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New Zealand/Things to Do in Auckland, couple trip

Shakespear Regional Park (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is Shakespear Regional Park?

83%Couple-Friendly
View Map

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.

Google
Reviews4.8/ 5
(from 4,201 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free park access: All walking tracks, beaches and picnic areas are free to use.
  • Secluded bays: Te Haruhi and Army Bay offer quiet spots for a private experience.
  • WWII heritage: Historic pillboxes and shipwrecks add a unique touch to your visit.

Challenges:

  • Limited facilities: No café or shop on site—bring water, snacks and sun protection.
  • Uneven terrain: Some trails can be rocky or muddy after rain; wear sturdy footwear.
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🏖️ Explore Shakespear Regional Park with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Shakespear Regional Park. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Shakespear Regional Park?

  • A coastal nature reserve on Auckland’s Whangaparaoa Peninsula encompassing native forest, rolling farmland paddocks and intertidal wetlands
  • A wildlife sanctuary with pest-free zones managed by Auckland Council in partnership with Ngāti Manuhiri and the Department of Conservation
  • A historic landscape featuring World War II fortifications, heritage farm buildings, three sandy bays, campgrounds and a public boat ramp

What is so special about Shakespear Regional Park for couple trip?

  1. Hike a 360° lookout loop with WWII relics
  2. Share a beachfront picnic under native pohutukawa
  3. Paddle together to historic shipwrecks
  4. Spot native birds and glow-worms on a night walk
  5. Enjoy diverse free activities in a single day trip

Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 day

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.

(View Shakespear Regional Park on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in Shakespear Regional Park

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.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Shakespear Regional Park

  1. Start at dawn: Beat the crowds and catch calm seas for kayaking and clear gulf views.
  2. Book picnic site: Reserve a free barbecue site online to secure shaded seating.
  3. Check tide times: Plan your shipwreck kayak around low tide for easier landing.
🏖️ Tour Shakespear Regional Park like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Shakespear Regional Park. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Shakespear Regional Park

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Carol Plewinski

Carol Plewinski

Dec 2025

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.

Logan S.

Nov 2025

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

Benedict Amandus Hananto

Oct 2025

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

Liu Xiao Shan

Aug 2025

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

Tilak Sarma

Jun 2025

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...

When is the best time to visit Shakespear Regional Park (Auckland, New Zealand)?

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.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Auckland on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Tandem kayak hire (1 hr)NZD 35
Picnic groceries and BBQNZD 20
Total EstimatedNZD 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

Map of Shakespear Regional Park

Address: 1501 Whangaparaoa Road, Army Bay, Auckland 0930, New Zealand

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About Shakespear Regional Park

Opening Hours

Monday:6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday:6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday:6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday:6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday:6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday:6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday:6:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+64 9 366 2000

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