Wenderholm Regional Park

Wenderholm Regional Park spreads across 135 hectares between two river mouths, combining coastal landscapes with native forest that covers much of the terrain. The park has camping grounds and walking trails that lead visitors through different sections of the land.

The site became Auckland's first regional park in 1965 when local authorities purchased it to protect the land from being subdivided and developed. This creation established a new approach to preserving natural spaces in the region.

The land has deep roots in Māori culture, with the name Te Awa Puhoi reflecting its traditional importance to the people who lived here. Visitors walking through today can sense this long relationship between people and place at different spots along the paths.

Visitors can camp at designated sites where toilets and water are available for use. Walking paths are spread across the park to suit different abilities and allow visitors to choose their own route.

Part of the park was set aside for ecological restoration where native bird species were brought back to the land after many years of absence. This work shows how deliberate efforts can rebuild habitats for animals that had disappeared from the area.