While this looks like private lawn, it is in fact still part of the crown, so don't worry about walking on the flat bit by the shed.
If you see anyone on the deck above, wave. They will be family members (who are looking after the cache for us).
The nearby pohutakawa has a nice little bit of sand under it, if you want to set yourself up to spend the day near a bit of shade. Sometimes the main beach is too busy or windy. The water is great and the cockles are coming back quite nicely in the river area. At low tide, you can walk right around the point to the camping grounds (wear shoes). If you make your way across the entrance/river to the Bird Sanctuary (Fairy Terns) at low tide, there are often large pools of water left along the beach that have captured the sun. They are quire pleasant to play or lay in.
During the Christmas season, there are also a couple of trailers at the parking area selling coffee and icecreams.