The streets come alive as you uncover Devonport’s unique role in New Zealand’s history.
The Devonport Audio Tour takes approximately 90 minutes to complete depending on your walking speed and how long you spend at each scenic location. Throughout the tour you will uncover:
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Picturesque Devonport village is great for exploring by foot. On the Devonport Audio Tour you will experience Devonport from three scenic perspectives:
Discover 27 Sites & Stories with a Devonport Audio Tour
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]]>The Maori history trail takes approximately two hours to complete but it is up to you to chose how long to spend at each location.
King Edward Parade
The history trail begins at Devonport Wharf, where you can catch a ferry to or from Auckland City. To your right as you exit the wharf you will see a large grassy area, named Windsor Reserve. Walk through the reserve and take the road along the sea to the right, King Edward Parade.
Tainui memorial
About a 15-minute walk towards the end of King Edward Parade you’ll come across a memorial on the right hand side of the road. Erected in 1959, the Tainui Memorial acts as a commemoration of the great waka Tainui. The Tainui was one of seven wakas that carried the first Maori from Hawaiiki to New Zealand. The memorial is a replica of the sacred bird image Korotangi (weeping dove) that was brought over on the waka Tainui.
Torpedo Bay
Continuing down King Edward Parade you’ll find Torpedo Bay below North Head. Known to Maori as Haukapua Beach, the Tainui waka was said to have landed at this very spot. Artefacts such as bones and tools have been found at this site demonstrating a presence of early Maori settlers. Haukapua beach was also the site of a serious battle between two Maori tribes- Ngati Paoa and Ngapuhi. Resident tribe Ngati Paoa was defeated by Ngapuhi who claimed the right to reside at this site in the 18th century.
Torpedo Bay Naval Museum Site
At the end of King Edward Parade you will see a large building, the Torpedo Bay Naval Museum. The site where the Torpedo Naval Museum stands today is likely to be one of the first campsites used by early Maori inhabitants before they settled around the wider North Shore area. In 2010 during excavation work, bones of the extinct native New Zealand bird the Moa and other Maori artefacts were found at this site. To get to your next destination To reach North Head walk along Cheltenham Road and turn right onto Takarunga Road. At the end of this road you will find the entrance to North Head.
North Head
North Head is known by the Maori as Maungauika and before European colonization was a defensive pā. Most pā are found on raised ground, a volcano being the perfect position for a pā. The purpose of a pā is to protect current food supplies and the fertile lands used to plant and grow food. Early photographs of the area show that Maori used the lower slopes of North Head for gardens. Interestingly, the fortifications and earthwork defences that can be observed on Auckland’s other volcanic cones are absent on North Head. This perhaps indicates that it was predominantly the foot of the hill that was used by Maori tribes.
After the arrival of Europeans North Head was developed as a means of protection from invasion with a military tunnel complex and gun emplacements. The last remaining Maori settlement in Devonport was found on North Head but was destroyed by rival tribes in the late 18th century. As well as historic links to the past, North Head is known for its stunning views of Rangitoto Island, the Waitemata Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf. See our North Head Historic Reserve Trail page for more details.
After exploring North Head come back down onto Takarunga Road, turn right onto Cheltenham Road and Take the first left onto Tainui. Walk along Tainui Road turning left onto Vauxhall Rd and take the first right onto Albert Road.
Grave of Chief Eru Patuone
Continue along Albert Road and just past the Lake Road roundabout to the left you will find the old Devonport cemetery. Inside is the grave of Maori Chief Eru Patuone (the peacemaker). Eru Patuone was born in 1764 and lived for over 108 years, until 1872. Patuone lived during the early years of Pakeha settlement in New Zealand and thus witnessed and played a key role in a number of events that shaped modern New Zealand.
Patuone was known as the peacemaker due to his relationships with both Maori and Pakeha and his role as a mediator between them. During his life Patuone had a relationship with all of New Zealand’s Governors and was consulted by them regarding Pakeha Maori relations. Patuone was particularly close with Governor Grey (who served two terms as governor in 1845 and again in 1861) and when all Maori were required by Grey to sign an oath and give up their arms or move out of the area, Patuone remained close by in Takapuna on land gifted to him by the Governor.
