Last updated July 2026
The coastal settlements of Beachlands, Maraetai and the nearby rural village of Clevedon form a distinctive part of East Auckland’s Pōhutukawa Coast. Stretching along the Tāmaki Strait in the Hauraki Gulf, these communities offer sheltered beaches, regional parks, coastal walkways and a mix of residential and rural character. Once popular holiday spots that grew into permanent suburbs and a farming centre, the area remains a relaxed escape with ferry access via Pine Harbour, scenic drives and strong connections to Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki history. Visitors come for swimming, walking, picnics and views across to islands such as Waiheke and Motukaraka.
Practical Information
| Location | East Auckland, Pōhutukawa Coast (Beachlands and Maraetai on Tāmaki Strait; Clevedon on Wairoa River) |
| Distance from Auckland CBD | Approximately 20–29 km east/southeast |
| Access | By car via Whitford or Brookby roads; ferry to Pine Harbour Marina (Beachlands); limited bus services |
| Entry cost | Free for beaches, parks and most public areas (camping/accommodation fees apply at regional parks) |
| Best time to visit | Summer for swimming and beaches; year-round for walks and scenery (pōhutukawa flowering in summer) |
| Dog-friendly | Varies; check regional park rules (often restricted or on-leash only; prohibited at some bookable sites) |
| Wheelchair access | Limited; some beach and park facilities accessible, coastal paths may have uneven sections |
| Facilities | Toilets, picnic areas, playgrounds, cafes (e.g. near Maraetai Beach), marina, shops in Beachlands |
| Water quality | Check Safeswim for live beach conditions |
About Beachlands, Maraetai and Clevedon
Beachlands and Maraetai sit side by side on the pōhutukawa-fringed coastline of the Tāmaki Strait, while Clevedon lies a short drive inland and south along the Wairoa River. The wider area is known as the Pōhutukawa Coast and falls within the traditional rohe of Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki. Traditional names include Kahawairahi for the Beachlands area (referring to abundant kahawai) and Maraetai for the sheltered strait itself, meaning a marae enclosed by the tides. The landscape features bays, shelly beaches, estuaries, farmland and headlands with views to the Hunua Ranges and Hauraki Gulf islands.
European settlement and subdivision in the 1920s turned Beachlands and Maraetai into popular holiday destinations with baches and day-trip appeal. Growth accelerated from the 1950s as they became permanent residential communities. Pine Harbour Marina, developed later, provides a key ferry link to central Auckland. Clevedon, founded in the 1850s and named in 1866, developed as a rural service centre focused on dairy farming and remains a village hub with community facilities. The area retains a semi-rural feel, with many properties relying on rainwater tanks rather than town supply.
Key attractions include the Beachlands to Maraetai coastal path (also known as the walkway or cycleway), which links the settlements via Ō Manawatere Regional Park (previously Ōmana Regional Park) and Te Puru. Ō Manawatere offers a shelly beach suitable for swimming at high tide, playground, pā site, farmland walks and panoramic gulf views. Further east, Duder Regional Park occupies the Whakakaiwhara Peninsula near Clevedon, providing 360-degree views, bays such as Waipokaia/Duck Bay and Waiapu Bay/Sandy Bay, and a sense of isolation. Beaches around Beachlands include Sunkist Bay, Shelly Bay and others; Maraetai has Omana Beach, Te Pene Beach and more. Motukaraka Island (Flat Top Island) lies just offshore from Beachlands and is accessible at low tide.
The settlements support local shops, cafes (including near Maraetai Beach and the foreshore), schools and community hubs. Clevedon features a district centre, hall and showgrounds area. The combination of coastal recreation, regional parks managed by Auckland Council, and rural scenery makes the area popular for day trips, family outings and longer stays.
Getting There and Access
By car, the main routes from Auckland run via Whitford or through Brookby and Twilight/West roads toward Clevedon, then north to Beachlands and Maraetai. Road works or conditions can affect routes, so check current advice. Pine Harbour Marina in Beachlands offers ferry services to downtown Auckland, providing a scenic alternative that avoids road traffic. Parking is available at beaches, parks and the marina, though it can fill on busy summer weekends. The Beachlands to Maraetai Path is suitable for walking and cycling and connects key coastal spots. Public transport options are more limited than in central suburbs, so private vehicle or ferry is often preferred for visitors.
