Tāwharanui Regional Park, Regional park and natural sanctuary on Kawau Bay, New Zealand.
Tawharanui Regional Park is a 590-hectare protected area on the northern edge of Kawau Bay featuring sandy beaches, rocky shores, wetlands, and native forests. The landscape encompasses diverse habitats that create varied natural environments across the entire site.
The land held traditional significance for local Maori tribes before being officially established as a regional park in 2008. This transition marked an important shift in how the area was managed and protected.
Native bird species such as tui, kaka, bellbirds, and North Island robins can be observed throughout the park's forests and coastal areas. These birds form an integral part of the area's natural community and are central to the park's role as a refuge for endangered species.
There are no shops or services within the park, so visitors should bring water and supplies from nearby towns like Warkworth or Matakana. Planning ahead ensures a comfortable experience during your visit.
A predator-proof fence encloses the area, creating one of New Zealand's first integrated open sanctuaries. This approach allows nature conservation, sustainable farming, and public recreation to coexist in the same space.
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