One Tree Hill Hike

One Tree Hill is a dormant volcano located in Cornwall Park. One Tree Hill is also known as Maungakiekie which is the Māori language name that means “mountain of the kiekie vine”. The One Tree Hill name came from a lone tree that used to sit atop the hill. The tree is no longer there because it was cut down in a protest. There are many ways to hike to the top of One Tree Hill, but this out and back trail is the most direct. The trail is paved in sections and dirt in other sections. This hike is 1.1 miles long and gains 252 feet of elevation.

The One Tree Hill Hike starts from a parking area off of Michael Horton Dr. There are bathrooms and water fountains at the trailhead. Begin hiking south on a paved path. Hike uphill for 0.2 miles. Then you will pass by Cornwall Park Bistro and Huia Lodge. Huia Lodge is a great place to stop and learn about the history and ecology of One Tree Hill and Cornwall Park. 0.1 miles later, you will pass over a cattle guard and head left onto a dirt trail.

Continue uphill for 0.1 miles before encountering a fence and using the step to go over the fence. You now should be able to see the top of One Tree Hill and the obelisk that is a memorial to the Māori. After 0.1 miles, you will come to a gate. Pass through the gate and follow the paved path to the summit. In addition to the obelisk at the top, you will find the grave of Sir John Logan Campbell. He donated the land that became Cornwall Park. There is also a grouping of six trees at the top of the hill. 9 trees were planted here in 2016. Eventually, the strongest tree will remain and become the lone tree at the top. The summit of One Tree Hill also has spectacular views of Ragitoto Island and many of Auckland’s other dormant volcanoes. Retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.

Cornwall Park is open for hiking year-round from 7am to 6pm. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are allowed on this trail as long as they are on a leash. The One Tree Hill Hike is a fantastic way to experience one of Auckland's historical landmarks.