Last updated July 2026
Scandrett Regional Park occupies the north-east tip of the Mahurangi Peninsula, roughly 82 kilometres north of Auckland CBD, overlooking Scandretts Bay and Kawau Bay in the Hauraki Gulf. The 44.4-hectare park features a sheltered north-facing beach, regenerating coastal forest, rocky headlands at Mullet Point, and a cluster of historic farm buildings. It offers a compact setting ideal for half-day visits combining swimming, short walks, and coastal views. Pedestrian access remains open around the clock while vehicle gates follow seasonal hours.
Practical Information
| Location | 114 Scandrett Road, Mahurangi East; north-east tip of Mahurangi Peninsula on Kawau Bay |
| Hours | Pedestrian access 24 hours; vehicle gates 6am–9pm (daylight saving), 6am–7pm (non-daylight saving) |
| Entry | Free |
| Parking | Free parking near the main entrance |
| Facilities | Toilets, picnic areas, drinking water at Scandretts Bay picnic area; no café |
| Camping | Not available; bookable baches on site; nearest camping at Mahurangi Regional Park |
| Access from Auckland | Approximately 82 km north via SH1 then Mahurangi East roads; allow 1.5 hours |
| Dogs | Allowed on lead in designated areas only; check current dog walking map on Auckland Council website |
| Marine protection | Surrounded by Kawau Bay high protection area; no recreational fishing or seafood gathering |
About Scandrett Regional Park
The park centres on Scandretts Bay, a sheltered sandy beach backed by regenerating coastal vegetation and pōhutukawa trees. Low tide reveals rock pools along the edges, while the calm waters suit swimming when conditions allow. Visitors should check Safeswim for current water quality before entering the sea.
Historic farm buildings include the concrete homestead completed in 1886, constructed with an early form of concrete rather than the typical kauri timber of the period. Earlier structures on the site date to the 1860s when the Scandrett family established the farm. Interpretive material highlights the farm’s history alongside two headland pā sites that evidence long-standing Māori occupation of the coastline.
The park’s coastal setting provides panoramic views across Kawau Bay to Kawau Island and the wider Hauraki Gulf. Regenerating native bush supports local birdlife, and the compact layout makes it easy to combine beach time with short walks to Mullet Point and Martins Bay. Recent marine protections in Kawau Bay restrict fishing to help restore marine ecosystems.
Walking Tracks
The main loop combines the Kawau Bay Track, Mullet Point Track and Orchard Track for a circuit of approximately 3.4 kilometres with around 145 metres of elevation gain. The full loop typically takes one to 1.5 hours. Shorter options include the Mullet Point Loop (2 km, 1 hour return) and Scandretts Bay Loop (1.5 km, 50 minutes return).
A brief detour along the Martins Bay Track (350 metres, 5 minutes one way) leads to a smaller sheltered bay offering an alternative swimming spot and additional clifftop views. Track surfaces vary and can become muddy after rain; sturdy footwear is recommended on the headland sections. All tracks remain open to pedestrians at all times.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the combination of a calm beach, regenerating forest, historic buildings and sweeping coastal views from Mullet Point and the clifftops. Many note that sections of track can turn muddy after rain and recommend appropriate footwear.
Reviewers frequently highlight the spectacular outlook across Kawau Bay and the Hauraki Gulf, describing the park as a peaceful spot for a relaxed half-day outing with good swimming options at both Scandretts Bay and Martins Bay.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Scandrett Regional Park: official details on access, facilities, maps, dog walking rules and accommodation bookings.
Safeswim: current water quality and swimming safety information for Auckland beaches including Scandretts Bay.
Auckland Council – Scandrett Regional Park map (PDF): track lengths, times and layout for all walking options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scandrett Regional Park free to enter?
Yes. Day visitor access is free with no entry fees.
Can I swim at Scandrett Regional Park?
Yes. Scandretts Bay offers a sheltered north-facing beach suitable for swimming. Martins Bay provides a second option via a short track detour. Always check Safeswim for current conditions.
What is the main walking loop like?
The primary circuit combines the Kawau Bay, Mullet Point and Orchard tracks for about 3.4 kilometres with roughly 145 metres of elevation gain. It takes one to 1.5 hours. Shorter loops and the Martins Bay detour are also available.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted on a lead in designated areas only. Consult the current dog walking map on the Auckland Council website for permitted zones.
What is the historic homestead?
The concrete homestead was completed in 1886 using an early form of concrete. It replaced an earlier wooden cottage on the Scandrett family farm established in the 1860s. Several other historic farm buildings remain.
Can I camp at Scandrett Regional Park?
No camping is available. Bookable baches are located on site. The nearest camping options are at Mahurangi Regional Park.
Is fishing allowed?
No. The park is surrounded by the Kawau Bay high protection area where recreational fishing and seafood gathering are prohibited.
Are there toilets and picnic facilities?
Yes. Toilets and picnic areas with seating and drinking water are available near Scandretts Bay.
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