Last updated July 2026
Ō Manawatere Regional Park (previously known as Ōmana Regional Park) lies on the Maraetai coast between Beachlands and Maraetai, roughly 40 kilometres southeast of central Auckland. This compact coastal park offers Hauraki Gulf views, a shelly swimming beach, clifftop camping and a short network of farm and coastal walks. The park sits on a gently contoured knoll that provides outstanding views across the inner Hauraki Gulf, including Rangitoto and Motuihe islands. It functions as a convenient family escape with easy access from the city yet enough separation to feel like a genuine getaway.
Practical Information
| Location | Omana Beach Road, Maraetai, between Beachlands and Maraetai |
| Entry | Free (camping and bookable sites incur fees) |
| Camping | Cliff Top campground — book through Auckland Council in advance |
| Beach | Shelly beach offering safe swimming at high tide; rock pools and shore platforms at low tide |
| Views | Outstanding views of the inner Hauraki Gulf from the knoll, including Rangitoto and Motuihe |
| Facilities | Playground, picnic areas, BBQs, toilets, flat grass areas, bookable picnic sites |
| Walking Tracks | Lookout Walk (short); Farm Walk (15 min, 600 m); Perimeter Track (approx. 2.7 km, 60 min) |
| Dogs | Prohibited at bookable sites and accommodation; check current dog walking rules on the Auckland Council site or on-site signage |
About Ō Manawatere Regional Park
Ō Manawatere Regional Park occupies a small peninsula-like setting with sea frontage on multiple sides. The shelly beach provides calm, shallow swimming conditions at high tide that suit families and children. At low tide the receding water reveals extensive rock pools and shore platforms that invite exploration.
The park’s elevated knoll delivers panoramic views across the inner Hauraki Gulf. On clear days visitors can see Rangitoto’s volcanic cone, Motuihe Island and the broader gulf waters. Shady pōhutukawa trees line parts of the foreshore and provide natural shelter for picnics.
The park includes an intriguing pā site and farmland areas that add historical and rural interest. It remains a popular day-trip destination for Aucklanders seeking coastal access without a long drive.
Family Walks
The walks at Ō Manawatere Regional Park are short, easy and well suited to families with children of varying ages. The Lookout Walk provides quick access to the best elevated viewpoints. The Ōmana Farm Walk takes about 15 minutes and covers 600 metres through open paddocks, offering gentle terrain and opportunities to see farm animals.
The Perimeter Track forms a longer coastal loop of approximately 2.7 kilometres that takes around 60 minutes. It combines cliff-top sections with foreshore access, shady pōhutukawa areas and open farmland. All tracks feature easy gradients and are suitable for most fitness levels, making them ideal for family outings with prams or young walkers.
Camping at Ō Manawatere Regional Park
The Cliff Top campground sits on gently sloping grass above the beach with rows of tall trees providing some shelter. It offers vehicle-based camping with sea views and is popular during summer. Bookings must be made through Auckland Council, with availability opening six months ahead. The site has a maximum capacity of 100 people and basic shared facilities. Early booking is essential for peak periods.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the safe shallow swimming at high tide and the engaging rock pools at low tide. The elevated views over the gulf and the easy walking tracks make it a convenient and enjoyable day out close to Auckland.
Campers highlight the clifftop location and sunrise views across the water. Reviewers note that the park fills quickly in summer and recommend booking well ahead for the campground and picnic sites.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Ō Manawatere Regional Park: official page with current facilities, maps, booking links and rules.
Auckland Council — Cliff Top campground: details on camping availability, pricing and booking requirements.
Auckland Council Paths — Ōmana Perimeter Track: track description, distance and access information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ō Manawatere Regional Park from Auckland?
Approximately 40 kilometres southeast of central Auckland, between Beachlands and Maraetai.
Is the beach suitable for swimming?
Yes. The shelly beach offers safe, shallow swimming at high tide. Rock pools and shore platforms appear at low tide.
How do I book camping?
Book the Cliff Top campground online through Auckland Council up to six months in advance. Summer periods fill quickly.
What walks are best for families?
The short Lookout Walk and 15-minute Farm Walk suit younger children. The Perimeter Track offers a longer coastal option of about 2.7 km.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are prohibited at all bookable sites and accommodation. Check the Auckland Council dog walking section for current rules that apply to the wider park.
Are there picnic facilities?
Yes. The park provides picnic tables, BBQs, a playground and bookable picnic sites near the beach and other locations.
Is the park open year-round?
Yes. Gates have seasonal opening hours; check the Auckland Council page for current times.
What is the park’s highest point?
The gently contoured knoll provides the main viewpoints over the Hauraki Gulf.
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