Waitakere Ranges Regional Park

A rich network of tracks explore the low hills, and the black ironsand beaches from Whatipu in the south to Piha further north. Several reservoirs within the park form part of Auckland's water supply, and are restricted-access. In 2012 some tracks were closed in order to manage the spread of Kauri Dieback. 

The ranges are the remnants of a offshore volcano. 16 million years ago, the massive Waitakere Volcano lay 20km offshore. Today, the steep cliffs at the edge of the park are the remnants of the eastern slopes of this volcano, formed largely of Manukau breccia. The black sand beaches come from elsewhere: titanomagnetite swept up the coast from Taranaki.

Highlights

• The Hillary Trail is a new four-day walk following the coastline. It is muddy and challenging with one day of 11-12 hours walking.
• Wild blacksand beaches are accessed at Whatipu or Karekare.
• Muriwai Beach Gannet Colony.

How to get there

The Waitakeres are under an hour from central Auckland. To get to Huia or Whatipu, take Titirangi Road from New Lynn. Then turn onto Huia Road at the roundabout. To get to Karekare or Piha, take SH16 and turn left at Te Atatu Road. 

Public transport goes only as far as Titirangi. From here, walk along Exhibition Drive and the Beveridge Track to Arataki Visitor Centre.

Where to stay

Motor camps are located in Muriwai and Piha. A variety of bookable drive-in and walk-in campgrounds are found throughout the park. Call 0-9-301 0101 to make a booking.

Accessibility

The following tracks may be suitable for wheelchairs:

• Exhibition Drive
• Beveridge Track, Arataki Visitor Centre
• Pohutukawa Glade Walk, Karekare
• Karamatura Loop Walk

The basics

• Entrance fee: there are no fees for access to the park.
• Pets: dogs are allowed on lead in some areas. Further information.
• Vehicles: The Pipeline and Beveridge Tracks are suitable for mountain bikes.
• Overnight camping and walking: bookings and fees are required for overnight camping at established campsites.
• Some areas are closed due to Kauri Dieback. Please respect signage and use cleaning equipment provided.
• Check in at the visitor centre for weather conditions and current information. 

Hazards

• Coastal seas in the area may not be safe for swimming. Major beaches have lifeguards on patrol

Visitor information

Arataki Visitor Centre
300 Scenic Dr, Oratia, Waitakere 0604
+64 9 817 0077
Full contact details