Local Discoveries: Cornwall Park & One Tree Hill
Want to explore more of Cornwall Park? Here’s what locals love about this amazing place.
The Discovery Hub – A Hidden Gem
If you’re wandering around Cornwall Park and spot Huia Lodge, pop inside to the Discovery Hub. It’s like finding a local’s secret stash of the best stuff about the park – and it’s all free.
Barry from our Rotary team discovered some fantastic resources here. As you walk in the main entrance, turn left and you’ll see a wall display holder across from the counter. That’s where you’ll find:
- Heritage Sites Map – 12 fascinating historical spots with gorgeous photos
- Tree Map – Shows you exactly where to find 26 different tree species (including 9 native ones!)
- Park Map – Everything you need to know about facilities and what’s where
- Events Guide – What’s happening each season
Opening Hours:
- 7am to 9pm – Summer
- 7am to 7pm/8pm – Spring/Autumn
- 7am to 6pm – Winter
- Cost: Free (seriously!)
A Poet’s View of Auckland
Here’s something that might make you see Auckland differently: Back in 1891, famous writer Rudyard Kipling called our city “Last – Loneliest – Loveliest.” As you walk up One Tree Hill and look out over the city, think about what he meant. How has Auckland changed since then? What would he think of it now? It’s a fun thing to ponder while you’re catching your breath at the summit.
What’s On Right Now
Cornwall Park Sneakerholics Exhibition
Until November 29, 10am-4pm at the Hub
This quirky exhibition explores how sneakers have changed the way we walk since 1860. Perfect if you’re curious about the shoes on your feet!
Trading Cards for Kids
During school holidays, kids can collect Cornwall Park trading cards at Huia Lodge. The staff there are lovely and kids get a real kick out of it.
Join a Guided Walk
The park regularly runs gentle guided walks – some focus on the heritage stories behind old postcards, others take you through the working farm or explore spring flowers with botanists. There’s even something called “forest bathing” if you want to try a more mindful approach to being outdoors.
Most need booking ahead at cornwallpark.co.nz, but they’re usually reasonably priced or free.
Afternoon Concerts
The old band rotunda hosts regular concerts – everything from steel drums to traditional bands. Grab some fish and chips, bring a blanket, and enjoy music in one of Auckland’s most beautiful settings.
Tree Spotting Made Easy
With 26 different tree types, Cornwall Park is perfect for amateur botanists. The Tree Map from the Discovery Hub shows you exactly where to find everything from massive Pohutukawa trees to delicate cherry blossoms.
Spring is particularly good for this – you’ll spot new growth everywhere and the different leaf shapes become really obvious.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Practical stuff: There are clean toilets near the restaurant, plenty of picnic spots, playgrounds if you’ve got kids, and free parking that’s actually easy to find.
Quiet spots to discover: The Olive Grove is peaceful, Twin Oak Drive often has families of pheasants (kids love this), and the views from the Memorial Steps are worth the climb.
Local tip: The area near the archery club has some interesting volcanic rock formations – and kids might spot what locals playfully call “magic fairies” in the ferns if they’re very quiet.
Ready to explore? Download this month’s walking map and see how much more you can discover beyond just the basic route.