Waipaparoa / Howick Beach

Waipaparoa, also known as Howick Beach, is a sandy stretch along the Tamaki Strait. From here you can see Waiheke Island, Motukaraka Island, and the waters of Hauraki Gulf beyond.

European Fencible settlers arrived at this location in 1847 and established Howick as a defensive settlement under British military authority. This garrison served as protection for the growing colony and played a role in early British settlement of the country.

The beach holds deep meaning for Ngai Tai ki Tamaki, who built two fortified paa structures on this shore. These sites shape the landscape today and speak to the enduring connection between the indigenous people and this place.

The beach is about 500 meters from Howick Village and has car parking available. You can visit during both high and low tide, making it easy to plan your time here.

When the tide goes out, remnants of a wharf built in 1895 emerge from the water. These ruins reveal the maritime past of this place and offer a surprising glimpse into how people once used this shore.