Scandrett Regional Park

If Tawharanui is the exuberant little brother and Pakiri the beautiful, quiet sister, then Scandrett is the nurturing mother. Come, it says, rest your head. Relax. Turn off your phone.

Stay a while.

Scandrett Regional Park has three baches, all for hire and all a stone’s throw from the ocean. If you want to do more than swim or read a book, there are several walking tracks, plus an historic homestead and outbuildings to explore. With the soundtrack of the sea and native wildlife, it’s easy to imagine what life would have been like for the original settlers.

The Scandrett family arrived in 1863, turning what was a shipbuilding site into their family farm, which they continued to work until 1998. Many of the original buildings remain and now bear plaques that outline their historical significance.

STAY: There are three dwellings which sleep from two to eight people. They are all BYO bedding and entertainment, with no TV or internet. Snells Beach is only a short drive from the park so you won’t go hungry should the chips and dip run out. The prices range from $97 to $146 a night during peak periods. Book at least six months in advance, especially during summer.

HELP THE HABITATS: All of the regional parks rely on volunteers to help with replanting, maintenance, pest control and public viewings.

To find out more about how to help preserve and protect the regional parks, visit regionalparks.

aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/activity/volunteering

Baileys Cottage has six beds and a small bathroom.