Date visited: 21 August 2021
Elevation: 82m
Volcanic history
Given its proximity to the Auckland Domain, it will not surprise you to learn that the Grafton Volcano is connected to the eruption of Pukekawa. In fact, there is ongoing debate among volcano experts about whether these two volcanoes are two distinct volcanoes, or two parts of one much larger volcano. Most of what remains of the Grafton Volcano is buried underneath the surrounding housing and the Auckland University Medical School. This little patch of greenery in the city is the only publicly accessible part.
The wee building here is Outhwaite Hall. I was unable to find any information about it other than it’s available to hire for birthday parties.
Our visit
Unfortunately this day turned into a box-checking visit when we arrived at Outhwaite Park in Grafton to find the playground was in the process of being demolished (consternation!). A lot of the park was fenced off, so we decided we’d come back another day.
Directions and facilities
Outhwaite Park is located at 53 Carlton-Gore Road, Grafton. There is very limited road parking (it’s the middle of town, after all). Outhwaite Park does have a small car park, but according to the Auckland City Council’s website, it is closed until further notice. As for facilities, the hall itself has toilets on the outside of the building, but whether these are open to the public, I cannot say.
Happy adventuring,
