Rodney is home to two distinct coastlines, spectacular scenery and an abundance of recreational activities.
Only 20–30 minutes from Auckland, the area has over 1000 kilometres of stunning coastline, from the calm waters of the east coast to the awesome surf of the west. Rodney also includes a number of regional parks, areas of special interest and beautiful walking tracks.
Blessed with an abundance of outstanding natural beauty Rodney is home to a number of conservation projects.
New Zealand’s first marine reserve at Goat Island officially opened in 1977 and covers a coastline of around five kilometres and extends out to sea by 800 metres, a total of 547 hectares of reserve. All marine life within the reserve is protected.
Off the coast of Rodney are the islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Kawau Island with the historic Mansion House typifying colonial New Zealand is accessible daily by ferry from Sandspit wharf.
The world renowned Tiritiri Matangi Island, situated just four kilometres off the Whangaparaoa Peninsula is home to rare and endangered birds like the Takahe. Tiritiri Matangi was gazetted as an open Scientific Reserve in 1980. Ferries leave for the island from Gulf Harbour.
To the west of the region there is Muriwai with a rare on-shore gannet colony and amazing dramatic scenery. And for majestic views you can’t get much better than the Kaipara Harbour which is the largest enclosed harbour in the southern hemisphere.
Rodney also has a number of fabulous regional parks, a variety of beautiful lakes and numerous walking tracks catering for all levels of ability.
Top off a visit to Rodney with a visit to the thermal mineral pools at Waiwera and Parakai providing therapeutic relaxation in conjunction with wild, water rides.
Regional Parks
- Shakespear
- Te Rau Puriri
- Mahurangi
- Scandrett
- Wenderholm
- Atiu Creek
- Pakiri
- Tawharanui
Lakes
- Kereta
- Ototoa
- Spectacle
- Kuwakatai
- Slipper
- Tomarata
Accommodation
Visitors to the region can experience a variety of different styles of accommodation from backpacker hostels and camp grounds to exclusive boutique style home stays and family friendly motels.
The council owns and operates three holiday parks and a camping ground.
Visitor Information Centres
Visitor Information Centres are located at the following towns: - Orewa, Matakana, Helensville, Kumeu and Warkworth.