The upper slopes of Mt Victoria can be reached via a number of different grass trails, however these become more challenging in the winter months. To reach the main entrance of Mt Victoria come back out onto Albert road and continue walking, at the end turn left onto Victoria Road. Continue down Victoria Road and take the slight left onto Kerr Street. On the right you will find the main entrance to Mt Victoria, the highest volcanic cone on Auckland’s north shore.
Mount Victoria
Mount Victoria, known by Maori as Takarunga was originally the main pā in the Devonport area. Historically, Takarunga was occupied by a number of different iwi (group or social unit in Maori culture). Evidence of the mountain’s historical uses such as pā terraces and pits associated with food-storage and settlement areas can be seen on the northern slopes today. Since European settlement, Mt Victoria has been used for artillery emplacements, farmland and various concrete army bunkers. Today, Mount Victoria is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike with some of the best views in Auckland. The summit of Mount Victoria provides a panoramic scene of the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf unique to this viewing point.
After walking down Mt Victoria you will come back out onto Kerr Street. Continue along this street and turn left at the end onto Victoria Road, the heart of Devonport. You have now reached the end of the Maori History Trail. If time allows, stop for a well-deserved break at one of Devonport’s many cosy cafés or restaurants which line Victoria Road for refreshing drink or snack.
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Fort Takapuna, originally built as one of a number of new defence forts established around Auckland’s harbor. Fort Takpuna’s unique location at the head of the Rangitoto Channel made it an important lookout point and defence site for a number of years. The fort is below ground level as originally a dry moat surrounded the fort on all sides, with a drawbridge to provide access. Whilst the majority of the fort was filled in 100 years ago, the remaining elements are open left to explore.
Take a self-guided walk to explore the barracks, tunnels, gun pits and magazine inside the last of the New Zealand designed twin 6 inch gun forts. Learn more about the installations from information panels on the walls inside the fort wall.
Located next to Fort Takapuna is Narrow Neck beach, this picturesque location is perfect for photo taking, relaxing in the sun with an ice cream or cold drink from the neighbouring café, after exploring the military surroundings.
By Bus to Fort Takapuna from Victoria Road:
From Devonport’s high street, Victoria Road there are a number of bus stops to take the quick ten-minute 813 bus to Fort Takapuna en route to Narrow Neck. One of these is outside Bayley’s real estate agents opposite the Fish and Chips Café. Buses depart from this stop every hour from 10:16 am and every half hour from 3:16pm. For more information on bus routes please visit www.maxx.co.nz
On Foot to Fort Takapuna from North Head:
Walking (one way) to Fort Takapuna will take approximately half an hour and is a beautiful waterfront stroll. After exploring North Head take the north facing steps down the side of the mountain facing the Hauraki Gulf. At the bottom of the stairs you will come out onto Cheltenham beach, popular with locals and visitors for swimming, strolling and relaxing. Walk right along Cheltenham beach to the end and take the Bath Street exit to your left. To the left on Vauxhall road you will see a few shops and cafes. If you want to pick up some treats for a picnic visit one of Devonport’s best-kept secrets, Châteaubriant. Châteaubriant is an authentic French café with delicious flaky pastries, tarts, crusty baguette sandwiches and delicious coffee. Alternatively, turn right and walk along Vauxhall Road and up the hill; continuing along until you see a naval barrack. Next to the barrack is a large grassed area, overlooking the sea is Fort Takapuna.
After your time at Fort Takapuna you can either take the bus or walk back to the Devonport Wharf. The 813 bus departs from the far end of Narrow Neck beach every half hour starting at 9:56am and will take you right back to the ferry building. If you choose to walk, head back along Vauxhall Road, walk down the hill, continue past the set of shops and take a right onto Albert Road. Continue along this road, walk past the round about and at the end turn left onto Victoria Road. Walk along Devonport’s high street back towards the sea and you’ll find yourself, once again outside the Devonport Wharf.
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This trail takes between two and three hours to complete (more if you choose to visit Fort Takapuna), although it is up to you how long you wish to spend at each location.
