Orakei Basin

The Orakei basin is a volcanic maar formed after an eruption about 85,000 - 140,000 years ago. At first it was a fresh water lake which was then breached by the sea to form the tidal lagoon which is present today.

The trail around the basin is about 4km long and will take about 45-60 mins to complete. It’s about 70% off leash, with the boardwalk section over Orakei creek being on-lead.

The best place to enter the basin walkway is off upland road where you’ll start in the off leash area on the basin foreshore. This area is very flat and is a great space for the dogs to run around and even have a quick dip in the water. This area is popular with other dog owners so your dog will likely have a few friends to enjoy the space with.

From this area you can either go right or left to start the loop. There’s a few steep step and path sections on the loop track which is great exercise for your pup (and yourself). The boundaries between on and off leash are well sign-posted and it is a very pleasant walk - take a hat if it’s sunny, the boardwalk section doesn’t provide much side.

Location: Upland road, Remuera

Snowy’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Another one of Snowy’s top picks. A good central location which is a fantastic area for your dog to have a run about, a dip in the water and socialise with other pups. It’s also a very pleasant walk in it’s own right making it very popular with joggers.

✔️ Large flat off leash area
✔️ Good for your dog to have a quick dip
✔️ Great walk of good length (some sections are steep with steps)
✔️ Popular with other dog pawrents
✔️ Family friendly

⁵⁄₅: Great spot!

While we do our upmost to ensure all information is correct. Council policy does change and you should always check the council website for the latest guidelines.

This is a multi-part series where we review Snowy’s favourite dog walks in Auckland. View all the posts in the series here

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