Last updated July 2026
Ātiu Creek Regional Park is an 843-hectare regional park on the Okahukura Peninsula west of Wellsford, overlooking the Kaipara Harbour. The park was gifted to Auckland by Pierre and Jackie Chatelanat and officially opened in 2008. It operates as a working farm with cattle, sheep and lambs, alongside rolling pastures, wetlands, native forest remnants and harbour views. Walking tracks range from short family loops to longer circuits, and horses and mountain bikes are permitted on many trails. The park is currently closed with an expected reopening on 14 September 2026, subject to ground conditions.
Practical Information
| Address | 414 Run Road, Tapora, west of Wellsford |
| Access | Approximately 1.5–2 hours north-west of Auckland city centre |
| Status | Closed until expected reopening on 14 September 2026 (subject to ground conditions) |
| Parking | Car park with public toilets at the trailhead |
| Entry | Free |
| Activities | Walking, mountain biking, horse riding, farm animal viewing, birdwatching |
| Facilities | Public toilets at trailhead; limited other facilities |
About Ātiu Creek Regional Park
Ātiu Creek Regional Park occupies a large area on the Okahukura Peninsula and combines working farmland with natural habitats. The landscape features undulating pastures, wetland areas, stands of native forest and extensive views across the Kaipara Harbour. As one of Auckland’s larger regional parks, it offers a rural character distinct from more forested coastal reserves closer to the city.
The park was transferred to public ownership through a gift from Pierre and Jackie Chatelanat, with the formal opening occurring in 2008. It continues to function as a working farm, with livestock grazing throughout much of the area. Visitors share the paddocks with cattle and sheep, which are accustomed to people on the tracks.
Wetlands and harbour margins support wading birds and waterfowl, while elevated sections of the trails provide opportunities to observe shorebirds on the Kaipara mudflats. The combination of farmland, wetlands and harbour scenery creates a varied setting for walking and other recreational activities.
Walking Tracks and Other Activities
Short options include the Ti Tree Point Trail, a 15-minute, 1 km loop suitable for families. The Reservoir Walk covers 5 km and takes about two hours; it is accessible with a mountain buggy and offers harbour views. A moderate 4.5-mile (7.2 km) loop is popular for a half-day outing.
Longer routes include the Oruawharo River Trail, a 7.8 km loop taking 2.5–3 hours that passes through wetland and riverine environments. The Runabout Track (also known as the Okahukura or Taporapora Peninsula circuit) is approximately 13–14 km and requires a full day, with notable elevation gain and views of Solomon’s Bay and the Ātiu Creek inlet.
Horses and mountain bikes are permitted on many tracks. Overnight camping with horses can be arranged in advance through Auckland Council. The park’s rural setting and farm animals add interest for children on the shorter, easier trails.
The Farm and Birdlife
Ātiu Creek remains an active working farm, with livestock moving freely through the paddocks that visitors traverse. This ongoing agricultural use is central to the park’s character and appeal. The wetlands and harbour edges attract a range of bird species, including waders and waterfowl, while the open farmland and forest remnants support additional native and introduced birds.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe Ātiu Creek as a hidden gem with rolling farmland and rewarding harbour views. Many appreciate the variety of walking options, the presence of farm animals as part of the experience, and the sense of space on the longer circuits. Reviewers note it is well worth the drive from Auckland for a full day out.
Walkers highlight the peaceful rural atmosphere, good track conditions on the main routes, and opportunities to combine walking with wildlife observation. Some mention the longer circuit as a satisfying challenge with varied scenery, while shorter loops suit families or those seeking a quicker visit.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Ātiu Creek Regional Park: Official page with current status, track details, maps and facilities information.
Auckland Council — Ātiu Creek Regional Park map: Detailed track map and descriptions of walking, biking and horse routes.
Wikipedia — Ātiu Creek Regional Park: Background on the park’s history, gifting and location, citing primary sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ātiu Creek Regional Park from Auckland?
Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours north-west of Auckland city centre, on the Okahukura Peninsula west of Wellsford.
Is Ātiu Creek Regional Park currently open?
No. The park is closed with an expected reopening on 14 September 2026, depending on ground conditions.
Are horses and bikes allowed at Ātiu Creek Regional Park?
Yes. Horses and mountain bikes are permitted on many tracks, and overnight camping with horses can be arranged in advance.
What is the longest walk at Ātiu Creek Regional Park?
The Runabout Track (Okahukura/Taporapora Peninsula circuit) is approximately 13–14 km and takes a full day, with views of Solomon’s Bay and the Ātiu Creek inlet.
Is there parking at Ātiu Creek Regional Park?
Yes. There is a car park with public toilets at the trailhead at 414 Run Road, Tapora.
Is Ātiu Creek Regional Park good for families?
Yes. The shorter tracks, such as the Ti Tree Point Trail (15 minutes) and Reservoir Walk, are suitable for families, and the working farm animals add interest for children.
Is entry to Ātiu Creek Regional Park free?
Yes. Entry is free, although the park is currently closed until the expected reopening date.
Can I camp at Ātiu Creek Regional Park?
Overnight camping with horses is possible with advance arrangement through Auckland Council; standard camping options are limited.
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