Ōmana Regional Park is a small, family-friendly coastal park near Maraetai on Auckland’s east coast, about 42 kilometres from the city centre. It has a sheltered swimming beach fringed by pohutukawa, easy walking tracks through farmland and native bush, a Māori pā site, rock pools to explore, and a campground just above the beach. It’s one of the quieter regional parks — compact and accessible — and works well as a half-day trip or an overnight stay.
Practical Information
| Location | Maraetai, east Auckland |
|---|---|
| Address | Omana Beach Road, Maraetai |
| Drive from Auckland CBD | Approximately 42km — around 45 minutes |
| Entry | Free |
| Beach | Sheltered swimming beach (safe at high tide) |
| Facilities | Toilets, BBQs, picnic tables, children’s playground, boardwalk |
| Camping | Yes — clifftop campground, bookable through Auckland Council |
| Dogs | Not permitted (regional park rules) |
| Managed by | Auckland Council |
About the Park
Ōmana Regional Park covers a small coastal headland and surrounding farmland south of Maraetai Beach. The main beach sits in a sheltered bay backed by pohutukawa, making it calm enough for family swimming when the tide is in. Rock pools extend from the beach at lower tides, and the park has pet farm animals — a feature that draws families with young children.
The park’s name connects to the whenua (land) and is significant to local iwi. A Māori pā site is visible along the Perimeter Walk, offering context to the park’s long history of occupation before European settlement.
Walking Tracks
The tracks at Ōmana are all easy and relatively short — this is not a destination for a full-day hike, but the walks are pleasant and varied. The Perimeter Walk (2.5km, approximately 1 hour) is the main circuit, passing through native bush, open paddocks, along cliff-top sections with Gulf views, through tidal estuaries with mangroves, and past the pā site. It’s the most complete experience of the park.
The Omana Farm Walk (0.5km, about 15 minutes) is a short diversion from the Perimeter Walk through the farm area — good for families with small children who want a taste of the park without committing to the full loop.
Camping at Ōmana
The clifftop campground sits above the beach with views over the Hauraki Gulf. It’s a basic Auckland Council facility with flat ground, toilet blocks, BBQs and picnic tables. The campground is popular during school holidays but generally quieter in the shoulder seasons. Bookings are made through Auckland Council’s online system — advance booking is recommended for summer weekends.
What Visitors Say
“Perfect for a family day out. The beach is calm and safe for kids, the rock pools kept them busy for an hour, and the farm animals were a hit. The walk around the headland gives nice views of the Gulf. Small park but has everything you need.”
“Stayed at the campsite overnight. The clifftop position is lovely — you can see the Gulf from your tent. Quiet and well-maintained. The beach is only a short walk down. Good base if you want to explore Maraetai and surrounds.”
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Ōmana Regional Park — official park page with facilities, track information and camping booking.
East Auckland Tourism — Ōmana Regional Park — local visitor information with highlights and practical tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ōmana Regional Park from Auckland?
About 42km south-east of Auckland CBD, taking approximately 45 minutes to drive via the South-Eastern Highway and Maraetai Beach Road.
Is the beach safe for swimming?
The beach is sheltered and considered safe for swimming, particularly at high tide when it’s deeper and calmer. At low tide the beach becomes more exposed and rocky in places.
Is there camping at Ōmana?
Yes — a clifftop campground with basic facilities is bookable through Auckland Council. Advance booking is strongly recommended for school holidays.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Dogs are not permitted in Auckland regional parks.
Are the walks suitable for young children and prams?
The Farm Walk is short and relatively flat — manageable with older toddlers. The Perimeter Walk involves some uneven and hilly terrain and is not suitable for prams.
What is the pā site in the park?
A Māori pā (fortified settlement) site is located along the Perimeter Walk. It is part of the park’s long cultural history predating European arrival.
For more parks and beaches along Auckland’s east coast, see our guide to parks in Auckland. Nearby options include Tāpapakanga Regional Park further south and Duder Regional Park at Kawakawa Bay.
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