McLaughlins Mountain

McLaughlins Mountain rises about 73 meters above sea level within Auckland's volcanic field. The mountain features a small explosion crater and a tuff ring filled with lava flows that shape its landscape.

The mountain takes its English name from the McLaughlin family, who settled near the site in 1845. This settlement sparked the creation of several local landmarks in the surrounding area.

The Māori name Matukutūreia refers to a careless bittern and connects the site to indigenous heritage. You can still see the remains of pre-European stone gardens that were used for growing crops.

The reserve can be accessed through a fence beside the locked gate on the main driveway or from the end of Wilco Place. Both routes lead you easily onto the open mountain area.

The mountain displays three different eruption styles with a visible cross-section showing a groundwater reservoir within the scoria of the explosion crater. This geological feature offers rare insight into the complex volcanic structure beneath.

GPS coordinates: -37.01332,174.84592

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:05