Pine Harbour Marina on the Pōhutukawa Coast
Pine Harbour Marina is situated on the scenic Pōhutukawa Coast of Auckland, with a sheltered marina for yachts and access to the Tāmaki Strait. Located next to the seaside suburb of Beachlands, this marina is an ideal spot for enjoying waterfront activities. It is also connected to Downtown Auckland by ferry, providing an alternative to road access to the coast and a perfect option for cyclists.
History and Development
The marina was developed in 1988, following a decision to build an oil refinery at Marsden Point, near Whangārei, rather than at this location. This development was later complemented by the opening of the Formosa Golf Club in 1997, adding to the area's recreational offerings.
Activities and Attractions
Pine Harbour Marina is home to several cafés and restaurants, making it a pleasant spot to relax and dine. The marina serves as a starting point for the Beachlands to Maraetai Walkway, a popular route for both walking and cycling. From the ferry terminal, you can follow Belisi Way along the coastal track towards Puriri Road and Second View Avenue, leading to Leigh Auton Reserve, Ōmana Regional Park, and Maraetai.
For those interested in shorter excursions, there are 20 to 30-minute walks to Motukaraka Island or the beaches at Sunkist Bay and Shelly Bay.
How to Get There
You can reach Pine Harbour Marina from Downtown Auckland via a regular 35-minute ferry service. If you are driving, take the southern motorway to the Redoubt Road exit and follow Redoubt Road east to Murphys Road, heading north to Flat Bush. Then, turn east onto Omiston Road, which becomes Sandstone Road, leading to Whitford Park Road and Whitford. From Whitford, continue east on Whitford-Maraetai Road, then head west on Jack Lachlan Drive on the outskirts of Bechlands, with parking by the marina at the end of this road. This drive is 36 km and takes about 40 minutes.
Other places to visit on the Pōhutukawa Coast include Ōmana Beach, Waiomanu Beach, Magazine Bay, Umupuia Beach and Duder Regional Park.
