Exploring the Manukau Harbour Coastline
Located on the Manukau Harbour coast, on the suburban edge of the Waitākere Ranges in Auckland, Laingholm Point is an interesting destination for those interested in coastal walks and birdwatching. As the tide recedes, you can explore the area on foot, moving between various beaches and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Walking Routes and Scenic Views
The coastline is an opportunity to traverse much of the Manukau Harbour coast at low tide, with several small beaches to discover along the way.
Begin your walk in Alex Jenkins Reserve, above Jenkins Bay, at the end of South Titirangi Road. Laingholm Point is a short walk southwest as the tide retreats. At the Point, you can explore the rock pools with the abundance of pre-breeding age oyster catchers and look across Little Muddy Creek estuary to Laingholm Bay.
You also have the option to walk north, back past Jenkins Bay, to Davies Bay and Davies Bay Reserve, then on to Paturoa Bay and Titirangi Beach, along the rocky foreshore. If you are so inclined, the next stop north is Shag Point and French Bay.
Birdwatching Opportunities
The Manukau Harbour coast is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The area is particularly known for its abundance of younger oystercatchers, before they reach breeding age at around 3 years old or more. Unlike more mature birds, which mate for life, the youngsters hang out in significant, active gangs, especially over Winter.
The oyster catchers remain in New Zealand, but the harbour is also part of the East Asian–Australasian Flyway. Many Arctic‑breeding waders arrive to spend their non‑breeding season here (August to March). Some of the migratory species you may spot include Bar‑tailed Godwit (from Alaska), Red Knot, Ruddy Turnstone, Golden Plover, and the Red‑necked Stint.
How to Get There
To reach Laingholm Point, take South Titirangi Road from Titirangi Road in Titirangi Village. There is moderate parking available at the Alex Jenkins Reserve on the point. From there, as the tide retreats, you can walk as far north as Titirangi Beach, accessed on Titirangi Beach Road.
Titirangi Beach Road also provides access to the Zig Zag Track, which connects with the village via Park Road. If you continue southeast along the harbour, you will reach Cornwallis Beach, Cornwallis Wharf, Kakamatua, Kaitarakihi Bay and Huia.
