Shakespear Regional Park sits at the tip of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, about 50 kilometres northeast of Auckland city. It is one of the most popular regional parks in Auckland, offering excellent swimming beaches, walking tracks through bush and farmland, a predator-free wildlife sanctuary section, and camping. The two main swimming beaches — Te Haruhi Bay and Army Bay — are both suitable for a summer swim, with large grassed areas, pohutukawa trees, and views out to the Hauraki Gulf. There are no lifeguards, so swimming here requires personal judgment about conditions.
Practical Information
| Location | Whangaparāoa Peninsula — approx 50km northeast of Auckland city (about 45–60 min drive) |
| Main swimming beaches | Te Haruhi Bay (largest, most popular); Army Bay (sheltered, good for all tides) |
| Avoid for swimming | Okoromai Bay — very tidal; only swim at high tide |
| Lifeguards | None |
| Facilities | Toilets, picnic areas, BBQs; camping (booking required) |
| Walking tracks | Multiple routes from 30 min to several hours; wildlife sanctuary section |
| Dogs | Not permitted in the wildlife sanctuary section |
| Entry | Free (camping fees apply) |
About Shakespear Regional Park
The park covers the full tip of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula — a significant chunk of coastal land that includes farmland, native bush, and extensive beachfront. It was converted to a regional park in the 1960s and has since had a predator-free fenced sanctuary established within it, supporting kiwi, tūturuatū (shore plover), and other native birds that visitors may encounter on the walking tracks.
Te Haruhi Bay is the centrepiece of the park — a wide, curving beach with large grassed areas backed by pohutukawa trees, leading down to calm and generally safe swimming water. It is the most popular spot in the park on summer weekends. Army Bay, on the eastern side of the peninsula, is quieter and sheltered, with reliable conditions for swimming at most tides. Okoromai Bay is best avoided for swimming due to extreme tidal variation — it can drain almost completely at low tide.
Walking Tracks and Wildlife
The park has a range of walking tracks accessible from the carpark, ranging from short easy walks to longer routes that circuit the whole peninsula tip. The predator-free sanctuary section requires passing through a biosecurity gate — the extra effort is worthwhile as the bird life is noticeably richer inside. Native species including takahē, tūturuatū, kiwi (nocturnal — not likely seen in daytime), and various seabirds use the sanctuary area. The clifftop tracks provide excellent views over the Hauraki Gulf and back along the Whangaparāoa Peninsula.
What Visitors Say
“Shakespear is one of those parks that ticks all the boxes — good swimming, great walks, wildlife, and enough space to escape the crowds even on a busy summer day. Te Haruhi Bay is beautiful and the water is genuinely inviting on a hot day. Army Bay is worth the short extra drive if you want something quieter.” — visitor review, Auckland NZ
Where to Learn More
- Auckland Council — Shakespear Regional Park: Official park information including track maps, camping bookings and facilities.
- Auckland NZ — Shakespear Regional Park: Tourism overview with visitor tips and highlights.
- Albom Adventures — Shakespear Park Guide: Detailed first-person guide covering beaches, walks and the wildlife sanctuary.
FAQ
Which beach at Shakespear is best for swimming?
Te Haruhi Bay is the main beach and most popular for swimming — it is large, sheltered, and generally calm. Army Bay is a quieter alternative with reliable conditions. Avoid Okoromai Bay for swimming — it is very tidal.
Are there lifeguards at Shakespear Regional Park?
No. All beaches at Shakespear are unpatrolled. Swim with care and check SafeSwim before visiting.
Can I camp at Shakespear Regional Park?
Yes — there is a campsite in the park. Booking and payment are required in advance through Auckland Council’s regional parks website.
How far is Shakespear from Auckland?
About 50km northeast of Auckland city, at the tip of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula. Allow 45–60 minutes depending on traffic on the peninsula road.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not permitted in the predator-free wildlife sanctuary section. Check the Auckland Council park page for current dog rules in other areas.
Shakespear pairs well with nearby Long Bay Regional Park, which has a patrolled beach. See the full guide to swimming in Auckland for more options.