Pakiri is on the east coast of the Auckland region. The coastal beach is 24 kilometres long, stretching from Cape Rodney in the south to Bream Tail in the north. The beach, forest and a long hiking section give the area different points of interest—from a stay by the sea to an extended walking tour.

A coastal beach with dunes and dune lakes

Pākiri Beach is considered the only undeveloped surf beach exposed to the open sea on the mainland’s east coast. Extensive sand dunes and dune lakes line the beach; it also has regional significance. Its length and open coastal landscape shape the character of this place.

Forest, island views and park access

From Pākiri Regional Park, there are unobstructed views of Hauturu-o-Toi / Little Barrier Island. A coastal Pōhutukawa forest lies on the park’s hillside, bordering Pākiri Beach. Alongside the open beach landscape, the local natural setting therefore includes forest and island views.

Access to the park is limited: there is no public vehicle access; limited pedestrian access is available from M Greenwood Road. Check local conditions before travelling.

Activities at Pākiri Beach

People surf and swim at Pākiri Beach. Other activities include boat fishing and surfcasting, horse riding, and walks and hikes. The options therefore include activities on the water as well as opportunities on foot or horseback.

Putting the Te Araroa section in perspective

The Mangawhai–Pākiri section of Te Araroa is 29.5 kilometres long. A one-way walking time of 7–8 hours is given, while the section is also rated easy. The rating describes the level of difficulty, while the walking time indicates how long it takes. So don’t plan this section as though it were a short beach walk. Its southern end is at the beach access point at Pākiri Beach.

The Pākiri River must be crossed at its mouth on this section. The route guidance specifies a window within 90 minutes before or after low tide, so that the crossing is safe and possible. Check local conditions before setting out.

Nesting sites and route guidance

Two of the only four known breeding sites of the tara-iti, the New Zealand fairy tern, are on the coast of the Mangawhai–Pākiri section. The headland at the Pākiri River is fenced off to protect the breeding sites. Follow current fencing and signage when travelling through this area.

Cultural heritage in its local context

Te Kiri's Pa in Pākiri Regional Park is listed as a Category B historic heritage site. This designation adds a cultural aspect of Pakiri to its natural and coastal attractions.

Where to stay in Pakiri

Pakiri Beach Holiday Park offers accommodation right on the beach with uninterrupted sea views. Options include family and single cabins, as well as sites for tents, caravans and motorhomes. This provides a range of accommodation at the coastal beach, from a cabin to your own tent or vehicle.

Discover more destinations: Papakura, Puhoi, Muriwai Beach, Onetangi, Clarks Beach, Bombay, Silverdale, Tuakau.

For the broader travel overview: Auckland.