The Tutukaka Coast is a stunning area of natural coastline starting only 20 minutes from Whangarei. Natural beauty abounds on the Tutukaka Coast. Rocky shores, and pristine white sand beaches, stunning coastal bush walks, wildlife and many other natural attractions making it perfect for activities like hiking, swimming and picnicking. Tutukaka is w... Show More
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Things To Do In Tutukaka
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Tourist Information About Tutukaka
The Tutukaka Coast is a stunning area of natural coastline starting only 20 minutes from Whangarei. Natural beauty abounds on the Tutukaka Coast. Rocky shores, and pristine white sand beaches, stunning coastal bush walks, wildlife and many other natural attractions making it perfect for activities like hiking, swimming and picnicking. Tutukaka is widely known for its world-class marine reserve at the Poor Knights Islands accessible by boat from the Tutukaka Marina. The diving and snorkelling here are world-renowned. A total Marine Reserve and Nature Reserve - and pending World Heritage Site - the 11 million-year-old Islands volcanic origins provide myriad spectacular drop-offs, walls, caves, arches and tunnels. Fishing and surfing are popular in this region with regular surfing competitions and surf lessons held at Sandy Bay. There are also many beautiful beaches and walking activities such as the Matapouri Bay to Whale Bay Loop Walk.
Best Attractions and free things to do in Tutukaka
1. Snorkel at the Poor Knights Islands
The Poor Knights Islands have to be at the top of any list of things to do in Tutukaka. The Poor Knights Islands, a collection of islands built by an ancient volcano, are arguably New Zealand's most amazing diving spot. The seas around the islands are a marine reserve, so you may snorkel or dive amid a diverse range of fish, soft corals, sponges, colorful anemones, kelp forests, and other marine life. Out of the water, the islands are breathtaking, with multiple archways and Rikoriko Cave, the world's largest sea cave.
2. Tutukaka Lighthouse
This one-hour round-trip hike is a must-do if you want to see the Tutukaka Coast and the Poor Knights Islands. Follow a grassy path across a headland to a native plant reserve. After that, you'll descend to a beach with a rocky causeway that leads to Kukutauwhao Island, which is best reached at low tide. Climb all the way to the top of the island to see the Tutukaka Lighthouse!
3. Mimiwhangata Coastal Park
The Mimiwhangata Coastal Park is a hidden bit of paradise that you'll be delighted you found. A working farm with animals, sensitive area sand dunes home to exceedingly uncommon brown teal/pateke, and wetlands and bush areas make up the diversified scenery. In addition, the waters off the coast are a protected marine park. Make use of the nearby campground and walking paths for a relaxing evening in the woods!
4. Whangaruru Harbour
The Whangaroa Harbor, near the northern extremity of the Tutukaka Coast, is home to many small villages in an otherwise undeveloped coastal area. Oakura Bay, with its magnificent beach and lodgings, and Bland Bay, on the harbor's northern borders, are popular tourist destinations.
5. Whale Bay
Whale Bay, a curved white sand beach bordered by natural flora, is possibly one of the most scenic beaches in the Tutukaka area. Only a 10-minute walk from the beach car lot or along the Matapouri Bay to Whale Bay Walkway will bring you to this isolated beach. With continuously clear seas, the beach is ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
6. Ngunguru
Ngunguru, the Tutukaka Coast's watersports capital, is a coastal community with an excellent natural playground on the beach. Although there is a water ski track and a boat ramp, if you don't have your own equipment, try surfing or kayaking, both of which can be rented in the village. The Ngunguru Mangrove Walkway, an easy 20-minute return stroll through jungle and across boardwalks through mangrove forests, is another option. Between Munroe Places and Kakariki Road is where the hike begins. Finally, there's a beach walk between Te Maika Road and Whangaumu Bay, but it's best at low tide.
7. Matapouri Bay to Whale Bay Walkway
Enjoy this well-marked journey through native bush and to numerous perspectives to Woolley's Bay and beyond, starting from either Ringer Avenue or the northern end of Matapouri Bay. Whale Bay has side trails that are a must-see! The track returns you to the beginning. This 45-minute loop trek will take you from one beautiful beach to the next.
8. Tane Moana Walkway
Tane Moana is the largest kauri tree on the east coast. The kauri tree has a circumference of 11 meters! The track takes about 4 hours round trip from the end of Clements Road or 40 minutes one way from Waiotoi Road to Tane Moana. The Tane Moana Walkway begins on Clements Road and follows a wide trail through farms and native forest before narrowing and passing through gullies and streams to cross. This is a truly incredible sight to see and one worth the trip!
9. Surf at Sandy Bay
Sandy Bay is a must-see on your Northland road trip if you're looking for some great surf places. In the Northland region, Sandy Bay is one of the most popular east coast surf beaches. In addition, the beach is a favorite destination for families and a perfect site for a picnic. In Tutukaka, surfboards can be rented if you don't have your own. Sandy Bay also offers horseback riding. Something you can do with your friends and family to fill a day with fun!
10. Whananaki
Visit the isolated beach village of Whananaki to get completely off the main drag. Along the coast, you'll find a gorgeous estuary, a sandpit, and classic Kiwi beaches. The village's claim to fame is a 395m footbridge that spans the estuary, making it the world's longest footbridge! While there are camping and picnic places to explore, the Whananaki Coastal Walkway offers spectacular coastal vistas.