Windsor reserve
The Military History Trail begins at Windsor Reserve, the park that is next to the Devonport Wharf. This park also goes by the name of Flagstaff due to its historical connections with the navy. The British navy landed at this site in 1840 and began the European settlement of Devonport. Originally, the park was home to a small naval unit with barracks, ship repair workshops and stores for gunpowder and later torpedoes. Today a large commemorative flagstaff and plaque can be seen near the waterfront acknowledging Windsor Reserve’s connections with the New Zealand Navy.
King Edward Parade
Walk through the Windsor Reserve past the children’s playground area and along King Edward Parade, historically the industrial and ship building centre of Devonport. A tramway used to run along King Edward Parade from Victoria Wharf. However, today the best way to explore this area is by foot.
Execution Site
Two minutes along King Edward Parade a plaque can be found on the right hand side overlooking the sea. It is here where Lieutenant Robert Snow (the first commander of the early naval depot), his wife and their two daughters were murdered and later Joseph Burns was sentenced to death. Burns, Snows former shipmate, was hanged for his capital crime and was the first European to be officially executed in New Zealand.
Arrival of the French
About a 15 minute walk towards the end of King Edward Parade you’ll find Torpedo bay below North Head, named after the torpedo boat based here in the 1890’s. At the far end of the bay a plaque commemorates the visit by the French corvette L’Astrolabe in 1827 and its commander, Dumont D’Urville. D’Urville landed here and climbed Mt Victoria to survey the harbour.
Torpedo Bay Navy Museum
At the end of King Edward Parade you’ll find Torpedo Bay Naval Museum. The perfect place to learn more about The Royal New Zealand Navy and its shared history with Devonport. The site of the museum is historical itself, developed in the 19th century as a part of Auckland’s coastal defence network. Inside these heritage buildings are a number of excellent displays and one of New Zealand’s largest collections of naval history resources. Explore a range of artefacts from personal journals to naval instruments and nautical charts, the museum is a true site for discovery and education. Torpedo Bay Navy Museum is family friendly with educational activities available for children and has an onsite café, which is the perfect place for a coffee break (for further details).
After exploring the museum continue your walk up to the North Head Historical Reserve for stunning views and unique links to Devonport’s military past. To reach North Head walk along Cheltenham Road and turn right onto Takarunga Road. At the end of this road you will find the entrance to North Head.
North Head
North Head is a volcanic cone and originally a Maori defensive pā before European colonization. A military tunnel complex and gun emplacements were built here during 1885 and North Head features one of the few remaining disappearing guns in the world. The military installations date from 1888 and were built to protect Auckland from a feared Russian invasion, with additions made for WW1 and WW2. The reserve is well signposted with numbered descriptions and orange markers. As well as links to the military, North Head is known for its stunning views of Rangitoto Island, the Waitemata harbour and the Hauraki Gulf. (for further details).
After exploring North Head your next stop is Mt. Victoria, Devonport’s highest volcanic cone.
To Mt Victoria from North Head:
After walking back down North Head continue back along the waterfront of King Edward Parade the way you came. When you reach Windsor Reserve turn right onto Victoria Road and walk up Devonport’s high street. If you need a quick break or some retail therapy, Victoria Road is lined with boutique shops and cosy cafés. Near Victoria Picture Palace (the earliest purpose built cinema still in existence in the southern hemisphere) Victoria Road turns slightly towards the left, however, you want to take the road to the right- Kerr Street. Across the road and on the left of Kerr Street you will see the main entrance up to Mt Victoria. Follow the road upwards to reach Mt Victoria.
Signalman’s house
On Mt. Victoria’s upper slopes you will find the Signal House, which in the past was used to inform residents about the arriving and departing ships. Many houses in the Devonport area were built to provide a direct line of site to the signal station so the inhabitant’s could easily read the flags. Whilst the first signalmen lived in a tent or hut, later a Victorian styled villa was built to house the signalman and his family. The last signalman to live in this villa passed away in 1943. Today the Signalman’s House is the Michael King Writer’s Centre which both supports and promotes New Zealand literature.
