Auckland, Jan 11 NZPA - Two years to the day after legendary New Zealander Ed Hillary died, a new trail is being opened in his name in west Auckland.

Sir Edmund died on January 11, 2008, and the 70km Hillary Trail which connected a network of existing park tracks and backpacker campgrounds is to be officially opened this afternoon.

The trail winds it was through the Waitakere Ranges, past the Arataki Visitor Centre, Huia, Whatipu, Karekare, Piha, Anawhata, and either north to Muriwai through the Department of Conservation's Te Henga Walkway, or through Cascade Kauri Park to Swanson.

Auckland Regional Council said the trail epitomised the sense of adventure and personal achievement Sir Ed championed and was renowned for and was not a walk in the park.

It was a chance for well-prepared trampers to experience the diverse, and often challenging west coast.

Sir Ed's son, Peter Hillary, said Auckland's wild west coast was one of the jewels of the region -- "breathtaking, invigorating and one of the country's most picturesque coastlines".

"As a family we were raised on weekend adventures out here and we are delighted that this trail will bear our father's name."

The name was suggested by Waitakere City Mayor Bob Harvey who was out on the trail today and out of reach.

"Sir Ed's legacy will live on in this magnificent trail. A great icon deserves a great walk," he said when the name was announced.

"This is one to match the world renowned Heaphy and Milford tracks of the South Island."

He said west coast was Sir Edmund's second home and Anawhata was his favourite beach. It was a place he called the most beautiful on the planet, Mr Harvey said.

NZPA