Nelson Street Cycleway in Downtown Auckland
Located in Downtown Auckland, the Nelson Street Cycleway is a designated cycling path. The standout feature of this cycleway is the Lightpath Te Ara I Whiti, commonly known as the Pink Path. This section has a vibrant hot-pink surface and LED mood lighting, transforming an old motorway off-ramp into a creative urban space. While it only takes about 15 minutes to walk, the cycleway provides a fresh perspective on the Auckland cityscape.
Artistic and Cultural Features of the Lightpath
The Lightpath was designed by Monk Mackenzie Architects and LandLAB, in collaboration with artist Katz Maihi. It features a six-metre pou (land markers) created by Maihi, along with a large koru design at the northern end of the path.
As you travel along the cycleway, you'll also encounter a striking pōhutukawa flower sculpture. At the southern end, native plantings, including whau trees, add a touch of nature with clusters of white flowers that bloom in early spring.
Route and Nearby Attractions
Starting on Canada Street, near Karangahape Road and Upper Queen Street, the Lightpath runs down the west side of Downtown Auckland, following alongside the motorway from Upper Queen Street to Victoria Street West. While not a destination in itself, the cycleway is a worthwhile addition to any downtown walking circuit.
From the Victoria Street West end, you can easily access other parts of Downtown, including the Sky Tower, the Viaduct, Wynyard Quarter, Queen Street, the Art Gallery, Albert Park and Britomart.
How to Get There
.From Downtown, walk up Queen Street to K Road. Cross over K road and continue on Upper Queen St to Canada Street. Turn right, and you will see the start of the path in front of you.
