The Tomarata – Te Ārai Dune Lakes biodiversity focus area in north-east Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland includes three small dune lakes in Te Ārai Regional Park and three larger, deeper dune lakes nearby (Lakes Tomarata, Slipper and Spectacle).

The lakes were created when the formation of sand dunes along the coast prevented inland water from running out to sea. No rivers or streams flow into the lakes. The lake water comes from rainfall, as well as water seeping up through the sand. The lakes are fringed with extensive freshwater wetlands.

As well as the lakes explore Te Ārai Forest and Te Ārai Point. Te Ārai Point offers great peaceful beach areas and surf.

Photo credit: Andrew Macdonald, Biospatial Ltd 2018