Sandspit offers two different ways to enjoy a stay by the water: walking through coastal forest and along the estuary, or taking a boat towards Kawau Island. Tidal flats, seabirds and reserves also shape the area.

Walking: Coastal Forest, Estuary and Tides

The Sandspit to Brick Bay Walkway passes through coastal forest and along the estuary. It can be accessed at low tide; take the tide level into account when planning and check conditions before setting out. Nearby, existing walking tracks in the Sandspit and Horseshoe Bay area connect the inland area with Brick Bay Drive and Puriri Place Reserve. Their routes may be affected by coastal conditions. Tide levels and coastal conditions are therefore two separate factors that may be important when choosing a walk.

Nature and Places to Take a Break

At Sandspit Harbour, an intact ecological sequence extends from mangroves, salt marshes and tidal flats to regenerating kānuka, broadleaf scrub and forest. Seabirds are also part of the natural landscape: Cook's petrels and white-fronted terns are commonly found at Sandspit and the ferry terminal. Their presence varies by season and is not constant, so sightings cannot be relied on as a set part of a day's itinerary.

Sandspit Reserve has a playground, toilets, walking tracks, parking and picnic facilities. The historic Sandspit school buildings are also located within the reserve, giving the area an additional historical connection. Green Point Reserve in Sandspit is another reserve with picnic facilities, an access track and a small ramp. The two places differ not only in their facilities, but also in their respective connections to history and landscape.

Boating Activities and the Trip to Kawau Island

The Sandspit Yacht Club promotes recreational boating, cruises and keelboat racing. Activities and participation requirements may vary by season and membership status. The club has various types of boats available for hire; confirm availability and hire conditions directly with the club. For launching your own boat, the club operates an all-tide boat ramp at 1287 Sandspit Road. Non-members may also use it. Fees and conditions may change, so check them before your trip.

Sandspit is considered a gateway to the islands of Kawau Bay. The Royal Mail Run Cruise lets you travel from Sandspit to Kawau Island and explore the island. As schedules may change when the operator updates them, check the times before planning your trip. This is especially helpful if you want to combine the boat trip with a walk or a visit to one of the reserve areas.

Guests at Sandspit Holiday Park can swim, fish and kayak from the park; these activities are part of the stay there. You can also walk from the park to Sandspit Wharf, where the ferry to Kawau Island departs. Nearby, Brick Bay has shallow water for swimming and an expansive lawn. So, in addition to trips to Kawau, there is a nearby place to spend time by the water. Brick Bay is a separate option in the surrounding area, not part of the walking routes or offerings described for the Sandspit Yacht Club.

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