Looking for a fun and active day out with the kids? This 10 km route from Panmure Statepark to Pigeon Mountain is a fantastic option for families. The path is safe, mostly flat, and filled with exciting stops including playgrounds, bridges, wetlands, and even model trains and boats. It’s perfect for walking or cycling, with plenty of chances to rest, play, and learn along the way.
Key Trip Metrics
- Distance: 10 km (walk or cycle)
- Time: Around 3–4 hours with stops
- Starting Point: (A) Panmure Statepark
- Finish Point: (G) Pigeon Mountain
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (mostly flat with a few gentle slopes)
- Highlights: Playground fun, model trains and boats, birdwatching, history spots, and outdoor games
Let's look at the details.
(A) Panmure Statepark – The Starting Point
The adventure begins at Panmure Statepark, a good spot to check your bikes or stretch your legs. Kids will love starting off in the open space, and parents can set the pace for the journey ahead.
To start the trip ,here is a “scavenger hunt” challenge for you: spot three different types of trees before leaving the park!
(B) Auckland Society of Model Engineers & Scale Marine Modellers
Just a short ride or walk away, you’ll find a hidden gem: miniature trains and model boats. This is a highlight for many families, especially if there are demonstrations running. It’s a great chance for kids to learn about engines, watercraft, and engineering in action.
(C) Jubilee Bridge, Panmure
The Jubilee Bridge is more than just a way to cross the Tamaki River—it’s a little slice of history. Built to replace the original swing bridge, it has long connected the communities of Panmure and Pakuranga. Kids might find it fun to know that the first bridge here used to swing open to let boats through! Today, the Jubilee Bridge is a well-loved landmark, offering great views of the river and a chance to pause and watch the boats go by.
Question: Why are there two tall frmas connecting the ends of the bridge?
Crossing the road after the bridge is the trickiest part of the whole journey, especially with kids on bikes. Take your time here: always use the pedestrian crossings, wait for the lights, and keep to the footpath until everyone is safely across. This is a great moment to teach children about road safety—looking both ways, listening for traffic, and crossing together. Once across, you’re rewarded with access to the other side of the river and the next exciting part of the trip.
(D) The Leith Menzies Pontoon
This floating pontoon is a real highlight for kids because it wobbles gently with the water — just enough to feel exciting but still safe. It’s the perfect place for families to pause, look out over the Tāmaki River, and snap a few fun photos. Standing here, children get to experience the river in a different way, right at water level, instead of just looking from the shore.
Right beside the pontoon is the campus of Saint Kentigern College, one of Auckland’s well-known private schools. It’s worth taking a moment to admire the grounds from the outside — kids can learn that schools come in all shapes and sizes, and some even sit right by the river! This little stop gives both a sense of play and a peek into local community life.
(E) Farm Cove Reserve & Snakes and Ladders Park
This stop is always a hit with children! The Snakes and Ladders Playground brings the classic board game to life with slides, ladders, and climbing features that kids can explore. It’s the perfect place for little adventurers to burn off some energy, enjoy a snack, and maybe even challenge each other to a “real-life” game of snakes and ladders. If you’re lucky, you might also spot boats on the water from the Pakuranga Sailing Club, which often runs events nearby.
The small beach by the reserve is a great spot to peek at marine life along the shore — a fun mini science stop for curious kids. After your refreshment break, continue along the Bramley Drive Rotary Walkway. This wide, flat coastal path is excellent for bikes, scooters, and strollers, making it easy for families to enjoy. Along the way, keep an eye out for shorebirds on the mudflats — see how many different species you can spot!
(F) Pigeon Mountain Wetland
Near the end of the journey, you’ll pass through Pigeon Mountain Wetland, where kids can spot ducks and other birds. It’s also a chance to learn about the importance of wetlands for protecting wildlife and filtering water.
(G) Pigeon Mountain – The Big Finish!
The trip finishes at Pigeon Mountain, a volcanic cone that makes a rewarding final stop. Families can enjoy a picnic, play on the grass, or—if energy allows—walk up to the top for stunning views of the surrounding area.
Question: What time did Pigeon Mountain erupt? Can you see where the lava came from?
Final thoughts
This 10 km route isn’t just a walk or bike ride—it’s a full day of play, discovery, and learning. Every stop has something unique to offer, from science and history to pure playground fun. Whether you’re a local family or just visiting Auckland, this adventure will keep kids excited and engaged from start to finish.