Discovering Fossil Point at Takapuna Beach
Fossil Point is located at the northern end of Takapuna Beach on the North Shore of Auckland, directly below the campground. This intriguing site is part of the North Shore Coastal Walk, also part of Te Araroa. As you begin your walk, you might initially see a typical rocky point and a small strip of sand. However, as the tide recedes, a fascinating sight emerges: the fossilised remains of an ancient kauri forest.
A Glimpse into the Past
The kauri forest at Fossil Point was buried approximately 150,000 years ago during the Pupuke eruption. This eruption created the nearby Lake Pupuke, an ancient volcanic crater. Over time, erosion has revealed a series of small arches formed where lava flowed over logs. Visitors can also observe fossilised tree stumps, some of which still display tree rings and contain interior rock pools.
Informative Signage
For those interested in learning more about the geological history of Fossil Point, an informative sign is located beside the walkway. This sign provides detailed explanations of the site's features and the processes that led to their formation.
How to Get There
From Downtown Auckland, take the northern motorway to the Takapuna offramp, then head east on Esmonde Road to Lake Road. Turn left onto Lake Road and follow this to Hurstmere Road. Follow Hurstmere Road to The Promenade and park where you can. Walk down to the Promenade to the north end of the beach, then head north on the path around the coast for a short distance to the sign for Fossil Point.
While in the area, go for a swim at Takapuna Beach, or explore the coastal walk by continuing north along the rocky coast to Thorne Bay and Milford Beach.
