Waitawa Regional Park Coastal Loop is a scenic walking track in the Wellington region of New Zealand. The trail follows the coastline offering views of the harbor and surrounding landscapes. It’s suitable for most fitness levels and provides access to beaches, coastal vegetation, and birdwatching opportunities in a regional park setting.
The Waitawa Regional Park Coastal Loop is one of those delightfully under-the-radar coastal walks that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto Auckland’s best-kept secret. Tucked away in Clevedon on the eastern fringes of Auckland, this track delivers proper coastal scenery without the crowds you’ll find at more famous spots. The loop takes you through regenerating native bush, along clifftops with sweeping views across the Hauraki Gulf, and down to a remote beach that feels a world away from the city.
Find more walks in this area… Check out our complete guide to East Auckland walks for more coastal and bush walking options.
Waitawa Regional Park is located about 50 kilometres southeast of central Auckland near the rural town of Clevedon. From Auckland city take the Southern Motorway and exit onto Whitford-Maraetai Road. Continue through Whitford village and turn left onto Kawakawa Road. Follow this road for several kilometres before turning right onto Waitawa Road which leads directly to the carpark.
There’s no public transport to Waitawa Regional Park so you’ll need your own wheels. The carpark is gravel and reasonably sized but can fill up on summer weekends. Arrive early if you’re visiting on a sunny Saturday or Sunday. The final approach road is unsealed but well-maintained and suitable for regular vehicles.
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The Waitawa loop offers something quite different from your typical Auckland coastal walk. Rather than the rugged west coast drama or the manicured city beaches, this track delivers a gentler rural coastal experience with genuine remoteness. The beach section is often completely empty even on decent weather days which is practically unheard of in Auckland.
The regenerating bush sections showcase what dedicated pest control can achieve. The birdlife here has bounced back impressively with tui, kereru and fantails being common sightings. If you’re walking quietly in the early morning you might spot kaka which have been spotted in the area.
The clifftop sections provide expansive views without requiring serious elevation gain. On clear days you’ll see across to the Coromandel Peninsula and spot Waiheke and Ponui Islands sitting in the Hauraki Gulf. The geological features along this coastline are fascinating too with distinctive rock formations and fossil beds visible in the cliffs.
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Yes you can swim at Waitawa Beach though the water is part of the Firth of Thames so it’s more sheltered and murky than ocean beaches. The swimming is best at high tide when there’s more water depth. Be aware there are no lifeguards and no facilities at the beach itself. The remoteness means you’re completely self-sufficient if anything goes wrong.
The track is suitable for older children who are used to longer walks but the 5.5 kilometre distance plus the steep sections make it challenging for little ones. Kids around eight and up who walk regularly should manage fine. The beach section is great for kids as there are rock pools and space to explore. Consider doing just the out-and-back to the beach rather than the full loop with younger children.
No there are no camping facilities at Waitawa Regional Park. It’s a day-use area only. The carpark gates are locked overnight. If you’re looking to camp in the area you’ll need to look at nearby holiday parks or freedom camping spots that allow vehicles.
Each season offers something different. Spring brings wildflowers and newborn lambs in the surrounding farmland. Summer offers the warmest weather though it can be hot on exposed sections. Autumn has stunning light and fewer visitors. Winter can be beautiful on clear days with excellent visibility though you’ll want warm layers. Avoid winter after heavy rain as the track gets muddy.
Yes dogs are allowed but must be kept on lead at all times. This is important because the park is surrounded by working farmland with livestock. The beach section is great for dogs as long as they’re under control. Remember to bring bags and carry out any dog waste.
I’ve walked the Waitawa loop more times than I can count and it never disappoints. There’s something deeply satisfying about a walk that delivers proper coastal scenery without requiring you to battle crowds or drive for hours. My favourite visits have been on those crisp winter mornings when the air is so clear you feel like you could reach out and touch the Coromandel. The beach to yourself, the sound of waves, and that climb back up that always seems steeper than you remembered – it’s become a regular reset walk for me when Auckland feels too busy. Pack a thermos of tea and take your time at the clifftop viewpoint. This is what regional parks should be: accessible, beautiful and just challenging enough to feel like a proper walk rather than a stroll.
