Exploring Shakespear Regional Park
Shakespear Regional Park is located at the eastern tip of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula on the Hibiscus Coast, extending into the Hauraki Gulf in Auckland. North of Downtown Auckland, this park is a captivating destination with its high cliffs on the northern side and a sheltered bay and beach to the south. It is part of a series of 28 regional parks that offer access to coastal areas, regrowth forests, and active farms. The park also features a predator-free programme and control fence to support native bird populations.
Historical Background
The peninsula was purchased by the government from Ngāti Kahu in 1853 and subsequently subdivided for farming. In the 1890s, the Shakespear family consolidated many smaller farms, continuing agricultural activities well into the 1900s. During World War II, the army took control of the northern side of the peninsula's tip, where a base still exists. In 1967, the Shakespear family sold the southern side of the tip to Auckland City, leading to the establishment of the park.
Walking Tracks and Activities
Upon entering the park from Silverdale via Whangaparāoa Road, you will find parking options just after Army Bay. You can proceed straight to the forest section of the Heritage Track from the first car park, protected by a predator-proof fence, or turn right towards Te Haruhi Bay and the campground. Additional parking is available near various track access points and in the bay.
The park offers several trails, with the Heritage Track being a highlight. The forest trail features a waterfall and mature pūriri trees with unique shapes. After the forest section, you walk into the farm section of the track, up a paddock to the park's high point, then either head to the coast or return via a farm road loop. The short Kānuka Walk provides a shortcut option.
From the top, you can choose from three paths leading down to Te Haruhi Bay, known for its safe swimming beach. The Tiritiri Track via Pink Beach is particularly interesting. All tracks, except the forest section of the Heritage Track, are shared with cyclists.
Te Haruhi Bay offers ample open space for beach activities and is safe for swimming, although it can become crowded during summer.
How to Get There
To reach Shakespear Regional Park from central Auckland, take the northern motorway to Silverdale. Head east on the Twin Coast Scenic Highway to Whangaparāoa Road, then follow this road to the end. The park entrance is just past Army Bay. The drive is around 47 km and takes an hour.
There are several other regional parks on the northeast coast of Auckland, including Long Bay, Wenderholm, Mahurangi, Scandrett and Tawharanui.
