Kaipātiki Explorer

Shepherds Park

The park is named after the Shepherd family who farmed here for several generations. Shepherds Park has playing fields, a playground, tennis, squash and soccer clubs, a fitness trail and a regenerating bush area overlooking Hellyers (Oruamo) Creek, called Hellyers Creek Reserve.

The adjoining headland area, which is being restored to its original coastal bush environment, is well serviced by easy walking paths and tracks.

The headland coastal track entrance is at the foot of Cresta Ave. Proceed up the trail to the large rimu tree, turn left from here and the track leads to a boardwalk through the salt marsh to the Landing and the Mãori midden site. Climb the steps to the upper terraces to enjoy extensive views of the estuary and upper harbour against the Greenhithe escarpment from the lookout.

At low tide, the mud flats support many feeding birds.

Alternatively follow the wheelchair-friendly Fay Sara path which skirts the sports fields starting from either the Beach Haven Road or Melba Street entrance then, by an easily negotiated bush track, carry on to the lookout over the Oruamo estuary.

There is also a Fitness Trail for all to make use of around the upper sportsfield and a childrens bike circuit around the playground.