Shakespeare Beach (Te Haruhi Bay) at Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula is one of north Auckland’s most accessible beach-fishing spots — sheltered Hauraki Gulf swimming beach by day, productive surfcasting and rock-fishing destination by evening, with both wharf and rock access nearby.
Practical Information
| Address | Te Haruhi Bay, Shakespear Regional Park, Whangaparāoa |
| From central Auckland | ~40 km north — about 45 min drive via SH1 |
| Setting | Sheltered Hauraki Gulf beach within 500-ha Shakespear Regional Park |
| Main species | Snapper, kahawai, gurnard, occasional kingfish off the rocks |
| Fishing style | Surfcasting; rock fishing at headlands |
| Best tide | Rising tide, dawn and dusk |
| Licence | No saltwater licence required; bag limits apply |
| Cost | Free park entry |
About Shakespeare Beach Fishing
Te Haruhi Bay — commonly called Shakespeare Beach — is the main swimming beach at Shakespear Regional Park on the eastern tip of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula. While the bay is a busy family swimming spot during the day, the beach and surrounding rocks fish well at dawn, dusk and evening hours when the swimmers have gone. The combination of sheltered conditions, regional park amenities (toilets, parking, picnic areas) and consistent fishing makes it one of the more accessible north Auckland fishing destinations.
What You’ll Catch
Snapper come close on the rising tide, particularly through the spring spawning run. Kahawai are year-round and aggressive at low light. Gurnard from the deeper sand. Kingfish patrol the rocky headlands at the bay’s edges in summer — requiring rock-fishing gear and live baits. Standard surfcasting setups work for the beach; heavier gear for the rocks.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Shakespear Regional Park — park information including fishing-relevant areas.
MPI / Fisheries NZ — daily bag and size limits.
Fishing.net.nz — NZ recreational fishing community.
MetService — Hauraki Gulf marine forecast — daily tide and forecast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Shakespeare Beach?
Te Haruhi Bay at Shakespear Regional Park, Whangaparāoa tip. About 45 min from central Auckland.
Is it busy?
Busy with swimmers during the day; quieter for fishing at dawn, dusk and evenings.
Are dogs allowed?
No — Shakespear Regional Park is an open sanctuary, no dogs permitted.
Can I camp nearby?
Yes — Auckland Council’s Shakespear campground is bookable online.
For more north Auckland fishing see Fishing in Auckland — and Shakespear Regional Park.