Last updated July 2026
Shakespear Regional Park (Te Hāruhi) occupies the tip of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, around 50 kilometres or a 40- to 50-minute drive north of central Auckland. The 500-hectare park functions as an open sanctuary with a pest-proof fence, supporting native birds amid coastal farmland, wetlands, regenerating bush and cliffs. Three sheltered bays provide swimming opportunities, while walking tracks lead to historic sites including World War II gun emplacements and offer views across the Hauraki Gulf to Tiritiri Matangi Island. Auckland Council manages the park in partnership with mana whenua.
Practical Information
| Location | 1507 Whangaparāoa Road, Army Bay, Whangaparāoa Peninsula |
| Access | Automated gate at Army Bay opens 6am–9pm during daylight saving and 6am–7pm otherwise; pedestrian access 24 hours |
| Entry | Free |
| Camping | Te Haruhi Bay campground; bookable through Auckland Council up to six months ahead |
| Facilities | Flush toilets, cold showers, BBQs, drinking water, picnic areas; rubbish-free park |
| Swimming | Te Haruhi Bay, Okoromai Bay and Army Bay; check Safeswim for conditions |
| Dogs | Not permitted anywhere in the park |
About Shakespear Regional Park
Shakespear Regional Park combines recreation, conservation and farming on a compact peninsula headland. A 1.7-kilometre pest-proof fence creates a predator-controlled open sanctuary where native species can thrive while visitors enjoy the landscape. Parts of the park remain in farmland, with gullies, wetlands and restoration plantings protected from stock.
The park’s coastal setting provides sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf and nearby islands on clear days. Historic features include remnants of Māori settlement and World War II military installations. Auckland Council works with mana whenua on management and has restored the dual name Te Hāruhi / Shakespear Regional Park.
Facilities support day visits and overnight stays, with the main campground located directly behind Te Haruhi Bay beach. The park is one of Auckland’s busiest regional parks and attracts families, walkers and wildlife enthusiasts year-round.
Walking Tracks
Marked tracks range from short beach strolls to longer loops with cliff-top views. The Heritage Trail (3.9 km, 2 hours return) passes native forest, wetlands, farmland and a World War II gun emplacement. The Tiritiri Track (4.8 km, 2 hours return) follows the coast past an old Māori settlement area and offers views of Tiritiri Matangi Island. The Lookout Track (2.5 km, 1 hour return) climbs to a 360-degree viewpoint. Additional short options include the Kanuka Track through regenerating bush.
Swimming at Shakespear Regional Park
Te Haruhi Bay is the primary swimming beach, a long stretch of sand sheltered by the peninsula and popular with families. Okoromai Bay and Army Bay on the eastern side provide quieter alternatives. All three beaches are suitable for swimming, though none are patrolled. The estuarine area at Okoromai Bay offers sheltered wading and birdwatching. Visitors should check current water quality on the Safeswim website before entering the water.
Camping at Te Haruhi Bay
The Te Haruhi Bay campground sits directly behind the main beach and is one of Auckland’s most popular regional park camping sites. Tent sites, powered and non-powered options, and a separate CSC (self-contained vehicle) area near Army Bay are available. Facilities include flush toilets, cold showers, BBQs and drinking water. Advance booking through Auckland Council is required; sites fill quickly during summer and school holidays. A gate code is provided with confirmed bookings.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the combination of beach access, birdlife and easy walking tracks. Many highlight the Heritage Trail and gun emplacements as unexpected highlights, along with weka and other native birds around the campground and beach areas. Families note the calm waters at Te Haruhi Bay and good facilities, while recommending early arrival on summer weekends to secure parking.
Reviewers frequently mention the scenic coastal views, especially from the lookout and Tiritiri Track, and the convenience of beachfront camping. Some note that the park can become busy on fine weekends and that the pest-free status supports visible native wildlife. Campervan users appreciate the dedicated CSC area and overall maintenance.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Te Hāruhi / Shakespear Regional Park: official page with maps, booking links, facility details and current information.
Safeswim: real-time water quality and swimming safety information for Auckland beaches including Shakespear.
Shakespear Open Sanctuary Society: volunteer group information on conservation work and how to support the sanctuary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book to visit Shakespear Regional Park?
Day visits are free and do not require booking. Camping at Te Haruhi Bay requires advance booking through Auckland Council.
Are dogs allowed at Shakespear Regional Park?
No. Dogs and all other pets are prohibited throughout the open sanctuary to protect native wildlife.
What time does the park gate open?
The automated vehicle gate opens at 6am and closes at 9pm during daylight saving or 7pm at other times. Pedestrian access remains available 24 hours.
Can I see kiwi at Shakespear Regional Park?
Kiwi are not currently present. Tiritiri Matangi Island, visible from the park, offers kiwi viewing opportunities via ferry from Gulf Harbour.
Is Shakespear Regional Park accessible by public transport?
Bus services reach Whangaparāoa, but the park is a further drive or walk from the nearest stop. Most visitors arrive by car.
How far is Shakespear Regional Park from Auckland city?
Approximately 50 kilometres from central Auckland, a 40- to 50-minute drive via the Northern Motorway and Whangaparāoa Road.
Are the beaches patrolled?
No. All beaches are unpatrolled; check Safeswim for water quality and swim safely.
Is there a Māori name for the park?
Yes. The park is also known as Te Hāruhi / Shakespear Regional Park following recent restoration of the traditional name.
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