Mt Victoria is the shortcut to Auckland’s best angles. This guided Segway tour from Devonport takes you through historic streets, then up to the volcanic cone for 360-degree views over the city and the gulf. It’s a fun mix of learning, sightseeing, and that first moment when the skyline appears.

What I like most is the small group size (max 6), which means you get real coaching and a calmer ride. I also love how the guide points out sights and gives you live commentary as you go, so you’re not just cruising—you’re actually understanding what you’re seeing.

One thing to consider: there’s some uneven ground and a bit of walking involved, plus you need enough comfort with stairs and hills. If that’s a concern, plan around it before you book.

Key takeaways before you go

• Max 6 riders per tour means more attention and fewer bottlenecks
• Training + helmet included so you’re not figuring it out on the fly
• Devonport on two wheels covers more than a normal stroll
• Mt Victoria summit for 360° views over Auckland and the harbor/gulf
• Guide-led stops for photos and local history along the route
• The mushroom patch is a quirky, memorable landmark on the ridge

Why Devonport and Mt Victoria work so well together

If you’ve been to Auckland and you’re thinking you’ll do the “pretty viewpoint” part later, don’t wait. This tour puts that viewpoint right at the end of a guided Segway ride, so the effort feels worth it.

The magic is Devonport. It’s right across the water from downtown Auckland, and it has that easy seaside feel—older homes, small back streets, and parks. Then Mt Victoria (also called Takarunga) rises like a volcanic cone right above it. So instead of traveling to one isolated spot, you get a full little world: village streets first, then the summit.

The Segway part matters too. You cover real distance without turning the day into a workout. And because you’re moving slowly enough to take in details (not just speed past them), the sightseeing sticks.

Meeting at Magic Broomstick Segway Tours (and what to expect)

Your tour starts at Magic Broomstick Segway Tours at Devonport Ferry Terminal 1, Queens Parade (0624). Since it’s at the ferry terminal, it’s a straightforward match for a day in Auckland: you can time your ride around ferry schedules without hunting for transport in the last hour.

The activity is about 2 hours total. That includes Segway training and the guided ride through Devonport and up to Mt Victoria. Your day ends back at the same starting point, so you don’t have to worry about catching transit from a far-off location.

Price is $89.98 per person, and that includes the basics you’d otherwise pay separately: a helmet, a local guide, GST, and live commentary. What’s not included is transportation to or from the start.

Segway training: where first-timers gain confidence fast

The tour setup gives you full training and a helmet before you’re sent up the hill. That’s a huge deal. Riding a Segway is not hard, but it is new, and you don’t want to “learn” in the busiest or steepest part of the route.

I like that the company builds the experience around coaching and practice time. In practice, the guide’s focus is on making sure you can control speed, turns, and balance. One of the recurring strengths here is patience—especially for people doing their first Segway ride.

You’ll also want to take the training seriously because you’ll encounter mixed terrain. The route includes grassy and bumpy patches at times, plus curbs and uneven ground. If you stay relaxed and follow instructions, it clicks quickly. If you tense up, it can feel harder than it needs to be.

A practical tip

Wear shoes with grip. You don’t need hiking boots, but you do need something that won’t slide on damp or rough surfaces.

Exploring Devonport by Segway: photos, parks, and Victorian streets

Once you’re comfortable, the tour swings you into historic Devonport. This isn’t an “only the highlight viewpoint” day. You get a real sense of the neighborhood layout and architecture as you glide around.

Along the way, you’ll see:

• back streets and older buildings
• parks and open spaces
• Victorian-style villas and details the guide points out
• natural photo stops with views that open up as you move

The route is also designed for a smooth experience. Because group size is capped at 6, you’re not fighting crowds for turns or pausing for photos. You get more time to stop, look, and ask questions.

This is also where you learn what to look for. The guide gives local context while you ride, so things like building styles, street patterns, and the history of the North Shore make sense. Even if your interest in history is light, you’ll still come away with a better eye for place.

The climb to Takarunga (Mt Victoria): where the day turns

The main event is the ride to Takarunga / Mount Victoria, described as the highest volcanic cone on Auckland’s North Shore. This is where the experience earns its title.

You’ll head up to the summit while your guide:

• points out places of interest as they appear
• shares history of the location
• helps you manage the ride on the way up

The climb is the perfect Segway use case. You’re going uphill, yes—but you’re not doing it with a heavy backpack or a burning knee. You control your pace, and you arrive without the fatigue that often ruins a viewpoint visit.

Then the payoff hits: 360-degree views. You’ll see Auckland spread out below, plus the harbor/gulf. This is the moment when the day stops being a “tour” and becomes a real panorama you can take your time with.

What you should watch for at the top

When you first reach the summit, pause. Let your eyes adjust. The views are wide, and you’ll spot multiple layers: city closer in, the water line, and longer stretches of coast. It’s one of those spots where moving your head is as important as taking photos.

The mushroom patch and other small summit moments

One memorable detail is the mysterious mushroom patch mentioned in the tour experience. It’s the kind of quirky landmark that makes a viewpoint feel more than just scenic.