Mt Victoria
Mt. Victoria is the highest of Devonport’s volcanic cones, first occupied by a Maori pā (Maori village or defence settlement) and later developed by Europeans as a means of protection from invasion. Evidence of the mountain’s historical uses such as pā terraces and pits, and one of Devonport’s disappearing guns can still be seen on the slopes today. Historically, Mt. Victoria has been used for artillery emplacements, farmland and various concrete army bunkers. One bunker is now home to the Devonport Folk Club. With some of the best views in Auckland, the top of Mt Victoria provides a panoramic scene of the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf, unique to this viewing point (for further details).
If you are short on time you can finish the Military History Trail here. Walk back down Mt Victoria and you will come out onto Kerr Street. Continue down this street and turn left at the bottom of the road back onto Devonport’s high street, Victoria Road. Make your way down Victoria Road and you will find yourself back at Devonport Wharf where you can take a 12 minute ferry ride back to Auckland City.
If time permits, a trip to Fort Takapuna is a fantastic way to end the Military History Trail. Fort Takapuna is a lookout point and bunker defence site and the last of the New Zealand designed twin 6 inch gun forts in existence. Fort Takapuna can be reached by bus from Victoria Road or on foot from North Head.
By Bus to Fort Takapuna from Victoria Road:
Walk back down Mt Victoria and you will come out onto Kerr Street. Continue down this street and turn left at the bottom of the road back onto Devonport’s high street, Victoria Road. On the right hand side of Victoria Road there are a number of bus stops that will take you to Fort Takapuna. One of these is outside Bayley’s real estate agents opposite the Fish and Chips Café. From here take the quick ten-minute 813 bus trip to Fort Takapuna. Buses depart from this stop every hour from 10:16 am and every half hour from 3:16pm. For more information on bus routes please visit www.maxx.co.nz
On Foot to Fort Takapuna from North Head:
Walking (one way) to Fort Takapuna will take approximately half an hour and is a beautiful waterfront stroll. After exploring North Head take the north facing steps down the side of the mountain facing the Hauraki Gulf. At the bottom of the stairs you will come out onto Cheltenham beach, popular with locals and visitors for swimming, strolling and relaxing. Walk right along Cheltenham beach to the end and take the Bath Street exit to your left. To the left on Vauxhall road you will see a few shops and cafes. If you want to pick up some treats for a picnic visit one of Devonport’s best-kept secrets, Châteaubriant. Châteaubriant is an authentic French café with delicious flaky pastries, tarts, crusty baguette sandwiches and delicious coffee. Alternatively, turn right and walk along Vauxhall Road and up the hill; continuing along until you see a naval barrack. Next to the barrack is a large grassed area, overlooking the sea is Fort Takapuna.
Fort Takapuna
Your final destination is Fort Takapuna, originally built as one of a number of new defence forts established around Auckland’s harbor. Fort Takpuna’s unique location at the head of the Rangitoto Channel made it an important lookout point and defence site for a number of years. The fort is below ground level as originally a dry moat surrounded the fort on all sides, with a drawbridge to provide access. Whilst the majority of the fort was filled in 100 years ago, the remaining elements are open left to explore. Take a self-guided walk to explore the barracks, tunnels, gun pits and magazine inside the last of the New Zealand designed twin 6 inch gun forts. Learn more about the installations from information panels on the walls inside the fort wall.
Located next to Fort Takapuna is Narrow Neck beach, this picturesque location is perfect for photo taking, relaxing in the sun with an ice cream or cold drink from the neighbouring café, after exploring the military surroundings.
After your time at Fort Takapuna you can either take the bus or walk back to the Devonport Wharf. The 813 bus departs from the far end of Narrow Neck beach every half hour starting at 9:56am and will take you right back to the ferry building. If you choose to walk, head back along Vauxhall Road, walk down the hill, continue past the set of shops and take a right onto Albert Road. Continue along this road, walk past the round about and at the end turn left onto Victoria Road. Walk along Devonport’s high street back towards the sea and you’ll find yourself, once again outside the Devonport Wharf.
