Torbay is the northernmost of the East Coast Bays Auckland suburbs — a coastal clifftop community with sheltered Torbay Beach, Long Bay Regional Park just to the north, and a strong local community feel that distinguishes it from the busier southern East Coast Bays.
Practical Information
| Location | Upper East Coast Bays, North Shore Auckland, immediately south of Long Bay |
| Distance to CBD | ~22 km — about 30 min drive via SH1 |
| Local board | Hibiscus and Bays Local Board |
| Standout features | Torbay Beach, Waiake Beach, clifftop views, walking distance to Long Bay |
| Transport | Buses on East Coast Road; SH1 motorway access |
| Character | Established coastal community with strong local character and harbour views |
About Torbay
Torbay is the northernmost of the East Coast Bays suburbs — sitting between Waiake (south) and Long Bay (north), with sheltered Torbay Beach as the central recreational asset. The suburb has a strong local community feel built around the Torbay village shops, the surf-lifesaving club, and the local schools. Clifftop residential streets give substantial Hauraki Gulf views, with property prices reflecting that.
Torbay and Waiake Beaches
Torbay actually has access to two small sheltered beaches — Torbay Beach (the main beach with the surf-lifesaving club) and Waiake Beach (a smaller cove just south). Both are sheltered Hauraki Gulf swimming spots with reliable family conditions. The Torbay Surf Life Saving Club patrols both beaches in summer. The “Tor” rock formations in Torbay Beach are a distinctive geological feature giving the suburb its name.
Walking Distance to Long Bay
Torbay’s geographic position immediately south of Long Bay Regional Park gives walking access to one of Auckland’s premier beach destinations — the long sand beach plus regional park amenities of Long Bay are just along the clifftop from Torbay. Many local residents combine Torbay’s quieter local beach with the bigger Long Bay weekend amenities.
Where to Learn More
Safeswim — Torbay Beach — real-time water quality monitoring.
Torbay Surf Life Saving Club — local patrol club.
Auckland Council — Long Bay Regional Park — adjacent regional park.
Hibiscus and Bays Local Board — local government area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Torbay?
Upper East Coast Bays, North Shore Auckland — immediately south of Long Bay. ~22 km from CBD.
What beaches are at Torbay?
Torbay Beach (main, with surf-lifesaving club) and Waiake Beach (smaller cove south) — both sheltered Hauraki Gulf swimming.
Are the beaches patrolled?
Yes — Torbay Surf Life Saving Club patrols in summer.
How close is Long Bay?
Walking distance along the clifftops to Long Bay Regional Park — Auckland’s most-visited regional park.
For more East Coast Bays see Auckland Suburbs — including Long Bay Regional Park.