Scandrett Regional Park sits on the Mahurangi Peninsula about 77 kilometres north of Auckland, overlooking Kawau Bay and the Hauraki Gulf. The park combines a working farm and historic homestead precinct with coastal bush walks that deliver some of the better clifftop views in the northern Auckland regional park network. The linked Kawau Bay, Mullet Point, and Orchard Tracks form a natural loop around the coastal edge of the park — covering native forest, an old orchard, clifftop sections with wide gulf views, and access to a second beach at Martins Bay. It is not a big park, but the walks are varied enough to fill a rewarding half-day visit.
Practical Information
| Location | Mahurangi Peninsula — approx 77km north of Auckland, ~75 min drive |
| Main walks | Mullet Point Loop (1 hour); Scandretts Bay Loop (45 min); Scandrett to Martins Bay path |
| Views | Kawau Bay, Hauraki Gulf, Martins Bay |
| Historic features | Historic homestead, former orchard, working farm |
| Native bush | Coastal forest with pōhutukawa, tawāpou, kōwhai, māhoe and kohekohe |
| Other activities | Snorkeling and kayaking from Scandretts Bay |
| Entry | Free |
About the Walks
The Mullet Point Loop (about 1 hour) is the most rewarding walk in the park — a circuit that includes a steep climb rewarded with views back over Scandretts Bay and out to Kawau Bay and the gulf. The headland at Mullet Point gives a wide, open panorama that makes the climb worthwhile. The Scandretts Bay Loop (about 45 minutes, 1km) is a shorter option that follows the Orchard, Stockyard and Pigsty Tracks through the historic farm precinct and former orchard — a good choice for those wanting a flatter, more historically-focused walk.
From the main tracks, signs lead down to Martins Bay through regenerating coastal forest. The views of Martins Bay from the elevated sections are good, and the bay itself is quieter and less visited than Scandretts Bay. The native coastal forest here is significant — pōhutukawa, tawāpou, kohekohe, tāhoe, and kōwhai all thrive in the coastal conditions, and this is one of the better remnant stands of coastal forest in the northern Auckland regional park system.
Historic Homestead and Farm
The Scandrett family farmed this land for generations before it became a regional park, and the historic homestead and farm buildings remain as part of the park’s character. The Scandretts Bay Loop passes through the former orchard and the working farm area, giving visitors a sense of the agricultural history of the site. The farm is still partially active, and the combination of historic buildings, mature orchard trees, and coastal bush makes the farm precinct an interesting area to explore on foot.
What Visitors Say
“The Mullet Point walk is short but the views from the top are excellent — Kawau Bay spread out below, clear to the gulf. The historic homestead adds an interesting dimension and the native bush sections are in good shape. A very satisfying half-day from Auckland.” — visitor review, AllTrails
Where to Learn More
- Auckland Council — Scandretts Bay Loop Track: Official track description and map for the Scandretts Bay loop.
- Auckland Council — Scandrett Mullet Point Path: Official track description and map for the Mullet Point walk.
- AllTrails — Scandrett Regional Park Walk: Track map, elevation profile and visitor reviews.
FAQ
How far is Scandrett Regional Park from Auckland?
About 77km north of Auckland, approximately a 75-minute drive via State Highway 1 and the Mahurangi Peninsula roads.
What are the best walks at Scandrett Regional Park?
The Mullet Point Loop (1 hour) for the best views, and the Scandretts Bay Loop (45 minutes) for the historic farm precinct. Both can be combined for a satisfying half-day visit.
Can you swim at Scandrett Regional Park?
Scandretts Bay has a beach accessible from the park. The bay is sheltered and suitable for swimming on calm days. Snorkeling is also possible in the bay.
Is there parking at Scandrett Regional Park?
Yes — there is a car park at the park entrance. Check the Auckland Council website for directions, as the approach road can be narrow.
Scandrett is well-paired with a visit to nearby Mahurangi Regional Park for a full day on the Mahurangi Peninsula. See the Auckland parks and reserves guide for the full regional park network.