Beaches, Parks and Outdoor Activities
Sheltered beaches along the Tāmaki Strait suit swimming, especially at high tide, with golden sands and views to Waiheke Island and other gulf landmarks. Ō Manawatere Regional Park is family-oriented with safe swimming, shade from pōhutukawa, a playground and short walks including to a historic pā site. Duder Regional Park offers more expansive walking, birdwatching and coastal exploration on the peninsula. Coastal paths provide easy to moderate walking or cycling with bush, farmland and sea views. Activities include picnicking, fishing (check regulations), kayaking from the marina area, and exploring Motukaraka Island at low tide. Regional parks are rubbish-free and smoke-free; dogs are subject to specific rules. Always check Safeswim for water quality and conditions before swimming.
History and Cultural Context
Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki have long associations with the coast and Wairoa River, with pā sites, cultivations, fishing grounds and place names linked to ancestors such as Manawatere and Tūrehu traditions. The Tainui waka visited around the 14th century. European contact included the Fairburn purchase and Maraetai Mission Station in the 1830s–1840s. Land alienation followed the Musket Wars period, Native Land Court processes and the Invasion of the Waikato. Holiday subdivisions in the 1920s and post-war residential growth shaped the modern towns. Clevedon retains heritage elements such as All Souls Church. Today the area balances residential living, recreation and ongoing iwi connections, including at Umupuia.
What Visitors Often Say
Many note the scenic winding drive through farmland and nature as a highlight before arriving at Maraetai Beach, where families enjoy swimming, golden sands with views of Waiheke Island, public toilets, amenities and nearby cafes such as the Foreshore Cafe. Weekday visits feel quieter and less crowded than peak holiday periods.
Walkers and families praise the Beachlands to Maraetai Path for spectacular coastal views, a mix of bush and open sections, and suitability for children on scooters or bikes. The path links easily to Ōmana Regional Park facilities and provides a pleasant, accessible outing with good scenery at every stage.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Ō Manawatere Regional Park: Official details on facilities, camping, maps, dog rules and activities at the park between Beachlands and Maraetai.
Auckland Council – Duder Regional Park: Information on the Whakakaiwhara Peninsula park near Clevedon, including history brochure, access and visitor guidelines.
Safeswim: Live water quality and swimming condition updates for Auckland beaches including those on the Pōhutukawa Coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Beachlands, Maraetai and Clevedon from central Auckland?
Drive via Whitford or Brookby routes (around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic and exact destination), or take the ferry to Pine Harbour Marina in Beachlands. Check current road conditions and ferry timetables.
Are the beaches good for swimming?
Yes, the sheltered Tāmaki Strait beaches such as those at Maraetai and Ōmana offer safe swimming especially at high tide. Always check Safeswim for current water quality and conditions.
Is there a walking or cycling path between Beachlands and Maraetai?
Yes, the Beachlands to Maraetai Path follows the coast through Ō Manawatere Regional Park and Te Puru, suitable for walking, cycling and family use with scenic views.
Can I take my dog to the regional parks?
Dogs are allowed in some areas of regional parks under specific rules (often on-leash or designated zones) but are prohibited at bookable accommodation sites except for registered aid dogs. Check Auckland Council park pages for current details.
What facilities are available at Maraetai Beach?
Public toilets, picnic spots, nearby cafes and restaurants (such as Foreshore), parking and access to the coastal path and wharf area are available.
Is Clevedon mainly a beach destination?
Clevedon is a rural village on the Wairoa River with farming heritage, community facilities and proximity to beaches such as Umupuia and parks like Duder Regional Park rather than being a primary beach town itself.
Is Motukaraka Island accessible?
Yes, the flat-topped island near Beachlands and Pine Harbour is reachable on foot at low tide from the shore. Check tides carefully and respect the environment.
Are there camping options in the area?
Yes, Auckland Council regional parks such as Ō Manawatere and Duder offer bookable campgrounds, overnight parking and related accommodation. Book in advance via the council website.
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