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Tāwharanui Regional Park
4 km
2 hours
100 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a coastal escape that combines pristine white-sand beaches, lush native forest, and some of the rarest wildlife in Aotearoa New Zealand, then you need to put the Tāwharanui Ecology Track at the top of your list. Located in the spectacular Tāwharanui Regional Park—just a 15-minute drive from Matakana—this easy 4km loop is a shining example of conservation in action.
Whether you are a local kiwi looking for a weekend escape or an international visitor wanting to experience New Zealand’s unique biodiversity, this two-hour walk offers an immersive, family-friendly journey through a thriving, predator-free sanctuary.
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Your adventure begins at the main Anchor Bay car park, right next to the informative Sanctuary Hut. From here, you’ll set off on a self-guided trail marked by distinctive yellow posts.
The trail immediately captivates you with its sheer variety of landscapes. Within the first twenty minutes, you will transition from the salty, wind-swept coastal wilderness and sandy shorelines to rolling, green pastureland. As you walk through the working sheep farm sections, you are treated to expansive, panoramic views across the sparkling, turquoise waters of the Hauraki Gulf and its scattered offshore islands.
Before long, the trail coaxes you away from the coast and into the cool, damp embrace of the native bush. This forest section is a true highlight. You will first wander under a canopy of lush broadleaf trees, including ancient pūriri, karaka, taraire, pukatea, and elegant nīkau palms. As you climb gently—gaining only about 100 metres of elevation across the entire track—the forest transitions into spectacular regenerating stands of towering kauri, tōtara, rimu, and tānekaha (celery pine).
The track then meanders alongside the peaceful Waikokowai Stream and winds through regenerating wetlands before returning you back to the coast. The terrain is generally well-formed, though it features some uneven ground, dirt paths, and occasional rocky sections along the shoreline. Because of these coastal rocks and tree roots, the track is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs, but it is an absolute paradise for active kids who love to explore.
Ample free parking is available at the main Anchor Bay car park, located at the end of Takatu Road within Tāwharanui Regional Park. The car park includes toilet facilities, an information centre (Sanctuary Hut), and a water fountain. Note that Takatu Road, leading to the park, is fully sealed. Be aware of potential road closures for sealing during May/June, with parking then available in the campground.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Porphyrio hochstetteri
Large flightless bird once thought extinct. Now found in sanctuaries and Fiordland. Distinctive blue-green plumage and red bill.
Best time: Year-round
Apteryx mantelli
The kiwi is New Zealand's national icon, a nocturnal and flightless bird known for its long, sensitive beak with nostrils at the tip, used to sniff out food.
Best time: Year-round (nocturnal)
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
15km away
A popular spot in Matakana Village, known for its fresh, locally sourced menu, delicious brunch and lunch options, and a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a post-hike refuel.
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Loop
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To get to the trailhead, drive to Tāwharanui Regional Park, located at the very end of Takatu Road. The road winding through the park is fully sealed, making it accessible for all vehicle types.
Parking Information: Ample free parking is available at the main Anchor Bay car park. This area serves as the perfect base camp for your day, featuring excellent public toilet facilities, a fresh water fountain to top up your bottles, and the Sanctuary Hut information centre.
Note: Be aware that Takatu Road occasionally undergoes maintenance or sealing, particularly around May or June. If the main road is closed, parking is usually redirected to the park's campground nearby.
Because this park is a precious wildlife sanctuary, dogs are strictly prohibited at all times to protect the ground-dwelling birds.
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Thanks to a massive 2.5-kilometre pest-proof fence stretching across the peninsula, Tāwharanui is a safe haven for some of New Zealand’s most endangered species. Keep your eyes peeled and your ears open for these spectacular locals:
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Tāwharanui holds a special place in the heart of the Auckland region. Historically, the land was highly valued by Māori for its abundant coastal resources and strategic position. For decades in the 20th century, the peninsula operated as a private farm before being purchased by the Auckland Regional Council.
In 2004, the park underwent a remarkable transformation. With the installation of the pest-proof barrier fence, it became New Zealand's first integrated "open sanctuary"—a unique concept where conservation, public recreation, and a working sheep farm successfully coexist. Every step you take along the Tāwharanui Ecology Track is a journey through a living ecological experiment, proving that human communities and native ecosystems can thrive side by side.
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After exploring the sanctuary, make the 15-minute drive back toward Matakana to refuel at one of these fantastic local spots:
Philesturnus rufusater
North Island saddleback. Black bird with distinctive chestnut saddle across its back. Found on predator-free islands and sanctuaries.
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Anas chlorotis
The brown teal is a rare and endangered duck species, occasionally sighted in the wetlands and coastal areas of the Abel Tasman region.
Best time: Year-round
Anarhynchus obscurus
A threatened shorebird, the southern subspecies is critically endangered and breeds on sandy beaches and exposed hilltops.
Best time: Spring-Summer
15km away
A renowned craft brewery and restaurant offering a fantastic selection of beers brewed on-site, along with a menu featuring gourmet pub fare. It's a great spot to unwind after your walk.
15.5km away
Located in a beautiful vineyard setting, Plume offers a more upscale dining experience with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients and excellent wine pairings. A lovely option for a celebratory meal.