As Tāmaki Makaurau moves to Alert Level 3, the Tūpuna Maunga Authority is redoubling its plea to Aucklanders to respect their Maunga.
The past five weeks have seen dramatically increased visits to the beautiful ancestral mountains, as the community gets outside to get some exercise and reconnect with nature.
The Tūpuna Maunga are among the best-preserved Māori volcanic pā sites in the Auckland region. They contain intact archaeology such as ancient kumara pits and midden - some are of the few remaining traces of early Māori life in Tāmaki Makaurau.
Mana Whenua welcome all Aucklanders to enjoy the Maunga. However, some people don’t know what’s appropriate on a wāhi tapu (sacred site) or what alert levels allow. They may inadvertently put themselves, other people and the Maunga at risk.
Of primary concern are dogs off leash, riding off formal tracks, and disrespect of kaimahi (workers).
The Authority calls for those exercising on the Maunga to adhere to the rules.
To avoid coming into close contact with someone else, owners should have dogs on a leash – even in areas where you can ordinarily walk your dog off-leash.
The Authority is progressively upgrading tracks on the Maunga. Please stick to the formal tracks and avoid using those that have been closed for upgrades or fenced off for restoration.
Walking and jogging on the formal tracks is fine. Bicycles are permitted on the Maunga roads only.
Sliding and cycling down the slopes of the Tūpuna Maunga are not permitted.
Our kaimahi are undertaking essential work at Level 3. At this stressful time, please remember that they are working to ensure you have a safe time while visiting the Maunga.
The Authority reminds the community to adhere to COVID-19 lockdown guidelines, e.g. maintaining a 2m distance from people outside your bubble. Playgrounds, seats, picnic tables and toilets on the Maunga are currently closed.
Read about access and services on the Tūpuna Maunga at Alert Level 3