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New Zealand/Things to Do in Auckland, with kids

Shakespear Regional Park (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Shakespear Regional Park?

79%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 79% Kids-Friendly: Children up to age 12 can paddle in shallow bays, hunt for rock-pool creatures and follow short bunker trails; toilets, BBQ lawns and flat paths help, but there is no playground or lifeguard.

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

Positives:

  • Safe shallow waters: Army Bay’s calm waters suit young swimmers.
  • Free picnic spots: Barbecues and tables at Te Haruhi Bay are free to use.
  • Easy flat trails: Coastal paths are mostly even, friendly for little legs.

Challenges:

  • No shops on site: Bring all food, water and sun protection.
  • Uneven heritage track: Section near pillboxes has loose gravel and tree roots.
  • Variable mobile coverage: Signal can drop in dense forest and bays.
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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 with kids?

  1. Easy 1.5 km coastal walk with rock pools
  2. Shallow, shaded beach areas ideal for young kids
  3. Interactive WWII pillbox trail adds a history lesson
  4. Wildlife bingo combines nature spotting with fun
  5. Picnic sites with free BBQs make family lunch simple
  6. Optional kayak lessons offer a water adventure

Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours

Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time for a coastal walk, beach play, heritage site visit and picnic without rushing.

(View Shakespear Regional Park on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Shakespear Regional Park

Coastal walk from Te Haruhi to Okoromai Bay:

A 1.5 km flat track along the coast with rock pools at Okoromai Bay.

Tip: Let kids explore pools; carry water and sun protection.

Army Bay beach play:

Shallow water and grassy areas under pohutukawa trees.

Tip: Bring beach toys and a sunhat for longer play.

WWII pillbox heritage trail:

Short loop to two concrete pillboxes and the anti-tank ditch.

Tip: Download a map and share the WWII story with kids.

Wildlife bingo scavenger hunt:

Spot fantails, tui and kererū in regenerating forest.

Tip: Print a bingo sheet and bring pencils.

Family kayak lesson:

Beginner lesson or tandem kayak hire in Okoromai Bay.

Tip: Book lesson in advance and pack a change of clothes.

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

  1. Arrive early: Get the best picnic spot and avoid midday heat.
  2. Combine activities: Alternate beach play with short walks to keep kids engaged.
  3. Use tide charts: Visit rock pools at low tide for better exploration.
🏖️ 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)?

Summer brings calm water for swimming and BBQ; spring flowers bloom along walkways; autumn offers quieter trails; pack warm layers and waterproofs for winter visits.

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

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Park entryNZD 0
Kayak hire (1 hour)NZD 60
Picnic suppliesNZD 30
Total EstimatedNZD 90

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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