Shakespear Regional Park Auckland
A bayside sanctuary offering stunning coastal views, diverse walking trails, and a protected kiwi habitat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting
Shakespear Regional Park Auckland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bayside sanctuary offering stunning coastal views, diverse walking trails, and a protected kiwi habitat.
"Incredible place, one of my fav regional parks. Go on a sunny day and you will see the greenest pastures and blueest skies!"
🚶♀️ Explore Diverse Trails
Discover coastal paths, wetlands, and historical sites. Allow 3-4 hours for full exploration.
🦉 Night Walks for Kiwis
Bring a torch and listen for kiwis in this protected sanctuary. No dogs allowed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Te Haruhi Bay
South-eastern coast
A picturesque beach with golden sand, perfect for picnics and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Army Bay
Western coast
Offers stunning views and a great spot for a low-tide walk towards Fisherman's Cove.
Waterfall Gully & Okoromai Wetland
Inland trails
Explore native flora and fauna, with a chance to spot rare native birds.
WW2 Gun Batteries
Various locations
Discover historical remnants of coastal defense, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Solitude
Embrace the Trails and Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore Diverse Trails
Discover coastal paths, wetlands, and historical sites. Allow 3-4 hours for full exploration.
🦉 Night Walks for Kiwis
Bring a torch and listen for kiwis in this protected sanctuary. No dogs allowed.
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Te Haruhi Bay and Army Bay are ideal spots for a scenic picnic lunch.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking is available but can be confusing; avoid the bus stand area.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore Diverse Trails
Discover coastal paths, wetlands, and historical sites. Allow 3-4 hours for full exploration.
🦉 Night Walks for Kiwis
Bring a torch and listen for kiwis in this protected sanctuary. No dogs allowed.
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Te Haruhi Bay and Army Bay are ideal spots for a scenic picnic lunch.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking is available but can be confusing; avoid the bus stand area.
🌊 Tide Awareness
Be mindful of tides when walking to Fisherman's Cove from Army Bay.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Shakespear Regional Park's stunning 360-degree views, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife, making it a favorite regional park. While parking can be confusing and some areas are inaccessible by car, the serene beaches, diverse trails, and the unique experience of hearing kiwis at night are consistently praised.
"The best place with 360 views and spent time with both family or your loved ones. To explore the entire area you need at least 3-4 hours. There is plenty of parking inside but it is very confusing, don't park near the bus stand . You can take your car inside up to a certain distance which is very helpful specifically near the "Photo Frame" point. There are 3-4 trails but please do necessary research of the we"
Tilak Sarma
"Such a lovely place, full of greenery. We could hear the sea and watch a fantail playing with us. We drew in the sand and had a pleasant chat with a cheerful elderly couple. I saw a little bird and thought it only had one leg. It turned out it was just tucking one leg up to rest."
Liu Xiao Shan
"Some beautiful, sweeping landscapes that are beautifully cared for. Also a humble amount of wildlife such as sheep, cattle, and pukeko.
Note it's next to a military base so you may see some soldiers, but my midday visit had very few other people on my walk so you may appreciate the solitude."
Daniel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shakespear Regional Park is about an hour's drive north of Auckland CBD. You can take State Highway 1 North, then State Highway 18 West, and finally State Highway 20A towards the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. Follow signs for Shakespear Regional Park.
While public transport options are limited directly to the park, you can take a bus towards the Whangaparaoa Peninsula and then potentially arrange a taxi or rideshare for the final leg. It's generally easier to drive.
The park has several walking trails. You can drive to certain points like the 'Photo Frame' viewpoint, but many areas are best explored on foot. Research the trails beforehand to plan your route.
Yes, you can drive into Shakespear Regional Park. There is parking available, though it can be confusing. You can drive to specific points of interest, but some areas are only accessible by walking.
Gulf Harbour is not too far away, and you can catch a ferry to one of the islands from there. Little Manly and Matakatia beaches are also nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Shakespear Regional Park is generally free to enter. However, if you plan to camp, you will need to book your campsite in advance.
