Maraetai
Maraetai in Franklin Auckland is a coastal community on the eastern edge of the region, forming part of the Pōhutukawa Coast alongside neighbouring Beachlands. Overlooking the Hauraki Gulf, Maraetai is known for its sandy beaches, sweeping sea views and relaxed seaside atmosphere.
The shoreline here is more expansive and open than nearby bays, with popular swimming beaches, picnic reserves and coastal walkways stretching along the waterfront. Pohutukawa trees line parts of the coast — particularly vibrant during summer — giving the area its distinctive identity. Boating, paddleboarding and family beach days define much of life along the bay.
While close to Auckland via road and ferry connections from Pine Harbour, Maraetai maintains a distinct coastal character. For those exploring Franklin Auckland, it offers accessible beachfront living, Gulf views toward Waiheke Island and a strong sense of community shaped by sea and shoreline.
Maraetai is one of the many towns and settlements that make up the Franklin region. You can explore all Franklin towns on our interactive map here.
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Coastlines
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Franklin stories in Maraetai
Duder Regional Park
On Franklin’s eastern edge, Duder Regional Park stretches out into the Hauraki Gulf, a peninsula surrounded by sea and sky. It’s the first part of the region to greet each sunrise, as the day breaks across the water and the land glows gold. For early walkers, it feels...
duder purple sky
Duder Regional Park features a lush colour palette everywhere you look.
Maraetai Beach
Tucked along Franklin’s eastern shoreline, Maraetai is a seaside township with a charm all its own. Its name, meaning “meeting place by the sea,” reflects its history as a gathering point, where rolling hills meet sheltered bays. With sweeping views across the Hauraki...