Maraetai means “meeting place by the sea” so named for the smooth, calm tidal passage now known as Tamaki Strait, which is sheltered by Te Motu Arai-roa (“The Long Sheltering Island”) now called Waiheke Island. 

This stunning sandy beach, it’s clear waters, safe swimming and gorgeous views make this a favourite weekend destination.  The coastal drive along the narrow, pohutukawa lined road on the edge of the sea to Magazine Bay is one of the most photographed stretches of road in NZ and is regularly featured in advertising promotions.  

Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki are the original inhabitants and Iwi (tribe) of Tāmaki Makaurau.   The Iwi is based in Maraetai, and the marae is Umupuia, located along the last stretch of coast before you head inland towards Duder.  The marae is not open to the public.

You may see traditional waka (boats) moored on the adjacent beach.

Duder Regional Park is located between Maraetai and Clevedon.on the Whakakaiwhara Peninsula at the entrance to the Wairoa River near Clevedon. The Peninsula has a long and rich history, beginning with the visit of the famous Tainui canoe in the 1300s. Ngäi Tai  lived there for hundreds of years, building gardens and a pä (defended fortification) on the point. It is an important place to Ngäi Tai because of its Tainui history, the excellent views over the Hauraki Gulf and the availability of food such as shellfish, eels, sharks, and berries and birds from the forest.

Thomas Duder purchased the Peninsula and surrounding land from Ngäi Tai in 1866. The Duder family farmed the Peninsula for the next 130 years, for sheep grazing then in the 1930s they began developing it into a productive farm. The Peninsula was also a popular place for fishing, picnics, boating and camping. Since 1994 the Duder Regional Park has been council owned and is best known for its walks, pockets of original native forest and some of the best coastal views in the Auckland region.

Waitawa Regional Park is located 50km from central Auckland on our south-eastern coast, and is made up of three small peninsulas. The park fronts onto four bays and is a recreation park, planned and developed with outdoor activities, exercise and fun in mind.

With various walking tracks you can enjoy safe swimming and spectacular views. 

The area has a long and rich history of human occupation, which is reflected in the numerous archaeological sites in the park. Waitawa is of great importance to Māori as it is located upon a traditional boundary line between Te Urikaraka (Ngāti Paoa) and Ngāti Kohua (Ngai Tai / Te Waiohua).

Tāpapakanga is an attractive coastal farm park, with a rich Māori and European history and offers an accessible, pōhutukawa edged on the western shores of the Firth of Thames, and overlooked by the Ashby Homestead.

The Tāpapakanga Stream winds its way through the park.

With a somewhat rocky beach the water provides great safe swimming.  With walks and various camping facilties as well as home to the annual Splore Music Festival Tapapakanga is a perfect spot for some relaxation

Over the hill from Clevedon is the village of Hunua, gateway to the bush-clad Hunua Ranges with its many tramping tracks – east Auckland’s answer to the Waitakere Ranges. Its most popular attraction is the Hunua Falls – arguably among New Zealand’s most spectacular. 

This natural playground includes bush clad ranges with streams, waterfalls and magnificent vistas. You can enjoy the largest native forest with your family on one of many walks. The Hunua Falls are a great place for a picnic, but swimming is not recommended so do so at your own risk and take note of the warning signs.

NZ Warbirds at Ardmore hosts New Zealand’s most diverse range of historic and airworthy aircraft in one location, spread over two hangars.  These amazing flying machines are showcased at their air shows during the year, and pleasure flights in various old and newer planes can be enjoyed with an experienced pilot.

With WWI and WWII and later aircraft this museum is a must visit for all aviation enthusiasts.