A Segway makes North Head feel like discovery. I love how this runs as a small group tour, with clear coaching and time to get steady before you head out. You also get a helmet, so you’re not thinking about the ride the whole time.

I also like that you’re not only cruising around Devonport. You get time at North Head Historic Reserve, including forts and the volcanic-cone summit views back toward Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf.

One thing to keep in mind: there’s a stairs and walking component at North Head. If you’re not comfortable climbing stairs unaided, this may feel like work instead of fun.

Key points before you glide

• Max 6 riders means you get more hands-on guidance and better pacing.
• Helmet included helps you focus on scenery and history.
• North Head fort area includes military fortifications, bunkers, and tunnels.
• A quick practice start helps first-timers build confidence before the main route.
• 2.5 hours total is long enough to cover ground without draining you.
• Devonport is the base and you finish back where you start.

Why Devonport and North Head belong together on a Segway

Devonport sits right across the water from Auckland, and that contrast is exactly what you want on a guided ride. One moment you’re in a seaside village, the next you’re looking toward the city and the Hauraki Gulf from higher ground.

A Segway is a practical match here. You cover more distance than walking, but you can still slow down at viewpoints and pay attention to what your guide is pointing out. And because this is guided, you’re not just seeing places. You’re hearing why they mattered.

This tour keeps the focus tight: Devonport at sea-level, then the North Head fort area up on the volcanic cone. That mix is a big part of the value.

Getting started at Magic Broomstick Segway Tours in Devonport

You meet at the Magic Broomstick Segway Tours office at Devonport Ferry Terminal 1, Queens Parade. It’s easy to find if you’re arriving by ferry, and the tour ends back at the same spot.

Plan for a short setup period: you sign up, get your briefing, and then you’re on the Segways. Riders also get a practical start point and coaching so you can move off at the right pace. First-timers should feel comfortable asking questions right away. The guides are known for clear, patient instruction and gentle reminders while you get the hang of the controls.

This matters because Segway tours can go one of two ways: either you rush to keep up with the group, or you take a moment to learn safely. Here, the small-group setup helps you avoid that stress.

North Head Historic Reserve: summit views and 1880s fortifications

North Head Historic Reserve (Maungauika) is the main event. Your guide takes you to the summit area for views back toward Auckland City and out over the Hauraki Gulf. On a clear day, the whole area makes sense in one sweep: harbor, coastline, and the defensive geography of the headland.

Then the tour turns from scenery into story. You’ll explore the remains of a historic fort built in the 1880s, with military fortifications you can see up close. Depending on conditions, you’ll also spend time with features such as bunkers and tunnels. There’s also a chance to dismount and explore them a little.

What you should expect on this portion:

• The guide talks you through local history and culture tied to the fort site.
• You’ll get viewpoint time plus time on the fort remains.
• You’ll do some walking and handling uneven terrain near historic structures.

The upside is that you don’t just roll past it. You actually get time on the site, including the summit payoff. The tradeoff is physical comfort: the tour includes a small amount of walking and some stairs, and it isn’t meant for people who can’t climb stairs unaided.

The ride back through Devonport’s seaside village feel

After the North Head segment, you head back through Devonport. The goal is a change of pace: from military structures and the high summit view back down to parks and beaches, then into the heart of the village.

Devonport is the kind of place where slow travel fits. Even without a long stop at every corner, the Segway lets you pick up the layout quickly. You get a feel for the shoreline, the greenery, and the compact village streets without spending half the afternoon just moving from point to point.

One practical tip: if you’re a “stops and streets” person, know that this tour’s priorities lean toward North Head fort history over extended city-street sightseeing. If you want more time drifting through village blocks, ask your guide what they can flex during the ride.

Price, time, and what you really get for NZ$108.60

At NZ$108.60 per person for about 2 hours 30 minutes, this is priced for an organized, guided activity with equipment and instruction built in.

Here’s what makes that cost more reasonable than it looks at first glance:

• You get a local guide, live commentary, and helmet use included.
• It’s small group (max 6), which usually means less waiting and more attention.
• You’re covering enough ground to see both Devonport and North Head without hiring multiple transport pieces.

What’s not included is transportation to and from the start location. That part is on you, but the meeting point at the ferry terminal helps a lot if you’re already planning to use the ferry system.

Also worth noting: booking demand is high enough that this is typically booked about 45 days in advance. If you have a specific travel day, it’s smart to lock it in early, especially during busier seasons.

Practical notes you should know before you ride

Segways feel intuitive once you’re up and moving, but the setup rules here are clear for a reason. Take these seriously so the tour stays safe and fun.

• Age: minimum age is 13 for the Historic North Head tours. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Weight range: riders must be between 35 kg and 120 kg.
• Health and comfort: it’s not recommended for pregnant women, and it requires a bit of mobility (walking plus stairs).
• Weather: it operates in all weather conditions, so dress for wind, mist, or rain.
• Animals: service animals are allowed.
• Helmet and instruction: helmet use is included, and you’ll get step-by-step guidance.

If you’re traveling with older parents, consider this a plus rather than a risk. The tour’s structure is built for coaching and pacing, not speed. That’s why many people feel confident even if they’re new to a Segway.

Who should book this Segway tour from Devonport (and who should skip it)

This tour is a strong fit if you want:

• Spectacular harbor and city views from the summit at North Head.
• A guided look at fort remains from the 1880s, including bunkers and tunnels.
• A low-effort way to cover distance while still feeling like you explored, not just passed through.
• A tour where a guide can slow down for different comfort levels in the group.

It’s probably not the right fit if:

• Climbing stairs unaided is an issue for you or your group.
• You want a mostly casual “ride and photo stops” tour with minimal historic structures.
• You don’t want to manage the small walking portion even if the Segway ride itself is easy.
• You fall outside the listed age or weight limits.

Also, if you’re coming from a cruise schedule and want a straightforward plan, this tour’s meeting point at the ferry terminal is handy. You get a clear start point, a clear end point, and no need to figure out a complicated meeting place.

Should you book the North Head Fort Segway Tour?

Yes, if your priority is North Head views plus guided fort history and you want to do it with coaching and a helmet in a max-6 setting. The best reason to book is simple: you get the summit and fort area payoff without turning the day into a long hike.

I’d skip it or rethink it if mobility limits are part of your travel reality. The Segway portion can be friendly, but North Head still asks for some walking and stairs.

If you’re on the fence about the balance of fort history vs Devonport village time, bring that preference into your guide conversation early. You’ll at least be able to confirm the pace and what parts feel most important to you.

FAQ

Where does the guided North Head Fort Segway tour start?

It starts at Magic Broomstick Segway Tours at Devonport Ferry Terminal 1, Queens Parade, Devonport, Auckland 0624, New Zealand.

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes.

What is the group size?

The tour has a maximum of 6 people per booking.

Is a helmet included?

Yes, the tour includes use of a helmet.

What age is required for the North Head Historic tour?

The minimum age is 13 for Mt. Victoria Magic and Historic North Head Tours, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there weight limits?

Yes. Participants must weigh between 35 kg and 120 kg (75 lbs to 265 lbs).

Is transportation to and from the start location included?

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

Does the tour run in bad weather?

The tour operates in all weather conditions. You should dress appropriately, and if extreme weather makes it unsafe to ride a Segway, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a refund option per the operator’s notice.

What will we see at North Head?

You’ll explore the North Head Historic Reserve (Maungauika) with views from the summit and the remains of a historic fort built in the 1880s, including military fortifications, bunkers, and tunnels. You also have a chance to dismount and explore them a little.

Is there a cancellation refund if I change my mind?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, based on local time.