Last updated July 2026
Mahurangi West Regional Park lies on the Mahurangi Peninsula about 51 kilometres north of central Auckland. The park features sheltered bays including Otarawao Bay (Sullivans Bay) and Otuawao Bay (Mita Bay), along with native bush, open pasture and historic sites. It serves as a popular destination for camping, swimming and walking, with vehicle access to the main campground and boat or foot access to more remote areas. Te Muri Regional Park lies adjacent and can be reached on foot by crossing the estuary at low tide.
Practical Information
| Location | Mahurangi West, 192 Ngarewa Drive, approximately 51 km north of Auckland |
| Hours | Gates open 6am to 9pm during daylight saving; 6am to 7pm otherwise |
| Day visitor entry | Free |
| Camping | Fees apply; advance booking required through Auckland Council for all sites |
| Facilities | Toilets, picnic areas and water at main sites; conditions vary by season and campground |
| Access | Sullivans Bay vehicle accessible; Mita Bay and Te Muri by foot or boat |
| Dogs | Prohibited at campgrounds and bookable sites; on-leash rules apply in limited areas outside lambing season |
About Mahurangi West Regional Park
The park offers sheltered bays fringed by pōhutukawa trees, native coastal bush and open pasture. It attracts boaties, campers and day visitors year-round for its calm waters and coastal setting. Historic Māori occupation sites are present throughout the area, reflecting long-standing use of the harbour resources.
Sullivans Bay (Otarawao Bay) provides the main vehicle-accessible campground and beach. Mita Bay (Otuawao Bay) offers a quieter, more remote experience reached by track or boat. The park connects to Te Muri Regional Park via a low-tide estuary crossing.
Native bush remnants and pasture provide habitat for local wildlife while supporting a range of recreational activities. The park forms part of Auckland Council’s regional network and remains open to the public outside of temporary road closures.
Walking Tracks
The Cudlip Point Loop Track offers coastal views with some steep sections. The Tungutu Loop Track provides lookout points and links with other paths. The Te Muri Track connects Sullivans Bay to Te Muri Beach through bush and farmland. The Mita Bay Loop Track leads to the northern bay and connects with additional routes in the reserve.
Swimming
All main bays feature sheltered sandy beaches suitable for swimming in calm conditions. Sullivans Bay offers the most accessible family-friendly swimming with vehicle access and picnic facilities. Te Muri and Mita Bay provide quieter swimming spots with a more secluded atmosphere, reachable by foot or boat.
What Visitors Often Say
The beaches remain good at all tides with well-signed walking tracks offering several options. The park provides a peaceful setting close to Auckland for camping and swimming.
Visitors describe the bays as beautiful and sheltered, ideal for multi-day camping with easy swimming and a remote feel despite the short drive from the city.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Mahurangi West Regional Park: official page with maps, booking information, facilities and current access details.
Auckland Council – Mahurangi Regional Park map: downloadable PDF showing tracks, bays and access points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book camping at Mahurangi West Regional Park?
Yes. All campgrounds require advance booking through Auckland Council. Walk-up camping is not available.
What is the difference between the bays?
Sullivans Bay (Otarawao) is the largest and vehicle accessible. Mita Bay (Otuawao) is more remote via track or boat. Te Muri lies in the adjacent regional park and is reached on foot at low tide.
Is there drinking water at the park?
Water is available at main sites but availability varies by season. Check the Auckland Council website before visiting and bring a supply if needed.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are prohibited at campgrounds and bookable sites. On-leash access applies in limited areas such as Mita Bay beach outside lambing season and on certain tracks in summer.
Can I swim at the park?
Yes. The sheltered bays provide generally calm swimming conditions. Sullivans Bay is the most accessible option for families.
How far is the park from Auckland?
Approximately 51 kilometres north of central Auckland, about a 50-minute drive via SH1 and Mahurangi West Road.
Are there boat access options?
Yes. Mita Bay and Te Muri are accessible by boat in addition to walking tracks.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.