Discovering Spragg Bush Track
Located about 5 km along Scenic Drive, past Parkinson Lookout, Spragg Bush Track is an excellent introduction to the Waitākere Ranges. The forest on this track is particularly jungle-like, with some good-sized kauri trees. The track features several interconnected short paths and also connects to the Fairy Falls Track.
Navigating the Track
Spragg Bush Track can be accessed from two points along Scenic Drive. The first entry is just after Mountain Road, heading northwest, with parking available in a grassed area beside the road. The second entry is a bit further along, with an unmarked parking area on the verge, almost directly opposite the track entrance. Both entries are poorly signposted, so Topo Map is recommended to avoid confusion.
Exploring the Forest
The track takes about an hour to complete at a leisurely pace and features mostly flat terrain. As you walk, you'll encounter a mix of mature native trees and dense, jungle-like regrowth. The kiekie climbing shrub is particularly prominent, with many tangled examples visible along the way. Among the native trees, you'll find three mature kauri trees, one of which is notably large and situated right next to the track.
Historical Highlights
One of the tracks passes a modest white picket fence. This marks the first cemetery in the region, now gradually being reclaimed by the regenerating forest.
How to Get There
To reach Spragg Bush Track from Downtown Auckland, take the Western Motorway to the Lincoln Road off-ramp. Head south towards Henderson on Lincoln Road, then turn west onto Universal Drive. This takes you to Swanson Road, then to Scenic Drive. Follow Scenic Drive for about 5 km past Parkinson Lookout. Look for the first track entry just after Mountain Road, where you can park in a grassed area. Alternatively, continue a bit further to find the second entry, with parking available on the verge opposite the track entrance.
Other nearby places include the Large Kauri Tree, Cutty Grass Track, Rose Hellaby House, Waitākere Reservoir and Pukematekeo.
