Hauraki is the Maori word for North Wind. Taking its name from this word the Hauraki Gulf is located in the North Island of New Zealand and is a beautiful coastal area. A part of the Pacific Ocean, the gulf is protected by both the Great Barrier Island and Little Barrier Island.
There are many great spots for surfing and swimming here. Bottlenose dolphins and common dolphins are found here widely, while whales and orcas are spotted here too. The gulf is also home to many bird species, and some areas are even official sanctuaries while others hold an unofficial status.
Positioned to give a beautiful view of this gulf is the Durder Regional Park. Located in the south of the park are salt marshes and shell banks. This is where the endangered New Zealand Dotterel nests. People are asked to stay specifically off this place to protect the birds. But there is plenty of space within the park’s perimeters for long walks, mountain bike rides and picnics.
The Duder regional park is spread across 400 acres. It was initially owned by the Duder family and before them by the Maori people. The land was purchased in 1886 from Ngai Tai by Thomas Duder and for almost 130 years his descendants farmed on this land. In 1995 they sold it to the Auckland Regional Council. In 2010 another 13.7 hectares were added to the park’s boundaries so that coastal development would not obstruct the spectacular view from the park.
Other activities at the park include horse riding and shell picking. During summer it is open from 8.00am to 9.00pm while winter opening times are from 8.00am to 7.00pm. It is a great place for a family outing but if you have dogs they will have to be left behind as the native animals and birds are not used to them.
Those visiting the region and looking for Auckland hotel accommodation near waterfront areas should stay at Copthorne Hotel Auckland Harbour City. This Auckland hotel has not only a beautiful view but is also conveniently close to shopping arcades, entertainment spots and other attractions, making it an ideal base for your travels.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