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The trail is a must-do for history buffs or those wanting to further explore the unique and fascinating history of the seaside village. The walk includes visiting two volcanic cones, providing perfect photo taking opportunities, with one of a kind views of Rangitoto Island, the Waitemata Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf.
You will also come across iconic Devonport buildings, showcasing the Victorian architectural features found throughout the village. Devonport is also home to a number of historic sites and memorials dedicated to commemorating Devonport’s unique part in New Zealand history. Download the history trail PDF to read about the trail in further detail.
The trail takes between two and three hours to complete, although it is up to you whether you spend more or less time at certain locations.
Flagstaff
The history trail begins at Devonport Wharf, where you can catch a ferry to or from Auckland’s CBD. Across the road to the right is Windsor Reserve, traditionally named Flagstaff due to its connections with the navy. It is here that the British navy landed and began the European settlement of Devonport in 1840. To mark the significance of this location a commemorative flagstaff and plaque can be observed near to the waterfront.
Boer war Arch memorial
Continue onto King Edward Parade, historically the industrial and ship building centre of Devonport and will find the Boer war Arch commemorating the fallen soldiers of the Boer War. The Arch beautifully frames the picturesque views of Auckland city and is a favourite for photographers.
Elizabeth House
On the left two identical and linked villa style buildings (Elizabeth House) can be found. The Navy originally used these as accommodation for the Women’s Royal NZ Navel Service and visitors can rent an apartment in this building for accommodation today.
Execution site
Further along King Edward Parade on the right hand side a public execution site can be found in this picturesque location overlooking the sea. It was near this area that Joseph Burns, the first European to be officially executed in New Zealand, both committed and was later hanged for his capital crime.
Ship building plaque
During the 19th century Devonport became the most important shipbuilding area in the North Island, if not New Zealand as a whole. Along the waterfront of king Edward Parade a plaque can be found to commemorate the shipbuilders who worked on this shore.
The Masonic Hotel
On the corner of Church St and King Edward Parade you’ll find one of New Zealand’s oldest Taverns, The Masonic. The Masonic was built in 1866 originally as a seaside resort, whilst today the Masonic is the perfect place to have a meal and take in the sea views. The Tavern is a unique heritage building symbolic of Devonport’s past.
Tainui memorial
Erected in 1959, Tainui Memorial can be found on the right hand side next to Torpedo Bay as a commemoration of the great waka Tainui. The Tainui was one of seven wakas that carried the first Maori from Hawaiiki to New Zealand. The memorial is a replica of the sacred bird image Korotangi (weeping dove) that was brought on the waka Tainui.
Arrival of the French
Further along a plaque commemorates the visit by the French corvette L’Astrolabe in 1827 and its commander, Dumont D’Urville, who climbed Mt Victoria to survey the harbour.
Torpedo Bay Naval Museum
At the end of King Edward Parade, Torpedo Bay Naval Museum is the perfect place to learn more about The Royal New Zealand Navy and its shared history with Devonport. The site of the museum is historical itself, developed in the 19th century as a part of Auckland’s coastal defence network. Inside these heritage buildings are a number of excellent displays and one of New Zealand’s largest collections of naval history resources.
Continue your walk up to the North Head Historical Reserve for stunning views and links to Devonport’s military past.
North Head
North Head is a volcanic cone and previously a Maori pā before European colonization. A military tunnel complex and gun emplacements were built during 1885 and North Head features some of the few remaining disappearing guns in the world. As well as links to the military, North Head is known for its stunning views of Rangitoto Island, the Waitemata harbour and the Hauraki Gulf. After exploring North Head walk along the pretty streets of Tainui Road turning left onto Vauxhall Rd and take the first right onto Albert Road. This leads you to Mt Victoria- another volcanic cone and spectacular view point.
See our North Head Historic Reserve Trail page for more details.
