Howick Activities and Attractions You Can’t Miss
A southwestern suburb of Auckland, Howick and Half Moon Bay are a world of their own boasting cultural heritage, village charm and amazing coastal views. Howick and Half Moon Bay feel like quaint villages with charming buildings to admire and peaceful coastal scenery.
Experience the best of the area on one of the many walking trails or spend more time outside playing golf on one of Auckland’s most scenic golf courses. Find out more about the local attractions in this list of things to do in Howick and Half Moon Bay!
If you’re looking to explore more of the South Auckland area, then don’t miss towns like Waiuku, the gateway to the Awhitu Peninsula or Pukekohe just moments away from State Highway 1.
Table of Contents
1. Do the Mangemangeroa Valley Walkway
One of the best natural spots in the Howick area is the Mangemangeroa Reserve with estuary rich with wildlife. Take the Mangemangeroa Valley Walkway to truly experience this amazing area, passing through native bush, wetlands and estuarine landscapes.
Well-maintained tracks follow the Mangemangeroa Stream, connecting Somerville and Shelly Park through restored native planting areas.
You’ll discover spots rich in pre-European history along the way, making it more than just a simple walk. The whole walk is three hours one way from the reserve to Cockle Bay.
Location: Mangemangeroa Reserve, along Somerville Road.
© MrNetworker on Wikipedia2. Take the Ferry to Auckland Central or Waiheke Island
Half Moon Bay has its very own ferry terminal making for some quick escapes to wildly different areas of Auckland. Take the passenger ferry to Auckland Central to experience the city culture, cafes and parks.
Alternatively, there is a vehicle ferry regularly departing for Waiheke Island, known for its vineyards, beautiful beaches and laidback island life.
Find out more about these destinations in 10 Things to Do in Auckland and 10 Glorious Things to Do on Waiheke Island.
Location: Ara-Tai Road, Half Moon Bay.
© Pixabay3. Explore Howick Historical Village
An absolute must is the charming Howick Historical Village! This open-air museum brings 19th-century settler life to life across several hectares of beautifully recreated colonial New Zealand.
Wander through restored homes, a quaint schoolhouse, church and blacksmith workshop, all carefully preserved to transport you back in time.
The village even hosts “live days” where costumed staff bring the colonial era to life, offering interactive demonstrations of traditional crafts and daily routines.
Location: Bells Road, Lloyd Elsmore Park.
© Pseudopanax at English Wikipedia4. Shop at the Howick Village Market
Shop like they used to back in the old day at the Howick Village Market (yes, really, there’s a town crier and everything)!
This lively, community-focused market brings locals and visitors together every Saturday morning to browse fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts and tasty street food.
With free tastings and a charming village atmosphere, it’s a great way to experience the local flavour of East Auckland. The Howick Village Market takes place every Saturday, 8 am-12:30 pm.
Location: 91 Picton Street.
© ja ma on Unsplash5. Play a Round of Golf
Play golf with a view on the Bucklands Beach Peninsula! The 5,454 m (5,965 ft) course at the Howick Golf Club is a great way to spend an afternoon in Howick, whether you’re a local or a visitor.
Set among rolling greens with coastal views, the well-maintained course offers an enjoyable yet challenging layout that keeps things interesting for all skill levels. The well-equipped golf club has all the gear you will need.
All you have to do is relax, have fun and take in the views while playing on fun yet challenging fairways. Add this golf course to your bucket list, as well as the Top 5 Golf Courses in Auckland!
Location: 32 Musick Point Road, Bucklands Beach.
© David Goldsbury on Unsplash6. Walk the Musick Point Walkway
Speaking of the Bucklands Beach Peninsula, an alternative activity in the area is walking the Musick Point Walkway, otherwise known as the “Secret Walkway”.
This scenic headland offers easy walking paths with panoramic views over the Hauraki Gulf, including Rangitoto Island.
The open grassy spaces and gentle slopes make it perfect for a relaxed stroll or picnic beside the golf course. At the end of the walkway is Musick Point and the Musick Point Memorial.
Location: Musick Point Road, Bucklands Beach.
© russellstreet on FlickrMore Things to Do Near Howick & Half Moon Bay
That’s it for our guide to the best things to do in Howick and Half Moon Bay; for more information about exploring Auckland’s eastern suburbs and beyond, check out the following articles:
- 20 Auckland Parks You Can’t Miss
- 20 Vineyards & Wineries on Waiheke Island
- The 10 Best Islands in Auckland to Visit
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Auckland.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2025])
- DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
- Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Discover Auckland (Regional tourism website)
- Auckland Council (Local council website)
- Hauraki District Council (Local council website)
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
