Shakespeare Regional Park - Whangaparaoa Peninsula

Nothing to do with Shakespeare but a beautiful park at the end of a peninsula jutting out above Auckland.  There are plenty of small bays, bushwalks, native birds such as Tui beating about in the trees, views over the Hauraki gulf, native bush, grassy fields and calm beaches for swimming.

As with most beaches around Auckland there are lots of army relics from the second world war when concrete pill boxes or 'bunkers' were constructed along the coast in defense against Japanese invasion (having subsequently invaded it turns out they just wanted to take photos :). 

The place is also good for fishing and diving (water visibility can be clearer here than other parts of Auckland) but if your not in to either I'd recommend a "walk around the rocks" to explore hidden beaches and coves.
http://www.arc.govt.nz/parks/our-parks/parks-in-the-region/shakespear/