Truby King Reserve Tracks

Track summary

Get lost in the maze of tracks at Truby King Reserve - a Category 1 Historic Place and previous site of The Seacliff Lunatic Asylum.

• 2km approx length
• 1 hour return
• Walking, Running, Stroller Friendly, Accessible.
• Dogs allowed.

About this track

There is an existing network of paths, the majority of which were established during the occupancy of Seacliff Hospital. The network consists of main entry paths formed in asphalt and previously the vehicular route into the reserve, grass paths, and woodland paths which provide pedestrian access throughout the reserve’s various areas.

The main entry path consists of the original road that provided vehicle access to Seacliff Hospital. This remains formed in asphalt and provides good universal access to the recreational plateau around the old cricket ground that previously fronted the main hospital building.

The network of grass paths provides pedestrian access to some of the more remote areas of the reserve particularly around the periphery. The woodland paths are partly made up of old cobbled paths and dirt tracks and provide pedestrian access throughout the enchanted forest.

Directions

There are two main entrances located on Russell Road and the southernmost tip of the reserve. Two minor pedestrian entry locations are positioned along Coast Road. There are two parking areas identified on the map, however the southern area provides a small informal parking area off the road reserve and the western area was previously used for parking but has since been closed to vehicles due to issues with vandalism.

Car only folks – There is no bus route to Seacliff from central Dunedin.

Know before you go:

You can find detailed historical information about the Truby King Reserve on the Heritage New Zealand website – Seacliff Lunatic Asylum Site. For those interested in learning more, the Truby King Reserve Management Plan (untitled) also provides an excellent history of the site and its significance.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed off leash at Truby King Recreation Reserve Dog Control Policy - Council 2024

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