The Beachlands-Maraetai Walkway is an 8.4 km coastal pathway that connects Beachlands and Maraetai along Auckland’s Pōhutukawa Coast. The trail often follows the coastline, with fabulous views of the Tāmaki Strait part of the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island, and the Coromandel Peninsula. It also accesses Ōmana Regional Park and pretty Ōmana Beach.
The walkway can be accessed from multiple points and travelled in either direction. However, consider taking a 40-minute ferry ride from Downtown Auckland and starting at Pine Harbour Marina. There are several cafes/restaurants at the marina. From there, head around the northern coastal track near the ferry terminal to Puriri Road. Then head east on either Second View Avenue or First View Avenue (then Pōhutukawa Road) to Leigh Auton Reserve. Side trips include Motukaraka Island, Sunkist Bay and Shelly Bay.
Leigh Auton Reserve is a mostly rolling grassed area behind the cliffs above the east end of Shelly Bay and the sand and mud flats of Kelly Beach. The track is sealed, and the cliff's edge is lined with mature pōhutukawa trees. The cliff is approachable in several locations, with superb views. Looking across Kelly Beach, you will see similarly cliff-bound Ōmana Regional Park. Watch out for the interesting sun clock, where you can tell the time by standing in the right position at any time of the year.
Continuing through the reserve takes you down to Te Puru Park, a large flat area of sports fields behind Kelly Beach. The track follows the beach's edge and crosses an interesting bridge over the Te Puru Stream near the coast to enter the regional park. From there, you can cross the park on a sealed path (required for cyclists), or walkers can follow a rougher, more interesting trail near the cliff edge.
At the park's east end, there is access to Ōmana Beach. It’s perfect for swimming and less busy than Maraetai. Follow Ōmana Esplanade along the edge of the beach to Te Pene Beach. Large modern houses are also a feature of the esplanade. From Pene Beach, the track follows the edge of the rocky foreshore, perfect for fishing. At the end of the track, you will be at the start of 1 km long golden sand Maraetai Beach. Several cafes/restaurants are halfway along the beach, and you can catch a bus back to Pine Harbour if you prefer not to walk.
Walking takes about 3 to 3.5 hours (7.5 km), with more time if you stop to wander or swim. Dogs are permitted on-lead or off-lead (under control) on most walkway sections.
