In this area
One of Auckland’s most spectacular driving routes, named after the beautiful red-flowering trees that border its shoreline.
History at Howick
Stop by Howick township on your way to the Pohutukawa Coast and grab coffee and breakfast. History buffs should add Howick Historical Village to the itinerary – this living museum features more than 30 original colonial buildings on site, including a school, church, forge and general store.
Park life
Visit Omana Regional Park, a family park with a scenic beach, picnic areas, barbecues and pet farmyard animals, or explore the rolling pastures of Duder Regional Park by foot or mountain bike. Hit the walking tracks for views out over the Hauraki Gulf.
Walk this way
Walk the Pohutukawa Coast Trail through coastal parkland, native bush and historical sites, or take the 5km Coastal Walkway – which doubles as a cycleway.
Out on the water
Swim, picnic, fish or walk at beautiful Maraetai Beach, the site of one of New Zealand’s earliest European settlements. Maraetai means ‘marae (meeting place) by the beach’. Kayakers can take the self-guided multi-day kayak trail Te Ara Moana ‘the sea-going pathway’ from Omana Regional Park to Waharau Regional Park.
Find patrolled beaches and information on water and beach safety.