Auckland Baptist Tramping Club
The Auckland Baptist Tramping Club was born in 1979 from a vision by Jon Collins, who at the time was involved with the Sandringham Baptist Church youth group, to start a Christian tramping club. The Club’s first unofficial trip was to the Waitakere Tramline in April that year, and just a few weeks later on Queen’s Birthday weekend the official inaugural trip was run to the Puketui Mine in the Coromandel Ranges with Jon as leader. The Club has grown since then, and now boasts a membership of about 140 people. Club trips are open to everyone - you do not have to be a Baptist or Christian to come along! This is a great way to make new friends. The Club is affiliated with the Federated Mountain Clubs of NZ (Inc) Trips are run most weekends. These include easy Sunday afternoon walks, moderate Saturday day tramps, and harder weekend trips.Providing opportunities to explore the great New Zealand outdoors while enjoying Christian fellowship Sunday afternoon walks Saturday day tramps Weekend trips Social activities ALL WELCOME President: David Rutherfurd Secretary: Murray Black Contacts: John info@abtc.net.nz David ph (022) 458 5077 Tina ph (09) 627 2333
What Makes Auckland Baptist Tramping Club Special
The Auckland Baptist Tramping Club is a welcoming community dedicated to exploring New Zealand's outdoors through tramping and fellowship. All are welcome on our trips, whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out—no need to be Baptist or Christian to join in. Founded in 1979 by Jon Collins, who was involved with the Sandringham Baptist Church youth group, the club began with a vision to create a space for adventure and connection. Our first unofficial trip was along the Waitakere Tramline in April that year, followed by the official inaugural journey to the Puketui Mine in the Coromandel Ranges over Queen's Birthday weekend, led by Jon himself.
Since those early days, the club has grown to around 140 members, fostering friendships through a variety of activities. Trips run most weekends, including easy Sunday afternoon walks for a relaxed pace, moderate Saturday day tramps for a full day of exploration, and more demanding weekend trips for deeper immersion in nature. We also host social activities to build bonds beyond the trails. Affiliated with the Federated Mountain Clubs of NZ (Inc), we provide opportunities to experience the beauty of the outdoors while enjoying Christian fellowship in a supportive environment suitable for everyone.
Where to Find Us
Located in Titirangi, West Auckland, the Auckland Baptist Tramping Club is deeply rooted in the region's rich natural heritage. Our base at Konini Road, Titirangi, Auckland 0604, places us at the heart of Auckland's lush, forested landscapes, ideal for accessing nearby tramping spots like the Waitakere Ranges. This area has long been a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its trails offering glimpses into New Zealand's diverse ecosystems—from coastal paths to rugged hills.
The club's history ties closely to Auckland's tramping tradition, starting with that inaugural Waitakere Tramline walk, which highlights our ongoing connection to the local environment. From here, we venture further afield to places like the Coromandel Ranges, embracing the spirit of exploration that defines West Auckland. Whether you're local or visiting, our trips make it easy to discover the area's trails, from gentle walks to multi-day adventures, all while connecting with a community passionate about New Zealand's outdoors.
Current leaders include President David Rutherfurd and Secretary Murray Black. For more details, reach out to John at info@abtc.net.nz, David at (022) 458 5077, or Tina at (09) 627 2333. Come along and experience the joy of tramping with us—new friends and fresh air await.
Contact Info
Connect with Auckland Baptist Tramping Club in Titirangi, Auckland! Reach out to join our vibrant tramping community, get updates on events, or learn how to get involved.
Murray Black