Tucked away in Clevedon’s rolling farmland, the Duder Farm Loop offers one of East Auckland’s most rewarding coastal walks with sweeping views across the Hauraki Gulf. The Historic Pā side-track adds a fascinating cultural dimension to what might otherwise be “just another farm walk” – and trust me, there’s nothing ordinary about this place.
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Find more walks in this area exploring East Auckland’s coastal and rural tracks
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Here’s the thing about Duder Farm that catches most first-timers off guard: you’re walking through an actual working sheep farm that happens to have some of the best coastal views in Auckland. The Duder family has farmed this land for generations and opened it as a regional park, which means you’ll share the track with curious sheep and the occasional “helpful” farm dog checking you’re going the right way.
The Historic Pā site is the real hidden gem. This fortified Māori village site sits on a dramatic headland with commanding views across the gulf. You can still make out the terracing and defensive earthworks if you know what to look for. The regenerating bush around the pā provides a lovely contrast to the open farmland and you might spot tūī, fantails and grey warblers flitting through the canopy.
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Farm Etiquette:
The Hauraki Gulf views mean you’re likely to spot plenty of marine life. Dolphins regularly cruise past the headland and gannets dive for fish offshore. Along the shoreline watch for oystercatchers, white-faced herons and various gull species. The farm paddocks themselves host skylarks – their song is constant on calm days and adds a lovely soundtrack to your walk.
In the regenerating bush around the Pā site keep your eyes peeled for native skinks basking on rocks and listen for the distinctive call of tūī particularly in flowering seasons.
The Pā site isn’t just an interesting detour – it represents centuries of Māori occupation and tells the story of how these coastal headlands were utilised for both defence and resource gathering. The strategic importance of this location overlooking major sea routes through the gulf made it valuable real estate long before European arrival.
The farming history is equally significant. The Duder family’s decision to allow public access while maintaining working farm operations creates a unique experience where you can observe modern pastoral farming alongside coastal conservation efforts.
Is the track suitable for running?
Absolutely. The well-maintained farm tracks make this popular with trail runners. Just watch for the occasional cowpat and give way to walkers on narrow sections.
Can I swim at the beach?
Yes, though the beach is rocky rather than sandy. Water quality is generally excellent but always check regional council swim safety reports during summer.
Are there shorter walk options?
The track from carpark to first viewpoint is wheelchair accessible and takes about 30 minutes return. You can also walk just to the beach and back (about 4 km return).
What happens if I encounter a bull?
Paddocks with bulls are clearly signposted and usually closed to walkers. If you do see a bull, remain calm, don’t run and give it a wide berth. Bulls with cows are generally docile.
Is camping allowed?
No overnight camping or fires are permitted at Duder Regional Park. The park closes at sunset.
Can I bring my horse?
No, horses aren’t permitted due to biosecurity concerns and potential conflict with farming operations.
What’s the mobile phone coverage like?
Surprisingly good on the ridgeline and coastal sections. Coverage drops in the bush around the Pā site.
I’ve walked Duder Farm in every season and weather condition imaginable and it never gets old. There’s something deeply satisfying about a walk that combines working farm authenticity with genuine natural beauty. Unlike some of Auckland’s more “managed” regional parks, Duder Farm feels real – you’re genuinely sharing space with farming operations rather than walking through a sanitised outdoor museum.
My favourite memory involves getting absolutely hammered by a nor’easter on the ridgeline while a mob of sheep huddled behind a fence line watching me struggle with my jacket. The weather can change fast out here but that’s part of the charm. One minute you’re in brilliant sunshine and the next you’re leaning into wind that could knock over a small child.
The Historic Pā side-track deserves more attention than it gets. Most walkers skip it in favour of completing the main loop but you’d be missing out on the cultural heart of the place. Take the time to sit quietly at the Pā site and imagine what life was like here. The views that attracted Māori settlement centuries ago are the same ones that’ll have you reaching for your camera today.
If you’re looking for more coastal adventures, the Shakespear Regional Park coastal walk offers similar spectacular gulf views with more native bush. For something completely different, the Hunua Falls walk in the Hunua Ranges provides lush forest and swimming holes less than an hour from Duder Farm. The Auckland Coast to Coast Walkway is the ultimate urban hiking challenge if you’re building up your Auckland walking credentials.
Duder Farm Loop proves you don’t need wilderness isolation to find an authentic outdoor experience. Sometimes the best walks happen on working farmland where the grass is literally greener and the views stretch all the way to Great Barrier Island.