The grave of Eru Patuone
Just past the Lake Road roundabout you will find the old Devonport cemetery. Inside is the grave of Maori Chief Eru Patuone (the peacemaker). Eru Patuone was born in 1764 and lived for over 108 years, until 1872. Patuone lived during the early years of Pakeha settlement in New Zealand and thus witnessed and played a role in a number of key events that shaped modern New Zealand. Patuone was known as the peacemaker due to his relationships with both Maori and Pakeha and his role as a mediator between them. During his life Patuone had a relationship with all of New Zealand’s Governors and was consulted by them regarding Pakeha Maori relations.
The upper slopes of Mt Victoria can be reached via a number of different grass trails, however these become more challenging in the winter months. To reach the main entrance of Mt Victoria come back out onto Albert road and continue walking, at the end turn left onto Victoria Road. Continue down Victoria Road and take the slight left onto Kerr Street. On the right you will find the main entrance to Mt Victoria, the highest volcanic cone on Auckland’s north shore.
The signalman’s’ house
Walking further up Mt Victoria on its upper slopes you will find a signal station, which in the past was used to inform residents about the arriving and departing ships. Many houses in the Devonport area were built to provide a direct line of site to the signal station so the inhabitant’s could easily read the flags. Whilst the first signalmen lived in a tent or hut, later a Victorian styled villa was built to house the signalman and his family. The last signalman to live in this villa passed away in 1943.
Mount Victoria
Mt. Victoria is the highest of Devonport’s volcanic cones, first occupied by a Maori pā (Maori village or defence settlement) and later developed by Europeans as a means of protection from invasion. Evidence of the mountain’s historical uses such as pā terraces and pits, and one of Devonport’s disappearing guns can still be seen on the slopes today. With some of the best views in Auckland, the top of Mt Victoria provides a panoramic scene of the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf, unique to this viewing point.
Victoria picture palace
After walking down Mt Victoria you will come out onto Kerr Street Continue along this street and turn left at the end onto Victoria Road, the heart of Devonport. Almost immediately on the left hand side you will come across Victoria Picture Palace.
Built during the silent movie era, the Victoria Picture Palace is the earliest purpose built cinema still in existence in the southern hemisphere. The picture palace has changed ownership several times throughout its life, and is now leased by the Victoria Theatre Trust who intends to maintain the cinema and performance venue.
BNZ bank vault – Patriot
Remaining on the left hand side and walking down towards the water you will see The Patriot, Devonport’s only British themed pub. The pub is situated in the historic Bank of New Zealand building, with its original safe vault as a focal point of the main room. Its historic setting and atmosphere provides the perfect place to enjoy a cold drink or snack.
Post office building
The building on the right next to the Patriot is Devonport’s old post-office building. The art deco styled building was purpose built and used as a post office until the early 1980’s when it was sold to house a museum. Although the old post office has recently undergone a major transformation to create retail and office spaces, the building has maintained its historical integrity and remains an iconic building of Devonport village.
The Esplanade Hotel
At the foot of the right hand side of Victoria Road you will come across the Esplanade hotel, a large cream building. Built in 1903 and modeled on English seaside hotels of the time, the Esplanade has been beautifully restored making it an icon of Devonport village. Opposite the Esplanade you’ll find yourself back at the Devonport Wharf where you take a quick ferry ride back to Auckland City.
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Flag Staff
The Devonport Village Walk begins at the Devonport Wharf, where you can catch a ferry to or from Auckland city. On the right of the Wharf building you will see Windsor Reserve, a beachfront park traditionally named Flagstaff due to its historical connections with the navy. It is here that the British navy landed in 1840 and began the European settlement of Devonport. To mark the significance of this location, a commemorative flagstaff and plaque can be seen near the waterfront.
Old Albert- The Moreton Bay Fig Tree
Continuing up Victoria Road (the village’s high street) you will come across a small park which is home to Devonport’s historic Moreton Bay Fig Tree. Over 100 years old, this towering tree was planted in 1883 and is affectionately known as ‘ Old Albert’.
Peace and Plenty Inn
For those wanting to try something a little bit different whilst in Devonport, take a slight detour to the right onto Flagstaff Terace. Here you’ll find the Peace and Plenty Inn. This five star luxury Victorian villa offers a unique experience, Victorian High Teas on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Truly indulge yourself with homemade scones, pastries, sandwiches and other delicious treats.
