Muriwai Regional Park stretches along the west Auckland coast about 45 kilometres from Auckland city — a mix of wild black sand beach, sand dunes, coastal bush, and clifftop lookouts above a gannet colony that draws visitors from across the country. The gannet colony at Māori Bay is one of the most accessible in New Zealand, with viewing platforms that put visitors directly above thousands of nesting birds during the breeding season (roughly October to February). Outside of gannet season, the park is still worth visiting for the walking tracks and the particular drama of the west coast — exposed ocean, surf, and wind-shaped dune environments that feel distinctly different from the sheltered eastern parks.
Practical Information
| Location | Muriwai Beach, West Auckland — approx 45 min from Auckland city |
| Gannet colony | At Māori Bay — best October to February; viewing platforms directly above nesting birds |
| Main walks | Muriwai Beach Loop (3mi, ~1.5–2hrs); Heights, Dunes and Beach Loop (longer, more elevation); Gannet Colony Loop (6.5mi) |
| Beach | Wild black sand surf beach — unpatrolled except at designated surf lifesaving area in summer |
| Kauri dieback | Some bush tracks may be temporarily closed — check Auckland Council website before visiting |
| Facilities | Toilets, café, picnic areas near car park |
| Entry | Free |
The Gannet Colony
The gannet colony at Māori Bay is Muriwai’s most distinctive feature. Australasian gannets nest here in large numbers — up to around 1,200 breeding pairs — and the viewing platforms are positioned to give visitors a close, direct view of the nesting activity during the breeding season. The birds are entirely accustomed to human presence at the platforms and continue their normal behaviour regardless of how many people are watching. The colony is active from approximately October through to February or March, after which the adult birds and fledglings disperse to sea for the winter months.
Outside the breeding season, the colony is quiet but the clifftop walk to the viewpoints is still worthwhile for the coastal views over Māori Bay and the black sand beach stretching north.
Walking Tracks
The Muriwai Beach Loop (about 3 miles, 1.5 to 2 hours) is the most popular walk — half through the dunes and half on the beach, looping back to the starting point via the 4WD access track. It gives a good overview of the park’s landscape variety without requiring significant elevation gain. The Heights, Dunes and Beach Loop adds more elevation and takes in wider views — a steep section is rewarded with panoramic views over the beach and gannet colony. The Gannet Colony Loop at 6.5 miles is the longest option, combining the beach, dunes, bush and colony viewpoints in a single circuit.
Note: Kauri dieback disease is a serious conservation concern in the Auckland region. Some bush tracks at Muriwai may be temporarily closed to prevent the spread of the disease to the kauri trees present in the park. Check the Auckland Council website or track signage before starting any bush walks.
What Visitors Say
“The gannet colony is extraordinary — standing on the platform with thousands of birds literally a metre below you, nesting and calling and entirely unbothered by people. Even if you’ve seen gannets before, the scale and closeness of Muriwai is different. The walk through the dunes and back along the beach is a good bonus.” — visitor account, My Guide Auckland
Where to Learn More
- Auckland Council — Muriwai Regional Park: Official park information, track maps and current track closure notices.
- AllTrails — Muriwai Regional Park: Track maps, elevation profiles and 367 community reviews across 5 trails.
- Department of Conservation — Muriwai and Te Henga Area: DOC information on the wider Muriwai coastal area including the gannet colony.
FAQ
When is the Muriwai gannet colony active?
The main breeding season runs approximately October to February. The colony is at its most active and impressive during this period. After February, adult birds and fledglings disperse and the colony is largely empty by winter.
Is Muriwai Beach safe for swimming?
Muriwai is a west coast surf beach with powerful ocean conditions. Swimming is only recommended at the designated surf lifesaving area in summer when lifeguards are on patrol. Always swim between the flags and check SafeSwim before entering the water.
Are there bush track closures at Muriwai?
Some bush tracks may be temporarily closed due to kauri dieback disease management. Check the Auckland Council website for current track status before visiting.
How far is Muriwai from Auckland?
About 45 minutes from central Auckland, heading west through Kumeu and Waimauku.
See the Auckland parks and reserves guide for more regional park options across the network.