The park is typically open from dawn till dusk. Specific facilities like campgrounds will have their own operating hours. It's best to check the official Auckland Council website for any seasonal changes.
No, general entry to Shakespear Regional Park does not require booking tickets. However, if you wish to camp at Te Haruhi Bay Campground, advance booking is essential.
No, dogs are not allowed in Shakespear Regional Park as it is a kiwi sanctuary. This is to protect the native wildlife.
No, most places within the park were unaccessible by car. While you can drive to certain points, many of the beautiful trails and beaches are best explored on foot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular tracks include the walk around Shakespeare down to a waterfall, the coastal walk to Fisherman's Cove from Army Bay, and exploring the Okoromai wetland and Waterfall Gully.
The park is a kiwi sanctuary and home to many native birds like banded rail, fernbird, hihi, and bellbirds. You might also see farm animals like sheep and cattle, and pukeko.
These are likely remnants of WW2 gun batteries, part of Auckland's coastal defenses. You can find more information about them online.
Yes, it's a nice low-tide walk, but be careful and give yourself plenty of time. There's a staircase back up to the lookout if needed.
The park offers campgrounds (Te Haruhi Bay), walking tracks, picnic areas, and toilets. Some areas have been improved with chairs and view decks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within Shakespear Regional Park. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for picnics.
The Everard Avenue dairy is recommended for fish and chips. Otherwise, you'll find dining options in nearby towns like Whangaparaoa.
Picnic areas are available, and it's generally permissible to have BBQs in designated spots, but always check local regulations or signage within the park. Bringing your own portable BBQ is often an option.
Pack plenty of snacks, water, and picnic items. If you plan to stay for a while or hike, ensure you have enough provisions as facilities are limited.
Typically, there are no regular food vendors within the park itself. It's best to come prepared with your own food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Photo Frame' point offers great views, as do the lookouts, Te Haruhi Bay, and Army Bay. The rolling green hills and coastal landscapes are very photogenic.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow over the landscapes.
Yes, the park is a haven for native birds. Remember to be respectful and maintain a safe distance to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
The lighthouse is visible from various points, especially when walking towards Tiritiri Matangi Island. The lookout points within the park also offer good vantage points.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, a wide-angle lens for sweeping views, and a telephoto lens for bird photography would be beneficial. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty. The 'Photo Frame' viewpoint is also a fun spot for family photos. Remember that dogs are not allowed, so leave your furry friends at home.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity for a night walk to potentially hear or see kiwis in their natural habitat. Remember to bring a torch and be respectful of the sanctuary. The park's diverse ecosystems provide a rich experience for anyone passionate about nature and conservation.
📸 Photographers
Key spots include Te Haruhi Bay for its picturesque beach and Army Bay for its coastal vistas. Keep your camera ready for wildlife, especially the diverse birdlife. The historical WW2 gun batteries also provide unique photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Nature
For those seeking a more adventurous walk, the path from Army Bay to Fisherman's Cove is recommended, especially at low tide. Be mindful of the tide times to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The park's designation as a kiwi sanctuary also makes night walks a unique possibility, though sightings are rare.
Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially on longer hikes. The park's diverse landscapes, from lush greenery to rugged coastlines, provide a stunning backdrop for any outdoor adventure.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
The park also features introduced species like the brown quail, adding to the biodiversity. Visitors are encouraged to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitats. The presence of farm animals like sheep and cattle also adds to the rural charm of the park.
It's crucial to remember that dogs are not permitted within the park to ensure the safety of the native wildlife. This strict policy helps maintain the sanctuary's integrity and allows these precious species to flourish.
Historical Significance: WW2 Gun Batteries
These batteries were part of a network designed to protect Auckland from potential naval attacks. Exploring these sites provides a unique historical dimension to your visit, complementing the natural beauty of the park.
While the exact locations might require some research, discovering these historical sites adds an intriguing layer to the Shakespear Regional Park experience. They serve as a reminder of a different era and the foresight taken to protect the coastline.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit