretch may seem uneventful until you encounter the large pipeline, a key component of the water transport network.
As you transition to the Slip Track, the scenery transforms with denser forest regeneration typical of the Waitākere Ranges. The track features numerous steps and crosses an old tramway once used for hauling kauri logs a century ago, adding a historical element to the walk.
Creating a Loop with Beveridge Track
Consider extending your walk by incorporating the Beveridge Track. This creates a loop that starts and finishes at the Arataki Visitor Centre, and provides a varied and engaging exploration of the area.
How to Get There
To access Pipeline Road, take Woodlands Park Road from Scenci Drive in Titirangi for 2.4 km, then follow Huia Road until you see the sign at the intersection wth Pipeline Road and Exhibition Drive. You can also walk Exhibition Drive for about 50 minutes. The walk from the start of Pipeline Road to Arataki takes around 1 hour. If you plan to complete the loop with the Beveridge Track, allow a total of 2 hours.
Other walks in the area include the Zig Zag Track in Titirangi and the Aratakai Nature Trail.