Post Office Building
Turning right back onto Victoria Road you will see Devonport’s old post-office building. The large yellow building was purpose built and used as a post office until the early 1980’s when it was sold and used to house a museum. Today, the art deco styled building houses a number of retail stores and has remained an iconic building of Devonport village.
Patriot – BNZ Bank Vault
Next door to the old post office is The Patriot, Devonport’s only British themed pub. The pub is situated in the historic Bank of New Zealand building, with its original safe vault as a focal point of the main room. The sunny beer garden provides the perfect place to enjoy a cold drink or share some locally famous fat chips in the warm summer months.
Victoria Picture Palace
Continuing up Victoria Road to the right, a large white building stands- the Victoria Picture Palace. Built during the silent movie era, the Picture Palace is the earliest purpose built cinema still in existence in the southern hemisphere. Here walk up Kerr Street and cross the road. On the right you will see the main entrance to Mt Victoria, the highest volcanic cone on Auckland’s North Shore. There are other entrances around the sides of Mt. Victoria which are a good way to further explore the mountain in the dry summer months.
Signalman’s house
The top of Mt Victoria can be reached by foot in approximately 10-20 minutes. The upper slopes are home to a signal station, which in the past was used to inform residents about the arriving and departing ships. Whilst the first signalmen lived in a tent or hut, later a Victorian styled villa was built to house the signalman and his family. The last signalman to live in this villa passed away in 1943. Today the Signalman’s House is the Michael King Writer’s Centre which both supports and promotes New Zealand’s literature.
Mount Victoria
Mt. Victoria, named after Queen Victoria, is the highest of Devonport’s volcanic cones. Be sure to bring your camera, the top of Mt Victoria provides a panoramic scene of the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf, unique to this viewing point. The mountain was once a Maori pā (Maori village or defence settlement) and later developed by Europeans as a means of protection from invasion. Evidence of the mountain’s historical uses such as pā terraces and pits, and one of Devonport’s disappearing guns can still be seen on the slopes today. After exploring Mt Victoria make your way back down the slopes and onto Kerr Street. Continue downwards along this street and turn left at the end back onto Victoria Road.
Boutique styled shops
If you have time, browse Devonport’s wide range of crafts, gifts, fashion and jewellery stores which line the village’s high street. It’s the perfect place to find a unique gift for someone or a treat for yourself. Many of the lower buildings on Devonport’s high street were erected in the late 1880’s after a fire destroyed the original wooden ones.
Old Telephone Exchange Building
Whilst walking down Victoria Road take the first turn to the right- Clarrence Street. On the left hand side you will see the Devonport Stone Oven Bakery and Café. This building used to be home to Devonport’s old telephone exchange, where telephone calls were connected. Today, this café is the perfect place to stop for a coffee and freshly baked cake or pastry.
Devonport Chocolates
Continue down Clarence Street and take the first turn on the left- Wynyard Street. Almost immediately on the right hand side of the road you will come across a heaven for chocolate lovers. Devonport Chocolates is a chocolate boutique which hand makes delicious gourmet creations on site. Sample unique New Zealand flavours such as feijoa or horopito (a New Zealand herb) and take a peak into the chocolate kitchen to observe the chocolate being made.
Art Galleries
Continue down Wynyard Street towards the waterfront and turn left back onto Queens Parade. Here you’ll find two art galleries: Peter Raos Glass Gallery and Art of this World. See the work of worldwide acclaimed glass artist Peter Raos and purchase a special memento of your time in New Zealand. Further down get a taste of contemporary New Zealand art at Art of This World.
The Esplanade
On the corner of Queens Parade and Victoria road you will see the Esplanade hotel, a large cream building. Built in 1903 the Esplanade was modeled on English seaside hotels of the time and has a truly charming character. Today the Esplanade provides boutique hotel accommodation with stunning seafront views.
Fish and Chips on the beach
Congratulations, now back at the ferry terminal you have completed the Devonport Village Walk. A popular activity before heading home is enjoying fish and chips on the beach with stunning sea views – a true Kiwi experience.