Shakespear Regional Park's Heritage Loop
Located in Shakespear Regional Park, at the end of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula on the Hibiscus Coast, the Heritage Track offers a unique blend of forest and farm experience. As you exit the forest section of the track, you enter the farm, where a gentle uphill walk across a paddock leads to a high viewpoint. This part of the park is a working farm, so expect to see sheep grazing alongside native pukeko. Be prepared for muddy conditions if it has recently rained.
Breathtaking Views from the Ridge
Once you reach the ridge, you're rewarded with stunning views across the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and the distant skyline of Auckland City. Climb up to the viewpoint for the most spectacular vistas and to read the informative panels that explain the surrounding landscape.
Exploring Further: Heritage Loop and Te Haruhi Bay
From this viewpoint, you have several options to continue your exploration. You can follow the farm road to connect with the Heritage Loop, which includes a World War II pillbox. Alternatively, take one of the tracks leading to the beach at Te Haruhi Bay.
Getting to Shakespear Regional Park
To reach Shakespear Regional Park, head north from Auckland City on the northern motorway and take the Silverdale Exit. Follow the Twin Coast Discovery Highway east to the intersection with Whangaparaoa Road, then follow this road to the end of the peninsula. Once there, follow the signs to the Heritage Track to begin your journey.
There are several other coastal options while you are on the peninsula, including Red Beach, Stanmore Bay, Big Manly, Tindalls Beach and Army Bay. A less well-known option is to explore the cliffs around Fishermans Rock Reserve.
