Join Auckland's Friendliest Walking Community
Explore Onehunga, Mangere Bridge, Te Papapa, One Tree Hill and Epsom with our free monthly walking challenges. Go at your own pace, discover cool local spots while out walking.
- Different walk each month
- Share your photos in our group
- Monthly themed challenges
- Family nature hunts
- Start here: Free sign up
Get your first walking map for this month.
We’ll email your map instantly.
How It Works
Getting started is as easy as putting on your walking shoes
Sign Up for Free
Join our community and get your first free map and start walking.
Get Monthly Routes
Each month we release a new loop walk designed by our team and tested by Rotary members. Download the map and start exploring.
Walk at Your Pace
Follow the loop route and go at your own speed. Take photos or just enjoy the peaceful walk.
Share Photos
Share your best photos in our Facebook group or via email, we'd love to see them.
New Walk Each Month
Share your best walking photos in our Facebook group
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This Month: Spring Awakening
September takes us to the Heart of Remuera Walk, down Auckland’s most elegant avenue to Wilson Beach, through mangroves on a boardwalk, and back via the peaceful Waiata Reserve gully. A 5km loop that’s perfect for shaking off winter.
🗓️ For the month of September 2026
How to Enter:
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- Join the Challenge and get this months map
- Snap photos on your walk that match this month’s theme
- Share them in our Facebook Group
- Or email them to: comp@joyofwalking.nz
- Our Facebook Group
Join Our Community
Connect with fellow walkers and share your Auckland adventures
Who’s Behind the Joy of Walking?
A community partnership between Rotary Club of Maungakiekie and Freewalks.nz
Your local Rotary club has been part of this community for over 50 years. We’re your neighbours, local business owners, and people who genuinely care about making our area an even better place to live.
Barry Stafford
Program Leader
“We wanted to create something that brings people together while encouraging them to see their local area with fresh eyes.”
New Zealand’s go-to website for quality walking routes. With over 600 walks across the country, they provide the professional digital platform management to make this program work seamlessly.
Sandra Tanner
Owner, Freewalks.nz
“We’re excited to partner with Rotary to bring walking to life in new ways. Our platform makes it easy to discover amazing walks, but Rotary’s community spirit makes it truly special.”
“It’s amazing what you notice when you slow down and really look around. We’re confident people will discover their neighbourhood has more hidden gems than they ever imagined.”
Barry Stafford, Rotary Club of Maungakiekie
FAQ
Do I need to be fit to join?
Not at all! Our routes are designed for all fitness levels. Start with what feels comfortable and go at your own pace.
Can I walk with friends and family?
Absolutely! Many people walk with partners, kids, or friends. The nature hunt is especially popular with families.
How long are the walks?Â
Each route takes about an hour, but you can take as long as you like. They’re loops, so you can start anywhere and always get back to your starting point.
When do new routes come out?
We release one new route each month. Each route is tested by our Rotary members before going live. You’ll receive an email at the beginning of each month with the new map once you’ve joined.
What if I can’t do the full route?
No worries! Turn back whenever you want. The point is to enjoy being outdoors, not to complete every walk.
How do I share my photos?
Share your walking photos in our Facebook Group or email them to us.
Do I have to use social media?
Not required! You can email photos if you prefer. The Facebook group is just an extra way to connect.
Is this really free?Â
Yes! No fees, no membership costs. The walks, maps and newsletters are completely free.Â