Monmouth Redoubt and Robbins Park
This short loop track links the historic Monmouth Redoubt with the Rose Gardens at Robbins Park, on the Tauranga waterfront. Starting from the northern end of The Strand, it includes an accessible ramp and stairs, a new timber boardwalk with harbour and views of Mauao (Mount Maunganui), and finishes among rose beds, memorial trees, and a tropical display house. It's an easy, free, and history-rich walk suited to all ages, with the option to extend on to The Elms Mission House.
An easy, flat walk with a small hill at the beginning suitable for most fitness levels
Grass, paved and boardwalk
Start or finish at the end of The Strand in Tauranga City Centre.
Located at the end of The Strand in Tauranga City Centre
Historic location, rose gardens, memorial trees, and a tropical display house, views of Mauao and the harbour
Public toilets are located inside the park
Dogs on leash
Wheelchair and stroller friendly
About the walk
Where does the walk start?
Look for the blue sign at the northern end of The Strand in central Tauranga. The track climbs up to Monmouth Redoubt Reserve via an accessible ramp as well as stairs, so there's a route to suit different mobility needs.
Is It family-friendly?
Yes. It's a short, easy loop rather than a long hike, with a defined path, accessible ramp access, seating along the way, and toilets available near the Rose Gardens/Robbins Park area. The mix of history, harbour views, and gardens makes it an easy outing to do with kids at a relaxed pace.
What is the history of the Monmouth Redoubt?
At the top of the path you'll reach Monmouth Redoubt Reserve, site of the early Māori settlement Taumatakahawai Pā. The redoubt itself was built in 1864 by British forces to cut off supplies reaching local hapū and iwi supporting the Māori King's forces in the Waikato. It's directly linked to two nationally significant events of the New Zealand Land Wars: the Battle of Pukehinahina/Gate Pā (April 1864) and the Battle of Te Ranga (June 1864). There are some information plaques along the walk that provide site specific information.
Has the redoubt been restored recently?
Yes. It reopened in October 2025 after major restoration work, including structural reinforcement of the redoubt banks, replacement of failing retaining walls, and a new timber boardwalk overlooking the harbour.
What views does the boardwalk offer?
Following the new timber boardwalk gives you sweeping views across Tauranga Harbour and out to Mauao (Mount Maunganui) one of the best easily accessible lookout points in the city centre.
What's at the Rose Gardens?
Continuing along the path through Robbins Park brings you to the Rose Gardens. Highlights include:
A 28-bed rose garden
Memorial trees throughout the park
A tropical display house with begonias and orchids
An Ivy Colonnade in Renaissance Italian style framing the gardens
A camellia shrub planted in honour of Kate Sheppard, who led the campaign for women's voting rights in New Zealand
Is entry free?
Yes, park entry is free. The tropical display house is open daily, 10am–4pm in winter and 9am–6pm in summer (daylight saving).
How long does the Monmouth Redoubt and Rose Gardens walk take?
It's a short walk, typically 20–40 minutes at a relaxed pace, longer if you explore the Rose Gardens and display house or continue on to The Elms.
Can I extend the walk?
Yes, two ways:
Loop back: From the Rose Gardens, follow the path back to the start of the Monmouth Redoubt boardwalk and down to The Strand.
Continue on to The Elms: Turn left from the Rose Gardens, cross Cliff Road, then head left up Mission Street. About 100 metres on your right you'll find The Elms | Te Papa, Tauranga's historic mission station.
know before you go
Not sure what to pack? Check out the handy guides on the Department of Conservation Website.
As an island nation, New Zealand’s weather can change quickly, so ensure that you check the weather forecast before heading out for the day. Please listen to any Civil Defence and official weather warnings and take all advised precautions.
For other useful tips check out our tips for staying safe in The Bay.
