Last updated July 2026
Tāwharanui Regional Park lies on the eastern end of the Tāwharanui Peninsula, about 85 km north of central Auckland. The 588-hectare park combines white-sand beaches, rolling farmland, regenerating wetlands and native coastal forest. A predator-proof fence erected in 2004 created New Zealand’s first open sanctuary, allowing native birds such as North Island brown kiwi, takahē and pāteke to return while keeping the area open to day visitors and campers. The surrounding waters form the 394-hectare Tāwharanui Marine Reserve, where fishing is prohibited. Anchor Bay provides sheltered swimming and the park offers multiple walking tracks and guided night kiwi tours.
Practical Information
| Address | 1181 Takatu Road, Tāwharanui Peninsula, Auckland |
| Hours | Open year-round; vehicle gate at sanctuary fence operates 6am–9pm daylight saving, 6am–7pm otherwise |
| Entry | Free for day visitors |
| Camping | From 1 July 2026: $18.50 per adult per night, $7 per child; advance booking required; no power or bins |
| Facilities | Toilets at campground; rubbish-free park (take all waste with you); no café on site |
| Marine reserve | Waters around the peninsula form a no-take marine reserve |
| Dogs | Prohibited inside the open sanctuary at all times |
| Access from Auckland | Approximately 85 km / 80-minute drive via SH1 then Warkworth and Takatu Road |
About the Open Sanctuary
The predator-proof fence runs 2.5 km across the neck of the peninsula and encloses the full 588 hectares of the park. Inside the fence, stoats, rats and possums have been eradicated, allowing native species to recover. North Island brown kiwi, takahē and pāteke are now established, and the sanctuary remains accessible to the public. The Tāwharanui Open Sanctuary Society works in partnership with Auckland Council on pest control and monitoring.
Approximately 170 hectares of the park continue as working farmland with sheep and cattle grazing. This integration of farming, recreation and conservation behind a single fence makes Tāwharanui a distinctive model for open sanctuaries. Interpretive panels along tracks explain the sanctuary’s history and the species visitors may encounter.
Guided night kiwi tours operate from the campground area and provide one of the most reliable opportunities to see wild North Island brown kiwi near Auckland. Tours are run by licensed operators; check current availability directly with Auckland Council or tour providers.
Walking Tracks
The park contains a network of walking tracks that traverse coastal ridges, wetlands and regenerating forest. The South Coast and North Coast Tracks together offer a traverse of Tāwharanui Point with sea views on both sides. The Ecology Trail loops through regenerating forest and is popular for birdwatching. The Mangatawhiri Walk passes through wetland areas, while the West End Path provides beach access and ridge views. Track maps are available on the Auckland Council website.
Beaches and Swimming at Anchor Bay
Anchor Bay is the main swimming beach at Tāwharanui. It is north-facing, sheltered by the peninsula and features golden sand with safe swimming conditions in most weather. The adjacent marine reserve supports clear water and abundant marine life visible while snorkelling. Visitors should check current water quality on the Safeswim website before entering the water. The campground sits directly behind the dunes, giving easy access to the beach and the inland track network.
What Visitors Often Say
Anchor Bay is repeatedly described as one of Auckland’s best swimming beaches, with clean sand, calm water and a spacious feel even on busy days. Many visitors combine beach time with short walks or longer coastal circuits.
Campers highlight the rare experience of staying inside a predator-free sanctuary, noting that hearing kiwi calls at night from their tents is a memorable highlight of the visit.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Tāwharanui Regional Park: official information on access, camping bookings, track maps and current conditions.
Tiaki Tāmaki Makaurau – Tāwharanui Open Sanctuary: details on the sanctuary model, reintroduced species and conservation outcomes.
Department of Conservation – Tāwharanui Marine Reserve: information on the marine reserve, snorkelling and safety guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tāwharanui Regional Park free to visit?
Day visitor entry is free. Camping fees apply and advance booking through Auckland Council is required.
Can I see kiwi at Tāwharanui?
North Island brown kiwi live inside the sanctuary fence. Guided night tours from the campground area offer the most reliable viewing opportunities.
What is the predator-proof fence?
A 2.5 km fence crosses the peninsula neck and encloses the 588-hectare sanctuary. It excludes mammalian predators while allowing public access on foot and by vehicle during opening hours.
Are dogs allowed at Tāwharanui Regional Park?
Dogs and all other pets are prohibited inside the open sanctuary at all times. Registered assistance dogs may be permitted with prior arrangement.
How far in advance should I book camping?
Bookings open up to six months ahead and popular dates fill quickly, especially in summer. Book early via the Auckland Council website.
What is the marine reserve around Tāwharanui?
The 394-hectare Tāwharanui Marine Reserve surrounds the peninsula. Fishing and taking marine life are prohibited, supporting good snorkelling and diving conditions.
Is swimming safe at Anchor Bay?
Anchor Bay is generally suitable for swimming. Always check current water quality and conditions on the Safeswim website before entering the water.
Are there facilities at the park?
Toilets are available at the campground. The park is rubbish-free, so visitors must take all waste away. No café or shop operates on site.
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