Shakespear Regional Park sits at the tip of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, about 40 kilometres north of Auckland—a 528-hectare open sanctuary where native birds roam freely across coastal farmland, wetlands and bush. The park’s three bays offer safe swimming, and its network of walking tracks passes World War II gun emplacements, wetlands and cliff-top lookouts with views across the Hauraki Gulf to Tiri Tiri Matangi Island.
Practical Information
| Location | Whangaparāoa Peninsula, 40 km north of Auckland |
| Access | Army Bay Road, Whangaparāoa (automated gate: 6am–9pm daylight saving, 6am–7pm otherwise) |
| Entry | Free |
| Camping | Te Haruhi Bay campground — bookable through Auckland Council (advance booking required) |
| Facilities | Flush toilets, cold showers, BBQs, drinking fountains, picnic areas |
| Swimming | Te Haruhi Bay, Okoromai Bay, Army Bay — all safe swimming beaches |
| Dogs | Not permitted — open sanctuary |
About Shakespear Regional Park
Shakespear is one of Auckland’s most visited regional parks, and the reason is clear: it combines a long sandy beach, native bush, coastal farmland and genuine wildlife in a compact, accessible location. The park is an open sanctuary — predator-controlled but unfenced, meaning native birds including pēpeke (bellbird), kōtare (kingfisher) and weka move through the landscape freely. The campground at Te Haruhi Bay sits directly behind the beach, with views across the gulf and an easy walk to the park’s network of tracks.
The peninsula setting gives the park a distinctive character: the sea is visible from most of the higher tracks, and on clear days you can see across to Tiri Tiri Matangi Island — the offshore wildlife sanctuary and day-trip destination. Auckland Council manages the park jointly with Ngāti Manuhiri and Te Kawerau ā Maki.
Walking Tracks
There are around 15 kilometres of walking tracks in total, ranging from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. The Heritage Trail passes through native forest, wetlands and farmland to reach a World War II gun emplacement overlooking the gulf — a popular hour-long circuit. The Tiri Tiri Track follows the cliff line with views across to Tiri Tiri Matangi Island and past the remnants of an old Māori settlement. Shorter options include the Te Haruhi Bay Walk along the beach foreshore and the lookout track, which rewards a gentle climb with panoramic gulf views.
Swimming and the Beach
Te Haruhi Bay is the main beach — a long stretch of golden sand sheltered enough for families and generally calm during summer. Okoromai Bay and Army Bay are quieter alternatives on the eastern side of the peninsula. All three are unpatrolled, so swim with care outside peak season. The estuarine area at Okoromai offers a different experience — wading, birdwatching and a more sheltered setting than the open beach.
Camping at Te Haruhi Bay
The Te Haruhi Bay campground is one of the most popular in Auckland’s regional park network. Sites are bookable up to six months in advance through Auckland Council, and they fill quickly over summer and school holidays. Facilities include flush toilets, cold showers, BBQ areas and drinking water points. The campground sits right behind the beach — a short walk from the water. The CSC (self-contained vehicle) parking area near Army Bay offers a separate option for campervans.
What Visitors Say
“Beautiful park with a great beach and lots of birdlife. The heritage track is well worth the walk — the gun emplacements are a surprising highlight. We saw weka pottering around the campground.” — TripAdvisor reviewer
“The beach at Te Haruhi Bay is stunning — perfect for a family day out. Easy drive from Auckland and the facilities are good. Get there early on summer weekends as the car park fills fast.” — Google reviewer
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Shakespear Regional Park — official park page with track maps, campground booking, facility details and current closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book to visit Shakespear Regional Park?
Day visits are free and no booking is required. Camping at Te Haruhi Bay campground requires advance booking through Auckland Council — book early for summer dates.
Are dogs allowed at Shakespear Regional Park?
No. Dogs are not permitted anywhere in the park. It is an open sanctuary where native birds are actively protected.
What time does the park gate open?
The automated vehicle gate at Army Bay opens at 6am. It closes at 9pm during daylight saving and 7pm at other times. Pedestrian access is available 24 hours.
Can I see kiwi at Shakespear Regional Park?
The park is a predator-controlled sanctuary but kiwi are not currently established there. Tiri Tiri Matangi Island offshore is the better option for kiwi encounters and can be reached by ferry from Gulf Harbour.
Is Shakespear Regional Park accessible by public transport?
Partially. Bus services run to Whangaparāoa but the park itself is a further drive or walk from the end of the bus route. Most visitors arrive by car.
How far is Shakespear Regional Park from Auckland city?
Approximately 40 kilometres from central Auckland — around 45 minutes to one hour by car via the Northern Motorway and Whangaparāoa Road.
More Auckland Parks and Reserves
Shakespear is one of the most accessible of Auckland’s northern coastal parks. For a quieter alternative on the same peninsula, explore Long Bay Regional Park on the North Shore. Browse the full network at Auckland parks and reserves.