Shakespear Regional Park is an invitation to enjoy a summer rite of passage, collapse on a beach under an umbrella. For families there are farm animals with walks across sheep paddocks and through native bush to panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and islands.
Situated at the end of a narrow Whangaparaoa peninsula, Shakespear Regional Park offers sweeping cliff top views and a beach along either side.
The Park has sheltered bays, wetlands, regenerating native forest, cliffs, historic places and lookouts. Most of the Park has recently been established as a sanctuary for native wildlife and plants, with a 2km pest-proof fence to keep pests out. Pets are prohibited within the sanctuary fence, including pets within a vehicle. Please check your vehicle for any other unwanted stowaways.
Shakespear Regional Park is part of a portfolio of Auckland Regional Parks for visitors to enjoy.
Beaches
The three main beaches are:
- Te Haruhi: Gentle surf makes this an ideal beach for swimming and kayaking. The most popular of the beaches, as a result, it is often referred to as “Shakespear Beach.”
- Army Bay: used for swimming, boat launch, and occasionally military exercises (this will be well signposted). It is a great place to watch the sunset.
- Okoromai Bay: a very tidal beach, most often used for kite surfing at high tide or collecting cockles at low tide. In fact, Okoromai Bay is one of the few remaining places in Auckland where people can collect cockles to eat. As a result, tight restrictions with huge fines for violation protect the waters from overfishing. Also, there is a sunken ship in Okoromai Bay that is visible during low tide.
One of the more difficult to reach low tide beaches is Pink Beach. Located on the north side of the park, it takes a bit of hiking to get here, so plan ahead based on tide charts.
Walking trails
The heritage trail passes native regenerating bush, wetlands and farmland to historic sites including a World War II gun emplacement. The TiriTiri Track is spectacular for its views of Tiritiri Matangi Island sanctuary in the Hauraki Gulf. Native birds have easily identified another refugee with birdlife now increasing in the park.
For more information about walks check Travel Pack Section for park brochure.
All walks are colour coded for easy identification.
Shakespear Regional Park accomodation
Forward bookings are essential
Ranger recommendations
Tips on how to make the most of your visit to Shakespear Regional Park. If you have two hours… Don’t miss the magnificent 360-degree views from the lookout at the top of the Lookout Track, before heading down to Te Haruhi Bay for a beach walk.
If you have half a day… As well as the lookout views and Te Haruhi Bay, you will have time to see much more of the park – walk the heritage trail, mountain bike around the park or take time out for a picnic.
If you have a full day… Explore the park at your leisure, find your own spot for a picnic and indulge your passion for fishing, snorkelling, diving or windsurfing. For something different, end the day with a walk through the Waterfall Gully where the glow worms put on their evening display
Shakespear Open Sanctuary is a not for profit organisation.
The Shakespear Open Sanctuary Society Incorporated (“SOSSI”) is an incorporated society established in 2004 for the purpose of assisting the Regional Council (now Auckland Council) with the establishment and development of a sanctuary at Shakespear Regional Park. SOSSI’s broad aim is “the conservation and enhancement of the natural, recreational, historic and cultural features and values” of the Sanctuary. Currently our focus is to create an environment in which native birds and plants can thrive and absent species can be safely introduced. The Society is a charitable organisation and relies on volunteers and donations to thrive.
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Travel pack information
BEST BITS TRAVEL GUIDE
Best Bits travel guide is published by nzjane.com. Owned and managed by PacificJane Ltd.
Our editors independently visit tour operators, purchase tickets, pay for accommodation, and rate products and places. We are not paid to go on a tour or visit a place. We only make money if you decide to purchase a product through our website links. We promise to never accept free products from manufacturers in return for boosting their products. Read more about our affiliate programme in the terms and conditions HERE.