These small “what is that?” stops are one of the reasons this tour feels more personal than a drive-by stop. When the guide brings up an odd detail like that, you pay attention in a different way. You stop treating the summit as a generic photo spot.

You may also enjoy that the summit area gives you multiple angles. Even if you’re not someone who loves scenic viewpoints, you’ll still get the satisfaction of exploring slowly and seeing the whole area rather than just snapping one picture and leaving.

Guide style: safe, patient, and tuned to your group

This tour’s reputation rests heavily on the guide experience. The guide, Pauline (owner and guide), is consistently described as patient, fun, and safety-first.

You’ll see that style in the way instruction is delivered:

• clear, easy-to-follow Segway guidance
• extra practice time before moving into the more interesting sections
• a focus on controlling speed and balance
• attention to what each person in the group needs

Another practical point: because the group cap is 6, a guide can actually manage the flow. That helps on steeper areas and on turns where you’d otherwise get stuck behind someone who isn’t confident yet.

If you’re worried about safety, don’t be. This is not a free-for-all ride. You’re given helmets, trained up front, and coached throughout.

Price vs value: is $89.98 actually worth it?

At $89.98 per person for about 2 hours, you’re paying for three things at once: the Segways, the guide, and the access to a viewpoint day that would be harder without help.

Here’s the value logic:

• You get training + helmet included, not just a device rental.
• You cover more than you would on foot in the same time, especially for the uphill part.
• You get live commentary, meaning you’re not just paying to move faster—you’re paying to understand what you see.
• The group stays small, which helps the experience feel more like a guided outing than a ride-through.

The main cost-side drawback is that transport to and from the meeting point is not included. That said, since the meeting point is at a ferry terminal, you can plan that travel easily if you’re already moving around the Auckland area.

If you want a low-effort way to see Devonport and still end with a real summit panorama, this price is in line with what you’re getting.

Weather and fitness: when to be cautious

This tour operates in all weather conditions, but you should still think about your comfort level with damp ground. Segways are affected by slick surfaces, so safe riding matters.

Also note the “consideration” items that show up in the tour requirements:

• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Not recommended if you’re not agile enough to climb stairs unaided
• A small amount of walking is involved on the North Head style of tours, and you should expect some movement of the same general type on terrain around Devonport
• Service animals are allowed
• Weight limits are strict: 35 kg to 120 kg (75–265 lbs)

The best way to think about it: if you can handle uneven ground for a short time and you can climb stairs on your own, you’ll probably be fine. If not, it’s worth checking before you commit.

What to wear and bring for a smooth ride

You don’t need special gear, but you do need to dress for the conditions. Because this is an outdoor ride with hills and open viewpoints:

• Wear comfortable shoes with grip
• Bring a jacket that works if the wind picks up
• If it looks rainy, plan for damp paths
• You’ll be moving and standing still at viewpoints, so layers help

The tour also runs in bad weather scenarios by either rescheduling or offering a refund if it becomes unsafe. So don’t assume every forecast means you’ll get canceled, but also don’t plan your day around only one firm timing.

Who this Segway tour suits best

This is a great fit if you:

• want a guided way to explore Devonport without doing a long hike
• like learning while you travel, not just taking photos
• are first-time Segway riders and want real instruction
• want a smaller-group experience with personal attention

It may be less ideal if you:

• can’t handle uneven terrain or stairs
• don’t feel comfortable balancing while riding
• fall outside the weight range
• are pregnant

If you’re on a short trip and you want one strong “Auckland views” moment plus a fun local ride, it’s a smart use of time.

Should you book the Mt Victoria Segway tour?

Book it if you want a practical, guided way to mix Devonport sights with a summit viewpoint, without turning the day into a sweat-fest. The combination of small group size, training, and a guide who clearly enjoys the area is what makes this stand out.

Skip it only if stairs or uneven ground would be a problem for you, or if your comfort level with balance is low. Otherwise, this is one of the more fun ways to see Auckland’s North Shore—and it ends with the kind of wide-open panorama that you’ll remember long after you’re back on the ferry.

FAQ

Where does the tour start?

You’ll meet at Magic Broomstick Segway Tours at Devonport Ferry Terminal 1, Queens Parade, Devonport, Auckland 0624.

How long is the tour?

It runs for about 2 hours.

What does the tour cost?

The price is $89.98 per person.

What’s included in the ticket price?

Included are a local guide, helmet use, GST, and live commentary.

Is transportation to the start location included?

No. Transportation to and from the Segway start location is not included.

What’s the minimum age for this Mount Victoria tour?

Minimum age is 13 years for the Mt Victoria Magic and Historic North Head tours.

Are there any weight limits?

Yes. Participant weight must be between 35 kg and 120 kg (75 lbs to 265 lbs).

Do I need to already know how to ride a Segway?

No. The tour includes full Segway training, plus safety gear like a helmet.

What about weather?

The tour operates in all weather conditions, but it requires safe riding conditions. If it’s canceled due to extreme weather that makes it unsafe, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a refund.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

It’s not recommended for pregnant women, and it’s not recommended for people who aren’t agile enough to climb stairs unaided. Service animals are allowed.