Mahurangi Regional Park is a coastal park on the Mahurangi Peninsula, about 50 kilometres north of Auckland near Warkworth. The park covers three distinct bays — Sullivans Bay, Te Muri, and Mita Bay — connected by walking tracks through native coastal bush and Mahurangi Scenic Reserve. It is one of the most popular camping destinations in Auckland’s regional park network, with a variety of campsite options from drive-in at Sullivans Bay to walk-in and boat-access at the more remote bays. Pohutukawa line the foreshore, the swimming is sheltered, and the walking connects across the full length of the park.
Practical Information
| Location | Mahurangi Peninsula, approximately 50 km north of Auckland (30 minutes north of Warkworth) |
| Hours | Park entrance gates close at 9pm; year-round access |
| Day visitor entry | Free |
| Camping | Fees apply; advance booking essential through Auckland Council; all campgrounds require prior reservation |
| Facilities | Toilets and picnic areas at each bay; some facilities are basic (long drop); check water availability before visit |
| Access | Sullivans Bay: road-accessible; Te Muri and Mita Bay: walk-in (from Sullivans Bay) or boat access only |
| Access from Auckland | Approximately 50 km north via SH1 and Mahurangi East Road; allow 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Dogs | Permitted in some areas on a lead; check Auckland Council website for current dog access map |
About the Three Bays
Sullivans Bay is the largest and most accessible campground, directly reachable by car. The bay is sheltered and north-facing with a sandy beach suitable for swimming across most conditions. Pohutukawa grow along the shoreline and provide shade for picnicking. This is the busiest part of the park and the starting point for walking to the other bays.
Te Muri Beach is a walk-in campground approximately 45 minutes from Sullivans Bay via the Te Muri Track through native bush. The beach here is quieter and the campground smaller, with a more remote feel despite being within easy reach of the car park. Mita Bay, the most secluded of the three, is accessible by foot through Mahurangi Scenic Reserve or by boat — a peaceful site that sees fewer visitors than the other campgrounds.
Multiple pā sites within the park reflect centuries of Māori occupation of the Mahurangi coastline, taking advantage of the harbour’s resources and the defensible headlands. The native bush through Mahurangi Scenic Reserve is a remnant of the coastal forest that once covered much of this peninsula.
Walking Tracks
The park’s most popular track is the Cudlip Point Path — a well-marked loop with steep sections and hilltop views, rated consistently highly by visitors. The Tungutu Loop Track links Sullivans Bay to the Tungutu Lookout with coastal views. The Te Muri Track connects Sullivans Bay to Te Muri Beach through native bush and is well-suited for those combining a walk with time at the quieter bay. The Mita Bay Track passes through Mahurangi Scenic Reserve to reach the most remote of the park’s three beaches.
What Visitors Say
“This place is a gem — the beach is good at all tides and walking tracks are well signed with a couple of options. Lovely park.” — TripAdvisor reviewer
“THE most beautiful little bay only 45 minutes from Auckland. We camped for four days and had such a wonderful time — easy swimming and peaceful personified.” — TripAdvisor reviewer
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Mahurangi Regional Park — official page with campground information, track maps, booking details, and current facilities for each bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book camping at Mahurangi Regional Park?
Yes. All campgrounds require advance booking through Auckland Council. There is no walk-up camping. Booking early is recommended, particularly for summer and school holiday periods.
What is the difference between the three campgrounds?
Sullivans Bay is road-accessible and the largest. Te Muri is walk-in only (approximately 45 minutes from Sullivans Bay on foot) or accessible by boat. Mita Bay is the most remote — walk-in through Mahurangi Scenic Reserve or by boat. Each has a distinct character; Te Muri and Mita Bay are quieter and more sheltered.
Is there drinking water at Mahurangi Regional Park?
Water availability varies by campground and season. Check the Auckland Council website for current water status before your visit, and consider bringing your own supply.
Are there swimming beaches at Mahurangi?
Yes — all three bays have sandy beaches with sheltered, generally calm swimming conditions. Sullivans Bay is the most accessible and best suited for families. Te Muri and Mita Bay are quieter with a more remote feel.
Can I get to Te Muri by boat?
Yes. Te Muri and Mita Bay are both accessible by boat as well as on foot. If arriving by water, check with Auckland Council for any current conditions or restrictions.
How far is Mahurangi Regional Park from Auckland?
Approximately 50 kilometres north of central Auckland — about one to 1.5 hours by car via SH1 and then Mahurangi East Road. It is roughly 30 minutes north of Warkworth.
More Auckland Parks and Reserves
Mahurangi is the most popular camping destination among Auckland’s northern regional parks. For a closer comparison on the same peninsula, Scandrett Regional Park is nearby with a day-walk focus. For the full network of parks across the region, browse Auckland parks and reserves.