Our councillors, local board and local MPs have campaigned on and supported our call for transition to a regional park. What will it take to make it happen, and what benefits will this bring to Kaipātiki?
Park land is already in existence
There is no requirement for council to purchase further land to create a regional park as the three parks are already established.
Recreational opportunities
The three headland parks provide great recreational possibilities for a wide range of activities. Across the three existing parks there are forest walks for various degrees of ability, beaches, wetlands, heritage buildings, pre-European pā sites, and an off-leash dog park, all accessible via a short ferry ride from the Auckland waterfront.
A dedicated ranger
Currently the ranger for the existing three parks has responsibility for a wide ‘portfolio’ of parks extending into North Auckland. A regional park would mean a dedicated ranger, eyes and ears on the ground to deal rapidly with any issues arising. At present, many issues are reported by volunteers to the various agencies of Auckland Council, and matters are not always resolved in a timely or cost effective way.
Business opportunities.
A regional park promoted as accessible from Auckland city via a short ferry or bus ride will be a boon for day trippers and tourists wanting to get out into nature and experience native flora and fauna as well as the heritage attractions of the Headland, also providing a financial boost to local businesses, including our excellent local cafes and restaurants. We see good public transport connections as key in the success of this proposed Regional Park, for reasons of sustainability, and because visitor parking is restricted. This is an opportunity rather than a limitation. Waiheke and Devonport are similarly destinations where access is best served by public transport, and are popular for visitors who want to have an experience in nature but also have options for dining and shopping.
https://cherpa.icepick.co.nz/index.php/2026/08/18/a-very-interesting-report/