Last updated July 2026
Wenderholm Regional Park (also known as Maungatauhoro / Wenderholm) lies at the mouth of the Pūhoi River north of Auckland, where the river meets the Hauraki Gulf. Auckland’s first regional park, it opened to the public on 18 December 1965 and covers 135 hectares of beach, estuary, native bush and heritage grounds. The sheltered curving beach and warmer river-mouth lagoon make it a popular family swimming destination, while short walking tracks and Couldrey House add heritage and nature options. The park offers free entry with paid options for camping and house visits, and remains one of Auckland Council’s most visited regional parks for day trips and overnight stays.
Practical Information
| Address | 37 Schischka Road, Waiwera, north Auckland |
| From central Auckland | Approximately 50 km north, 40–50 minute drive via SH1 |
| Park size | 135 hectares of beach, estuary, bush and heritage grounds |
| Swimming | Sheltered Hauraki Gulf beach and Pūhoi River mouth lagoon |
| Facilities | Toilets, changing rooms, BBQs, picnic areas, playground, campground, bookable sites |
| Heritage | Couldrey House museum open weekends 1–4 pm year-round and selected weekdays in summer |
| Parking | Free park parking |
| Dogs | Allowed under control in designated areas only (on or off lead in specific grass and track sections); prohibited at bookable sites and accommodation |
| Cost | Free park entry; $7 adult entry to Couldrey House; fees apply for camping and bookable sites |
About Wenderholm Regional Park
Wenderholm Regional Park sits between the mouths of the Pūhoi and Waiwera rivers on Auckland’s North Shore, featuring a large sandspit, forested headlands, salt marshes and native coastal bush. It became Auckland’s first regional park when the land was purchased and opened to the public in December 1965, establishing the foundation for the current network of regional parks. The park’s sheltered beach faces the Hauraki Gulf while the Pūhoi River creates a calmer lagoon area popular for swimming and kayaking. Couldrey House, a mid-19th century homestead within the park, preserves stories of early European settlement and later owners including tourism entrepreneur Robert Graham.
Visitors enjoy a mix of beach time, short bush walks and heritage exploration in one location. The park’s coastal forest and estuary support native birdlife, and the combination of river and sea swimming appeals to families seeking both calm and open-water options. Auckland Council manages the park with real-time water quality monitoring through the Safeswim programme, and gates operate from 6 am to 9 pm in daylight saving and 6 am to 7 pm otherwise.
Swimming at Wenderholm
The main beach provides a sheltered curving stretch of sand facing the Hauraki Gulf, protected by headlands and suitable for family swimming in typical summer conditions. On the southern side, the Pūhoi River mouth forms a warmer, more sheltered lagoon area where families often alternate between river and sea swims. Check the Safeswim service for current water quality before entering the water, especially after heavy rain when river runoff can affect the lagoon. Lifeguards are not permanently stationed but the site is monitored for public health risks.
Walking Tracks
Several short tracks wind through native bush behind the beach and along the estuary. The Perimeter Track offers the longest option at approximately 4.6 km and 90 minutes return, passing through coastal forest with views over the rivers and gulf. Shorter loops such as the Couldrey House track provide quicker options between swims or picnics. Tracks are generally well-formed but may have steps or uneven sections in places.
Couldrey House
Couldrey House is a Victorian-Edwardian homestead originally built in 1857 and later extended by successive owners. It now operates as a museum furnished with period items and audio stories from former residents’ descendants. The house and gardens are open to the public on weekends year-round from 1–4 pm, with additional weekday openings from Boxing Day to Easter Monday and selected school holidays. Adult entry is $7 with children under 16 free when accompanied by an adult. Access involves steps and the building is two storeys, so mobility may be limited for some visitors.
Camping and Facilities
Schischka Campground and other bookable sites provide overnight options including tent sites and a beach house. Picnic areas, BBQs, toilets and a playground support day visitors. Main gates close overnight, and vehicle access is restricted outside opening hours. Bookings for camping and sites are handled through Auckland Council.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the easy access to both calm river swimming and the beach, with plenty of shade and picnic spots for a relaxed day out. Many note the park feels less crowded than closer beaches and praise the short walks for stretching legs between swims.
Visitors often highlight Couldrey House as a pleasant surprise, enjoying the historic furnishings and garden setting. Reviewers mention the park’s natural beauty and recommend checking water quality updates before swimming.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Maungatauhoro / Wenderholm Regional Park: official page with maps, facilities, bookings and current conditions.
Couldrey House: heritage house opening hours, admission fees and visitor information.
Safeswim – Wenderholm: real-time water quality and swimming safety information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wenderholm Auckland’s first regional park?
Yes, it opened to the public on 18 December 1965 and was the first in the Auckland regional parks network.
What are the swimming options?
The sheltered Hauraki Gulf beach and the warmer Pūhoi River mouth lagoon provide two distinct areas; check Safeswim for water quality.
When is Couldrey House open?
Weekends 1–4 pm year-round, plus weekdays from Boxing Day to Easter Monday and selected school holidays; adult entry $7.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted under control in designated areas only; they are prohibited at bookable sites and accommodation.
Can I camp at the park?
Yes, Schischka Campground and other bookable sites are available through Auckland Council reservations.
How long are the main walking tracks?
The Perimeter Track is about 4.6 km and takes around 90 minutes; shorter loops are available near the beach and house.
Is park entry free?
Yes, general park entry is free; fees apply for Couldrey House visits and camping or bookable sites.
What are the gate opening hours?
Gates are open 6 am–9 pm during daylight saving and 6 am–7 pm at other times.
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