Mount Eden vs One Tree Hill: Which Should You Climb?
Climb Maungawhau (Mount Eden) for the higher summit, the deep crater and the widest view in the shortest walk. Choose Maungakiekie (One Tree Hill) for a gentler, longer walk through parkland with more history and grazing sheep. Both are free.
Mount Eden vs One Tree Hill: which should you climb?
If you only have time for one and want the big view fast, climb Mount Eden. It is the highest natural point on the isthmus and the walk up is short and direct. If you would rather a relaxed wander through open parkland and care about history, One Tree Hill is the better day out. Many locals do both, since they are close together in the central suburbs.
What is Mount Eden like?
Maungawhau (Mount Eden) is the highest of Auckland's cones at 196 metres, with a striking grassed crater at the top and a full 360-degree view across both harbours, the city and out to Rangitoto. The climb from the lower car park takes around 15 to 20 minutes on formed paths. Vehicle access to the summit was closed in 2016 to protect the maunga, so everyone walks up now.
What is One Tree Hill like?
Maungakiekie (One Tree Hill) sits in Cornwall Park, a large working farm park with grazing sheep and avenues of mature trees. The cone is topped by a tall obelisk and the grave of Sir John Logan Campbell. The walk is longer but gentler, more of a stroll through parkland than a climb, and the surrounding park is a destination in itself with cafe, gardens and room to spread out.
Which has the better view?
Mount Eden has the edge for a clean panoramic view, since it is higher and the summit is open on all sides. One Tree Hill's view is excellent too and the obelisk makes a dramatic foreground, but the wider sweep belongs to Maungawhau. For sunrise or sunset photos of the city, Mount Eden is the usual pick.
Can you drive up either?
No to Mount Eden, where summit vehicle access was closed in 2016. One Tree Hill's summit road access has also been restricted to protect the maunga, so plan to walk both. The walking is the point, and neither takes long.
Both cones, mapped and explained
Volcanic AKL has the routes, history and viewpoints for Mount Eden, One Tree Hill and every other cone in the field. Works offline on the maunga.
Explore Volcanic AKLRelated: Best volcanic cones to walk in Auckland.