One Tree Hill Domain

If you want to ramble through wide green spaces, head for One Tree Hill. One Tree Hill Domain and the neighbouring Cornwall Park together form the largest area of parkland in Auckland city.

Maungakiekie is the largest and most complex volcanic cone fortress in the southern hemisphere. It has hundreds of living terraces, food store pits, defensive ditches and banks that for centuries supported a population of 5,000 people. From the tihi, signallers would communicate with the network of volcanic Pā across Tāmaki.

Sir John Logan Campbell, who is buried on the summit, gave the name One Tree Hill to Maungakiekie. He was inspired by the sacred Totara he saw on his first visit here in 1840. Te Totara i Ahua was cut down as part of the colonisation of Auckland during the 1850s and 60s. Campbell attempted to replace the Totara however only a single Monterey Pine survived. The tree was damaged after successive attacks by Maori protesters, and was eventually felled for safety reasons in 2001.

Today, the superb parkland fanning out from the hill is grazed by sheep and cattle. As you walk or drive around the parks you can enjoy beautiful stone walls, wizened olive groves, avenues of oaks and a kauri plantation.

You can also explore the extensive walkways, or relax with friends at the picnic and barbecue areas.

Entries to One Tree Hill Domain and Cornwall Park are off Manukau Road at Royal Oak; Greenlane West and Campbell Road.

Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill is the central place of the Tamaki isthmus and is the largest and most intact volcanic cone (excluding Rangitoto).

The 183 metre volcano has three caters and a lava field that extends to the Manukau shoreline. It was the largest and most intensively settled pa in Auckland, and was the centre of the Maori occupation during the 18th century when tribes of the region were united under the paramount chief Kiwi Tamaki. It is also associated with many of Auckland's influential figures including Sir George Grey and John Logan Campbell. Its status in history and the present day is widely recognised. Its central location within the region and easy access from the main transport routes makes it an immensely popular destination.

The overall size of the reserve together with it's predominantly pastoral character make it a 'country in the city' retreat for urban dwellers. One Tree Hill Domain forms part of the very significant cultural landscape of Maungakiekie, which also includes Cornwall Park. Together the two distinct parts form the largest area of public open space in Auckland and one of the most important areas of land in Auckland that has been modified by human occupation and use for several centuries. The park has an excellent playground and extensive city views from the summit.

Facilities include:

Barbecue (contained within Cornwall Park), playgrounds, flying fox, pergola, tables, drinking fountains, bikestands, toilets and a skate park.

No dog exercise area.