Known for its beautiful beaches and many a tourist attraction, it’s not surprising that the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board area is one of Auckland’s fastest growing spots.
The stunning coastal location includes two regional parks, Shakespear and Long Bay, as well as being host to the second largest marina in the Southern Hemisphere, located at Gulf Harbour on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula.
“We believe that we live in one of the best parts of Auckland and we value our coastal lifestyle. We are spoilt for choice with our beaches and reserves and coastal villages,” says local board chairperson Julia Parfitt.
“These are lots of places where we can relax, grab a cuppa and just enjoy the outdoors.”
Over the last few years the local board has made many improvements in the area including constructing the Stillwater Community Hall, new all-weather surface fields and lighting at Ashley Reserve, upgrading Phoenix Plaza in Browns Bay and revamping the toilets and changing sheds at Browns Bay beach and Hatfields Beach.
Further exciting developments are underway with the skate park at Western Reserve and playground at Sherwood Reserve currently being upgraded and the Estuary Arts Centre is being extended. A new community hub is being developed at Millwater, a new residential development under construction north of Silverdale.
The Torbay Revitalisation Project is underway and will enhance garden areas, footpaths and seating areas along the main shopping street. It is a great example of empowering communities to work with Torbay Business Association, Auckland Transport and the local board.
Hibiscus and Bays area includes: Mairangi Bay, Campbells Bay, Torbay, Long Bay, Stillwater, Waiwera, Manly, Gulf Harbour and Tiritiri Matangi. Town centres are located at Whangaparāoa, Ōrewa, Silverdale and Browns Bay.
Population: 89,832 or six per cent of Aucklanders (2013 census).
Great things to do in Hibiscus and Bays
- Explore the North Shore Coastal Walk, one of the top six day walks on New Zealand’s Te Araroa trail. It starts at Long Bay Regional Park and weaves through the beaches, cliff top tracks and the suburbs of the shore.
- Stroll along the Browns Bay boardwalk and the stunning beach front. If it’s a Sunday morning, you’re sure to find a bargain at the Browns Bay community market on Anzac Road (stall holder fees support the Coastguard North Shore and local community projects).
- No visit to the Bays would be complete without enjoying the magnificent Long Bay – bring the kids, the dog (check restrictions), a picnic and, of course, your swimming gear.
- Take a ride or walk around the 7.6km Te Ara Tahuna Estuary cycle and walkway - it’s on the flat, making it a great outing for the whole family. Then cross the road to Ōrewa Beach, which is 2.6km long and home to the Orewa Surf Club.
- Gulf Harbour Marina is one of New Zealand’s most popular marinas and marine service centres. Located on the Whangaparāoa, near the superb boating and cruising grounds of the Hauraki Gulf, it's an excellent haven to moor your boat and to take advantage of world class marine services.
Best kept secret: Tiritiri Mairangi Island is a wildlife sanctuary located 30km north-east of central Auckland, and just 4km from the end of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula. It’s an easy day trip by ferry from Auckland. As well as wonderful wildlife, Tiritiri Matangi has a lighthouse, visitor centre, some great walks, views and beaches.
Did you know?
Shakespear is New Zealand’s most visited and accessible open sanctuary, integrating conservation, recreation and farming. A pest free habitat provides a safe home for threatened native wildlife. Interested in volunteering? To find out more visit Shakespear Open Sanctuary Society.
Check out Our Auckland Events for local events coming up and keep up-to-date with what’s happening in Hibiscus and Bays by following the local board on Facebook.
