Tāwharanui Regional Park is situated on a peninsula in the Matakana Coast Wine Country and combines farming, conservation and recreation in an ecological open sanctuary. Tawharanui boasts some of Auckland's most beautiful white sandy beaches, rolling pastures, shingled bays, native coastal forest and regenerating wetlands.

The Tawharanui Marine Reserve borders the northern coastline and provides you with spectacular diving and snorkeling opportunities in this unspoilt underwater environment. 

Tawharanui has a strong history - Until the 1870's the park was occupied by a small Hapu (sub tribe) of the Te Kawerau people called Ngtai Raupo. After 1870 Tawharanui was developed as a farm by the Martin, Jones and Young families. Kauri Timber was milled and shingle was extracted from the park. In 1973 the Auckland Regional Authority (ARA) purchased the park from the Georgetti family.

Feature tracks and trails

Ecology Trail 2 hours return, 4km

The Ecology Trail highlights Tāwharanui’s precious natural heritage. Start at the Sanctuary Hut at Anchor Bay and follow the yellow markers to many different habitats including the seashore, coastal wilderness, pasture and native bush, streams and wetlands. This is a self-guided trail.

North/South Coast Tracks 4 hours return, 9km

This is a walk for the energetic. You can start at either the Lagoon car park or at the Sanctuary Hut at Anchor Bay. Follow the white markers along the track, which winds up either at the northern or southern coasts (depending on where you begin) and heads out to Tokatū Point at the end of the peninsula. You will be rewarded with stunning views of neighbouring islands. Check out the very rare prostrate manuka on the Tokatu Loop Track.

Fishermans Track 30 minutes one way, 2km

Enjoy a quick and easy walk to access the South Coast (Māori Bay) starting from the Sanctuary Hut at Anchor Bay.

Mangatawhiri Track 20–30 minutes return, 1.2km

This short, mostly flat track includes the Thompson Loop through the regenerating Mangatawhiri wetland, offering the chance to view wildlife.

West End Track 3 hours return, 6km

Follow the blue markers starting at the Sanctuary Hut at Anchor Bay and head up the hills towards the pest-proof fence at the western end of the park for unique views of the coastline and nearby islands.

Māori Bay Coast Walk 4 hours return, 7km

From the Lagoon car park wander around the south coast over rocks to Māori Bay (access from mid to low tide only). At Māori Bay join the South Coast Track for the return trip to the Lagoon car park or Fishermans Trac