Duder Regional Park

Duder Regional Park is a stunning 148-hectare coastal playground offering families a perfect blend of beach adventures, easy walking trails, and wide open spaces for kids to roam freely. With its safe swimming beaches, fascinating rock pools to explore, and sheep-dotted farmland that feels like a storybook come to life, this free park delivers a quintessential Kiwi outdoor experience that will keep children entertained for hours.

• ✓Two beautiful beaches perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, and paddling in calm waters
• ✓Fascinating rock pools teeming with marine life to discover at low tide
• ✓Easy farm walking trails where kids can see sheep grazing and enjoy spectacular Hauraki Gulf views
• ✓Wide open grassy areas ideal for flying kites, playing games, and letting kids run freely
• ✓Native coastal forest sections with birdwatching opportunities including tui and fantails

1. 1.Arrive early (by 9:00 AM) on weekends and holidays to secure parking, as this popular spot fills up quickly during peak times, especially in summer.
2. 2.Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water since there are no food vendors or cafes within the park. The designated picnic areas offer stunning coastal views.
3. 3.Bring sturdy shoes for walking trails, plus sandals for beach play. The terrain varies from grassy farmland to rocky shores, so having both options is essential.
4. 4.Check tide times before visiting. Low tide reveals the best rock pools for kids to explore marine life like crabs, sea anemones, and small fish.
5. 5.Apply sunscreen generously and bring hats. New Zealand's sun is particularly strong due to lower ozone levels, and the coastal location offers little shade on trails.

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday) between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM for smaller crowds and calmer conditions. Summer (December to February) offers the warmest weather for swimming, but spring (September to November) provides comfortable temperatures with fewer visitors and vibrant wildflowers.

Entry is completely free with ample parking near the entrance. There are basic toilet facilities but no cafes or shops, so bring all food, drinks, and supplies. The park has some accessible paths, though coastal trails can be uneven.

Open year-round, but summer (December to February) is most popular for beach activities. Winter (June to August) can be windy and cold for swimming but still great for walks. Check Auckland Council website for any temporary closures during extreme weather or lambing season (typically August to October when some farm areas may have restricted access).

Head to Clevedon Village (10 minutes drive) for the Clevedon Village Farmers Market on Sundays, or visit Kawakawa Bay (15 minutes away) which has a fish and chip shop and small cafe with outdoor seating perfect for families.