Waharau Regional Park extends from the gravelly shoreline of the Firth of Thames into the eastern foothills of the Hunua Ranges — a quiet, less-visited park about 65 kilometres southeast of Auckland near Whakatīwai. It combines coastal access, farmland, river valleys and bush walks that connect into the broader Hunua Ranges track network.
Practical Information
| Location | Whakatīwai, approximately 65 km southeast of Auckland via SH2 and Kawakawa Bay Coast Road |
| Entry | Free |
| Camping | Tainui Campground — 6 powered sites, ablution block with hot showers and toilets. Blackberry Flats Campground also available. Book through Auckland Council |
| Facilities | Toilets, BBQ areas, picnic areas, campground amenities |
| Swimming | Waihihi Bay on the Firth of Thames coast — sheltered, gravelly beach |
| Track Note | Waharau Bush Track closed until further notice — check Auckland Council website before visiting |
| Dogs | On-leash in designated areas |
About Waharau Regional Park
Waharau is one of the quieter entries in Auckland’s regional park network. It sits between the Waharau Stream to the north and Waihihi Bay to the south, with the coastal edge on the Firth of Thames and the park extending westward into the Hunua foothills. The Firth of Thames coast here is gravelly rather than sandy, with a different mood to the north Auckland beaches — more open and exposed, with long views across the water to the Coromandel.
The park’s inland section connects to some of the more serious walking tracks in the Hunua Ranges, making it a gateway for those wanting to explore the ranges from the eastern side. The riverside environment along the Waharau Stream provides habitat for native birds, and the park’s relative remoteness means fewer visitors than the northern parks.
Walking Tracks
The Waharau Bush Walk (45 minutes, 2.4 km) is the main short option — however, note that this track is currently closed until further notice. Check the Auckland Council website for current status before visiting. The Waharau Ridge Track (3.5 hours, 14 km) is a more substantial route that climbs into the Hunua foothills. Both tracks explore the bush and farmland character of the park’s inland section.
Camping at Waharau
Waharau has two campgrounds. Tainui Campground is the main facility, with six powered sites and a solid amenity block including hot showers and toilets — above average for an Auckland regional park campground. Blackberry Flats Campground offers a more basic option by a clear stream. Both require advance booking through Auckland Council. A CSC self-contained vehicle parking area is also available.
What Visitors Say
“Very peaceful and uncrowded. The campground facilities were great — hot showers were a nice touch. Beautiful views across the Firth of Thames. A bit of a drive from Auckland but worth it for the quiet.” — TripAdvisor reviewer
“One of the most underrated regional parks near Auckland. We had the campground almost to ourselves mid-week. Great base for exploring the Hunua Ranges and the coast is lovely at sunset.” — Google reviewer
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Waharau Regional Park — official page with campground booking, current track status and facility information.
Auckland Council — Tainui Campground at Waharau — specific campground page with booking details, facilities and site information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Waharau Regional Park from Auckland?
About 65 kilometres southeast of central Auckland via State Highway 2 and the Kawakawa Bay Coast Road — roughly 1 to 1.5 hours by car.
Are the walking tracks open at Waharau?
The Waharau Bush Track is currently closed until further notice. The Waharau Ridge Track may be open — check the Auckland Council website for current track status before visiting.
Is the campground at Waharau good?
Tainui Campground is well-regarded for a regional park — it has powered sites and hot showers, which is relatively uncommon. Blackberry Flats is more basic. Both require advance booking.
Is swimming available at Waharau?
Yes. Waihihi Bay on the Firth of Thames provides coastal access. The beach is gravelly rather than sandy, with sheltered swimming conditions.
Can I access the Hunua Ranges from Waharau?
Yes. The Waharau Ridge Track connects into the eastern Hunua Ranges walking network. It is a substantial half-day walk (3.5 hours, 14 km) suitable for fit, experienced walkers.
Are dogs allowed at Waharau Regional Park?
Dogs are permitted on-lead in designated areas. Check current rules with Auckland Council before visiting.
More Auckland Parks and Reserves
Waharau is the eastern gateway to the Hunua Ranges. For another perspective on this landscape, the Auckland parks and reserves hub covers the full regional park network including parks on the western and northern edges of the region.