Flagstaff Summit Track | Easy Walking Tracks in Dunedin
Panorama from the Summit of Flagstaff Hill in Dunedin, New Zealand.
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This easy walking track in Dunedin offers rewarding views over the city, ocean and mountain ranges surrounding Ōtepoti. All ages and fitness levels can reach panoramic views in just under an hours walk on the Flagstaff Summit Track.
In This Trail Guide:
Flagstaff Summit Tracks Map
Created by Mountain Mamas NZ - Image sourced from LINZ - Crown copyright ©
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Distance | 2.7 kilometers |
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Elevation Gain | 170 meters |
| Time | 1 hour |
| Family Friendliness | ★★★★★ |
| Pram Access | No |
| Dog Access | Yes |
| Trailhead Coordinates | 45°50'04.1"S 170°27'04.6"E |
Note: There are three main routes to the Summit of Flagstaff Hill, but the shortest track starts from the Bull Ring Carpark. That is the route we will be covering in this blog.Hiking to Flagstaff Summit via the Bull Ring Carpark
There are two main trailheads to start this walk from and the shorter walk of the two begins from the Bull Ring Carpark (1 - 2 hour return). Alternatively, you can start at the Pineapple Track and join it with this one for an extra long hike (3.5 hour return). The Bull Ring car park has no toilets and is a short 10 minute drive west outside of Dunedin, so be sure to hit the loo beforehand.
Follow the narrow gravel path leading into the flax bushes. It’s just to the right of the Flagstaff Scenic Reserve sign, both to the right of the fenced off gravel road. The path is extremely clear to follow and nearly impossible to get lost, making it great for toddlers still learning to follow a trail.
There’s a very gentle and consistent incline leading you to the summit. Not too easy, not too hard. Most of the track is tightly compacted down gravel, but a few areas have come loose and could be a slipping hazard on your downhill journey. A few large rocks do stick up out of the ground directly in the middle of the walkway as you get closer to the top, so watch out for that! Our nearly 2 year old loved the challenge of climbing over all the mini boulders.
Looking Southwest towards Taieri Plains and Whare Flat.
After about 15 minutes of walking, turn around to look behind you, you’ll slowly see more and more of the big view reveal itself. It was tempting to just walk backwards up the hill because the view behind you just gets better and better. Of course I wouldn’t literally recommend that though, as I said before there are lots of rocks you could trip over near the top. But seriously, this is one of my favorite walks in Dunedin thanks to the low effort / high payoff.
We reached the top of the hill in about 40 minutes, including a quick break for our toddler to walk the last section of the trail himself. The last 5 minutes of the walk is mostly flat. You’ll know you’ve reached the true Flagstaff Hill Summit when you come across the metal pole sitting atop the mountain of rocks (Geodetic Survey Mark 1081). On the ground below is a super helpful map naming all the mountains surrounding Flagstaff Hill, credited to the Otago Tramping & Mountaineering Club.
Flagstaff Summit with a 22 month old! 668 meters above sea level
From Flagstaff Summit, you can continue walking further ahead and follow the loop track back to the Bull Ring Carpark. The loop track veers to the left and takes approximately 2 hours total. Otherwise, you can turn back and return the way you came if you’d prefer to stick closer to 1 hour total walking time. Soak up the views up top as long as you can, because they slowly and sadly disappear as you walk back down the hill. Enjoy our pics from the top, and I hope to see some of your own soon too :)
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, Dunedin’s Flagstaff Track is very safe for families with young children. The track is easy to follow and has no hazards to look out for.
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Yes, dogs are allowed on the Flagstaff Track and in Flagstaff Scenic Reserve. Dogs do not need to be on a leash either.
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The Flagstaff Summit Track can be turned into a loop approximately 5.5 kilometers / 2 hours long. Alternatively, the out and back walk to the summit is 2.7 kilometers / 1 hour.
How to Get to Flagstaff Scenic Reserve
From Dunedin City Centre (13min)
Start by heading North-West of the Octagon on Stuart St. In 1.4 km’s make a slight right onto Taieri Road and keep following for another 3 kilometers. Make a right turn onto Flagstaff-Whare Flat Road and follow this gravel road for 2.4 km’s. The Bull Ring car park will be on your right hand side at the intersection of Rollinsons Rd.
Other Easy Walking Tracks in Dunedin
Tunnel Beach Track in Dunedin, New Zealand.
Tunnel Beach Track (pictured above):
8.2km | 530m | 3hr 30minNicol’s Falls:
5.6km | 275m | 2hrRedwood Loop Track:
1.3km | 50m | 50min
Where to Stay in Dunedin
Disclaimer: Please adventure at your own risk. The author of this article is not liable for any injuries or damage that may occur. It is up to the individual to determine their own capabilities and limits, and to thoroughly research before venturing into the great outdoors. Read our full Disclaimer.
