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The Park is named after the Shepherd family who farmed here for several generations.
Shepherds Park consists of 14 hectares of land. The adjoining headlands area, which is being restored to its original coastal bush environment, is well serviced by easy walking paths and tracks.
The Headland is situated on historic Hellyer's Creek, which was the site of Maori occupation for centuries before Thomas Hellyer took up the kauri milling enterprise in 1840. The timber was used in establishing the new capital that was called Auckland.
The Headland entrance is at the foot of Cresta Ave. Proceed up the trail to the large rimu tree, from here this track leads to the new boardwalk through the salt marsh to the Landing and the Maori midden site. Climb the steps to the upper terraces to enjoy extensive views of the estuary and upper harbour against the Greenhithe escarpment. At low tide, the mud flats support many feeding birds.
Follow the wheelchairfriendly Fay Sara path which skirts the sports fields then, by an easily negotiated bush track, carry on to the lookout over the Oruamo estuary. Easy access is also provided to the Birkdale / Beach Haven Heritage Centre.
This new pavilion contains historic and ecological information plus a BBQ. The ongoing restoration project is being achieved as a partnership between North Shore City Council and a volunteer group 'Friends of Shepherds Park'.
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