Te Rau Pūriri Regional Park: Kaipara Beach & Lake Rototoa

Overview

Te Rau Pūriri Regional Park is a 340-hectare working sheep and cattle farm at South Head, on the South Kaipara Peninsula north-west of Helensville. The council describes it as unique: it gives access to one of the best beaches on the Kaipara Harbour and to Lake Rototoa, the peninsula's major lake.

Mature and regenerating native and exotic trees cover parts of the park. Kauri, tōtara and pūriri grow on the ridges and along the coast, and the walks give elevated views across much of the harbour.

Getting there

• Address: 2911 South Head Road, South Head
• No vehicle access into the park. Park at the car park on South Head Road (open 24 hours) and walk in.
• Facilities: One unisex toilet at the park entrance, and two picnic tables (one by the car park, one at the entrance)
• Mobile coverage: Good across most of the park

Things to do

Horse riders have a designated poled trail on the east side of South Head Road, running over farmland to the coast. It's closed from 1 July to 30 September, horses aren't allowed on the beach, and riders must keep away from cows with young calves. Mountain bikes can use the open farmland and tracks, but expect to lift your bike over a lot of gates.

Dogs at Te Rau Pūriri

• Park areas: On a leash from 2 December to 30 June, and prohibited from 1 July to 1 December (lambing and calving)
• Beach and foreshore: Prohibited at all times

Good to know

There's no camping. Bring water, as the council doesn't list drinking water at the park.