What makes it 83% Couple-Friendly: Couples find quiet sunset picnic spots, glow-worm night walks and easy tandem-kayak launches; the scenery feels private and logistics are simple, so the park ranks high for shared time.
Why 0.5-1 day visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a scenic walk, beach picnic, and kayak trip at a leisurely pace.
Heritage & Lookout Track walk:
2.9 km loop through native forest to WWII pillbox ruins and a high-point with 360° Hauraki Gulf views.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and start early for cooler temps and clear vistas.
Waterfall Gully night-walk:
1 km track after dusk to spot glow-worms and hear morepork calls.
Tip: Bring a red-filter torch and begin 30 minutes before sunset for both daylight and glow-worm viewing.
Romantic beach picnic at Te Haruhi Bay:
Sand-and-grass bay under pohutukawa with free barbecue facilities.
Tip: Reserve a picnic site online and arrive early to claim a shaded table at sunset.
Kayak to shipwrecks:
Paddle from Army Bay to explore 19th-century scuttled ship remains in Te Haruhi Bay.
Tip: Book a tandem kayak in advance, wear a life jacket, and pack a dry bag for snacks.
Birdwatching & sunset lookout:
Spot tui and kererū from the Okoromai headland or Army Bay at dusk.
Tip: Carry binoculars and hike up 20 minutes before sunset for best bird activity.

Carol Plewinski
Such a little gem of a place with bush walks and a beach that is beautiful. Lots of bird life and trees to shelter from the sun. Just a great place.
Logan S.
The place that makes you feel like you’re in a Windows wallpaper... This place is chef’s kiss from every angle... Once you get to the top,it’s a full 360° view of pure green,blue and “wow I need to take a photo even though my camera roll already full” vibes... You’ve got options to reach the top: Option A: The short gravel road straight to the summit like you’re speedrunning life... Option B: ...
Benedict Amandus Hananto
Shakespear Regional Park is a wonderful place to spend a peaceful day outdoors. The scenery is truly beautiful, with a perfect mix of open grasslands, forest paths, and coastal views. Walking through the forest while listening to the sound of birds creates a very calming and refreshing atmosphere. The park is well maintained, and the walking tracks are easy to follow. It’s an ideal spot for both ...
Liu Xiao Shan
Such a lovely place, full of greenery. We could hear the sea and watch a fantail playing with us. We drew in the sand and had a pleasant chat with a cheerful elderly couple. I saw a little bird and thought it only had one leg. It turned out it was just tucking one leg up to rest.
Tilak Sarma
The best place with 360 views and spent time with both family or your loved ones. To explore the entire area you need at least 3-4 hours. There is plenty of parking inside but it is very confusing, don't park near the bus stand . You can take your car inside up to a certain distance which is very helpful specifically near the "Photo Frame" point. There are 3-4 trails but please do necessary resea...
In summer, start before 9 AM to avoid midday winds and heat. Late spring brings pohutukawa blooms at the bays. After rain in winter, pack waterproof layers as some tracks get muddy.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tandem kayak hire (1 hr) | NZD 35 |
| Picnic groceries and BBQ | NZD 20 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 55 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Address: 1501 Whangaparaoa Road, Army Bay, Auckland 0930, New Zealand
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Shakespear Regional Park (Auckland)?
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 9 366 200010 BEST nearby Activities
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities