For five decades, Āwhitu Regional Park has been more than just a park, it’s been the heart of a community and a coastal haven for Aucklanders. Today it stands as a true destination park, a jewel on the Manukau Harbour that beautifully blends natural heritage, community spirit, and endless adventure.
Celebrating this 50th anniversary is a fitting time to explore what makes this destination a must-visit.
Āwhitu past, present and future
Stepping onto the shores of Āwhitu Regional Park means stepping through centuries of vibrant history. Long before it became the stunning coastal escape we cherish today, the Āwhitu area was a deeply revered and vital landscape for the Tāmaki Māori peoples, like Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua, Ngāti Tamaoho, and Te Ākitai Waiohua, some of whom established seasonal settlements across the Āwhitu Peninsula to expertly harvest the resources offered by the land and the Manukau Harbour. Their enduring connection forged a spiritual and cultural legacy that still resonates to this day.
In 1875 English immigrants, John and Sarah Brook, settled here and by 1878 erected the family homestead, laying the foundations for a bustling sheep and cattle farm that thrived for nearly a century. The defining chapter came in 1971 when the Brook family’s land was sold and transformed into the treasured Āwhitu Regional Park. This visionary act ensured the preservation of crucial coastal wetlands on the Manukau Harbour and cemented a commitment to providing public access and recreation for generations to come.
“Marking half a century gives us pause to acknowledge the decision-makers of the time who had the foresight to realise the importance of protecting coastal land for future generations and the courage to act,” says lead councillor for regional parks, Ken Turner.
“We’re still reaping the benefits of this decision today at Āwhitu, and across the many other regional parks we are so fortunate to have in our region.”
“This anniversary highlights not only the enduring value of investment in our regional parks, but also the positive impact on our communities and bringing people together for conservation and recreation.”
A champion for community, nature and adventure
What truly sets Āwhitu apart today, is the deep imprint of its community. This isn’t just a park maintained for the community, but also by the community. Generations of school and community plantings have cultivated the park into the magnificent place it is to enjoy today. It’s a thriving hub of connection and collective effort – a definite must-see.
Wetlands and wildlife: Āwhitu is home to one of the largest and most significant wetlands remaining in the Auckland region. Keep your eyes peeled—it’s a great sanctuary for bird spotting, including endangered species like the banded rail and elusive fernbird which is revered by the local iwi Ngāti Te Ata, as a kaitiaki (guardian) of the area and who commemorate it in the form of a stunning stone carving of a matata (fernbird) .
Walks for all: Explore the park under the shade of beautiful, established oak trees. Try the family-friendly Brook Homestead Loop (45 mins) which takes you through bush and wetlands or combine it with the Kauri Walk for a longer 1.5-hour trek. For the more serious adventurers, be sure to check out the nearby Waiuku Forest.
Stay and Play: Āwhitu is famous for its accommodation, offering two popular, family-friendly campgrounds (Peninsula and Brook campgrounds) and the classic bach stay at Āwhitu House. This spot is particularly good for families with its safe swimming beach and established campgrounds. The park also features a scenic nine-hole golf course where the local club extends its warm community welcome by opening up for dinner service to the public over weekends.
Āwhitu sports: Enjoy safe swimming at the tidal beach or bring your gear for excellent kayaking and other water sports. For a unique experience why not try horse riding? This is a beloved activity in the park that’s guaranteed to provide lasting memories for friends and whānau.
Explore the rich Āwhitu Peninsula
The park is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable weekend exploring the surrounding peninsula and its vibrant community.
Iconic landmarks: Drive out to the historic Manukau Heads lighthouse for spectacular views, or spend a day on the wild, dramatic sands of Kariotahi Beach and Hamiltons Gap.
Local delights: Get a taste of local flavour at Āwhitu Wines (offering wine tasting tours) or browse the weekend markets on the last Sunday of the month.
Heritage and fun: Step back in time with a ride on the Glenbrook Vintage Railway or visit the fascinating Waiuku Museum.
Celebrate the legacy by experiencing it first-hand; pitch a tent, take a hike or simply embrace the warm welcome of the Āwhitu community.
50 years young - Āwhitu Regional Park is waiting for you.
