There’s a special, sunny feeling that comes with crossing the Harbour Bridge and arriving on the Shore. Families are drawn here for the great schools and safe neighbourhoods. Professionals value the lifestyle and city access. Retirees enjoy the peaceful pace and strong sense of community.
From Devonport to Long Bay and out to Hobsonville, the Shore is a region of contrast and character - where beach meets bush, and village meets city. Whether it’s a coastal walk, a café catch-up or a full family day out, life on the Shore gives you room to breathe - and time to enjoy the things that matter.
It’s coastal, community-focused and easy to love. Locals walk the waterfront in the mornings, head out on the water in the afternoons, and still get home in time for dinner.
Takapuna Beach is a favourite for families and dog walkers, while Long Bay and Milford offer quieter, more relaxed options. Barry’s Point Reserve, Little Shoal Bay and Chelsea Estate Heritage Park are well-used green spaces - ideal for walking, running, picnics and play.
With strong environmental groups, local sports clubs and a love of the outdoors, this is a lifestyle that makes the most of where you live.
Warm, welcoming and proud to be local. From Devonport’s creative spirit to Albany’s growing urban energy, each suburb has its own personality.
Neighbourhoods are often centred around schools, sports fields or community centres. You'll find local events across the calendar - including the Takapuna Beach Cup (waka ama), Devonport’s Arts Festival and the famous North Shore Marathon - all of which bring locals together and celebrate the area’s shared sense of place.
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The Shore is well-equipped with public libraries, medical centres, playgrounds, shopping hubs and public transport all close to home.
The North Shore Hospital in Takapuna provides A&E and specialist services, while GP clinics and private practices are available across the region.
Takapuna and Albany offer the largest shopping zones - with retail, supermarkets, eateries and entertainment in one place. For a more local feel, suburbs like Devonport and Milford feature boutique stores and village-style centres.
Bonus: There’s no shortage of sports facilities either - from netball stadiums to tennis clubs, rugby fields, and the world-class AUT Millennium fitness centre.
Possibly better than you think! The Northern Busway offers fast, dedicated-lane travel between key stations like Constellation, Smales Farm and Akoranga, making it easy to get in and out of the CBD without the stress of driving.
Ferry services run from Devonport, Bayswater, Birkenhead, Northcote Point and Hobsonville Point - offering a scenic, reliable route into the city. For drivers, State Highway 1 and the Upper Harbour Motorway connect the region with the wider Auckland network.
Looking for a home near a bus route or ferry stop? Explore listings →
The North Shore is home to some of Auckland’s top-performing schools. These include:
You’ll also find respected primary schools such as Campbells Bay School, Sunnynook School, Takapuna Primary and Browns Bay School - all known for strong leadership, supportive learning and community involvement.
The North Shore has something for everyone, from classic weatherboard homes and family-friendly sections to sleek new builds, townhouses and apartments.
In established suburbs like Devonport, Milford and Takapuna, you’ll find a mix of heritage villas and bungalows, modern renovations and architecturally designed properties. Up the coast and further inland, areas like Albany, Unsworth Heights and Greenhithe offer newer homes, larger blocks and a little more space to spread out.
There’s real variety here, and that’s part of the appeal. Some suburbs are tightly held and highly sought-after. Others offer great entry points, development potential or long-term investment value. Whether you're after a first home, a do-up, a downsizer or something with water views, there’s plenty to choose from, and local knowledge makes all the difference when it comes to finding the right fit.
Thinking about selling or buying on the Shore? Talk to a local expert →
The Shore’s a terrific playground - whatever your age, stage or speed. Sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming are all on offer along the coastline. The Mairangi Bay Surf Lifesaving Club has been a local fixture since the 1950s.
On land, you’ll find everything from walking tracks through native bush to playgrounds, dog parks and weekend sport. Popular spots include the Long Bay Regional Park walking trail, the coastal walkway from Milford to Takapuna and the scenic tracks around North Head and Fort Takapuna Reserve. Windsor Reserve and Little Shoal Bay also remain firm favourites - offering green space and sparkling harbour views close to home.
Want room for the paddleboard? Check listings near the coast →
There’s always something on - and it’s not all about the beach (although the coastline’s a big drawcard). The Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna hosts theatre, comedy and music, while The Pumphouse Theatre by Lake Pupuke is a long-time local favourite for intimate plays and community productions. North Shore Music Theatre keeps the spotlight on local talent year-round, adding to the region’s vibrant creative scene.
There’s also a strong sporting calendar, seasonal markets, food and cultural festivals, and events that bring locals together. Whether you’re into art, fitness, food, or simply relaxing with a view - there’s something for everyone here.
