Fishermans Track in Tāwharanui Regional Park
Fisherman's Track is located in Tāwharanui Regional Park, on the Tawharanui Peninsula in Auckland. The peninsula points into the Hauraki Gulf, and this track connects the northside surf beaches to the south side rocky platforms, perfect for fishing. In doing so, it runs through a regenerating forest, rich with native birds, some of which are very rare. This track is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of forest birdlife and coastal landscapes, offering a unique opportunity to experience both in one walk.
Track Description and Highlights
Fishermans Track begins east of the Anchor Bay car park, next to the park information site. As you follow the path, it crosses a paddock, then runs alongside a stream and the base of a gully to a wetland. Continuing past the wetland, you enter an area of young regrowth forest, then more mature trees, including big puriri.
Gradually, the forest thins out as it approaches the South Coast Track. It's mainly grass above the cliffs on the south coast, and the area is perfect for a picnic. Several spots near the cliff edge provide impressive views of Kawau Island to the south.
The track is about 2 km long and takes 30 minutes each way. The best birdlife is typically seen between the wetlands and the more mature forest in the gully, with a good chance of seeing takahe and tieke.
Accessing the Rocky Platforms
There are also two paths down the cliff to the rocky platforms on the peninsula's south side. One path is a bit challenging, especially in muddy conditions. However, a safer option is located slightly further east after the track intersection. This path features steps that lead down the cliff to a stony beach, providing easier access.
How to Get There
Tāwharanui is approximately a 90-minute drive from Downtown Auckland, via Warkworth and Matakana. From Matakana, take Leigh Road, then turn off onto Takatu Road and follow this all the way to the main car park at Anchor Bay car park. Fishermans Track begins east of the car park by the park information site.
Other tracks to explore in the park include the Ecology Trail, the South Coast and North Coast Tracks, which can be walked as a loop, and the Takatū Loop.
