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Wenderholm Regional Park to Stillwater
25.2 km
8 hours
363 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
Are you ready for a full-day tramping adventure that captures the very best of Auckland's diverse coastline, native bush, and quiet estuaries? Stretches of golden sand, clifftop views, and historic treasures await on this stunning leg of the legendary Te Araroa Trail.
This 25.2-kilometre, point-to-point journey takes you from the historic sanctuary of Wenderholm Regional Park to the peaceful boating community of Stillwater. Rated as a moderate challenge, you should allow a full 8 hours to complete the walk. Because of the sheer distance, the necessity of precise low-tide timing, and several roadside sections, this trail is not dog-friendly and is not suitable for kids. It is, however, an absolute dream for seasoned walkers looking for a highly varied, full-day experience close to the city.
Your day begins at the northern end of Wenderholm Regional Park, Auckland’s oldest and arguably most picturesque regional park. From the main car park, follow the signs towards the historic Couldrey House. The Te Araroa route utilises the park’s Perimeter Track, starting clockwise to the south of the homestead. Prepare to get your blood pumping straight away; this initial section features some steep ascents and descents. Your efforts are quickly rewarded, however, with breathtaking, panoramic views over the Waiwera River estuary and out across the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf. You’ll walk under a lush canopy of ancient pohutukawa, majestic kauri, and nikau palms—a beautiful example of mainland coastal forest.
As you emerge from the bush near the Waiwera Bridge on the Hibiscus Coast Highway, the walk transitions into its most time-sensitive phase: a low-tide coastal scramble. Timing is absolutely critical here. You must time your trek so that you arrive at this section at low tide, as you will be rock-hopping and strolling along the sand from Waiwera to Hatfields Beach. Take your time on the slippery rocks, and keep a watchful eye on the incoming waves.
From the southern end of Hatfields Beach, a set of public walkway steps climbs up to Ocean View Road. You will follow the footpaths south towards the Hibiscus Coast Highway, making sure to stop at Lookout Point. This spot offers an iconic, sweeping view of the entire length of Orewa Beach—a spectacular sight in any weather.
Ample free parking is available at Wenderholm Regional Park's main car park, offering approximately 290 spaces with an additional 400 overflow spaces when ground conditions permit. The main park gates operate seasonally, opening from 6 am to 9 pm during daylight saving hours and 6 am to 7 pm during non-daylight saving hours. Overnight parking for vehicles is generally for off-park activities, but certified self-contained (CSC) campervans or motorhomes can utilise a designated overnight parking area for up to one night between October and May, or up to three nights between June and September when the Schischka campground is closed.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
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
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
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
500m away
Located at the end of the trail, the clubhouse offers a selection of beers, wines, spirits, and food, including burgers and fresh catch, with views overlooking the Weiti River.
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Point to point
After descending into the vibrant coastal township of Orewa, the trail runs through Arundel Reserve and directly along the wide sands of Orewa Beach. The final leg of your journey begins at the southern end of the beach, where you will join the beautifully formed Te Ara Tahuna estuary path. This flat, winding trail follows the Orewa River estuary before transitioning into suburban streets and quiet country roads. Keep a close eye out for traffic as you navigate East Coast, Spur, and Duck Creek Roads. The official end of this rewarding section is the welcoming Stillwater Boating Club, where you can rest your feet and celebrate your accomplishment.
To reach the start of the trail, drive approximately 40 minutes north of Auckland CBD along State Highway 1. Take the exit for Waiwera/Wenderholm and follow the signs to Wenderholm Regional Park.
Ample free parking is available at Wenderholm’s main car park, which offers about 290 spaces, plus an extra 400 overflow spaces when the ground is dry. Keep in mind that the main park gates operate seasonally, opening from 6 am to 9 pm during daylight saving hours, and 6 am to 7 pm during winter.
If you are travelling in a certified self-contained (CSC) campervan, you can park overnight for one night between October and May, or up to three nights between June and September when the nearby Schischka campground is closed. Because this is a point-to-point trail, you will need to arrange a car shuttle, a pick-up at the Stillwater Boating Club, or look into local public transport options to get back to your starting vehicle.
This trail is an absolute haven for bird lovers, taking you through both rich native forest and vibrant marine estuaries.
In the forested sections of Wenderholm, you are guaranteed to hear the beautiful, complex song of the Tūī and the gentle, heavy wingbeats of the Kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon) soaring between the trees. Friendly Pīwakawaka (New Zealand fantail) and the tiny Riroriro (grey warbler) are common year-round companion birds that will flit alongside you in the bush. Keep your ears open for the occasional laughing call of the Australian Kookaburra, which has established a strong presence in the area.
If you are quiet and lucky, you might spot a Toutouwai (North Island robin) hopping on the forest floor. Down along the rocky coastlines and estuaries, keep an eye out for coastal shorebirds. During the spring and summer nesting season, you might even be lucky enough to spot a rare Kororā (little penguin) nesting in the rocky crevices.
Wenderholm holds a special place in New Zealand's history, having been established in 1965 as Auckland's very first regional park. This visionary purchase protected the headland from development, preserving its ancient coastal forest and beautiful spit for generations to enjoy.
The area is steeped in Māori heritage, with the headland historically serving as a strategic pā site (fortified village) for the local iwi (tribes), who valued the abundant resources of both the sea and the Waiwera and Puhoi rivers. The colonial history is equally rich, centered around Couldrey House, which was built in the 1850s and played host to many prominent historical figures, including Governor Sir George Grey.
After 25 kilometres on your feet, you will definitely have earned a treat!
About midway through the walk, you'll pass through Orewa. This is the perfect time to stop off at Oliver's Cafe Orewa (located about 6km from the Wenderholm start). It is a highly popular, friendly local spot offering fantastic coffee, brilliant breakfasts, and a cabinet packed with delicious, energy-boosting sweet and savoury treats.
At the very end of your journey in Stillwater, reward yourself at the Stillwater Boating Club. Situated right on the water's edge, this welcoming club is the ultimate place to relax. Grab a cold beer, a glass of wine, or a hearty pub burger while enjoying the tranquil views overlooking the Weiti River—the perfect end to an epic day on the Te Araroa Trail.
Rhipidura fuliginosa
In Māori mythology, the pīwakawaka is considered a messenger, sometimes bringing news of death.
Best time: Year-round
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Petroica longipes
Friendly forest bird that often approaches walkers. Found in native bush reserves across the North Island.
Best time: Year-round
Eudyptula minor
The smallest penguin species globally, these 'little blue penguins' can occasionally be seen near the Kaikoura coastline, especially around dusk as they return to their burrows.
Best time: Spring-Summer (nesting)
Dacelo novaeguineae
An introduced species to parts of New Zealand, including the Hauraki Gulf area, the kookaburra is famed for its distinctive, laughing call and is a carnivorous hunter.
Best time: Year-round
6km away
A popular cafe in Orewa, offering a range of breakfast, lunch, and coffee options, perfect for a mid-trail refreshment. Known for its friendly atmosphere.