Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Matauri & Tauranga Bays
It's a short detour from SH10, but the exceptionally scenic loop route leading inland to
these awesome beaches is a world away from the glitzy face presented for tourists in the
Bay of Islands.
Matauri Bay is a long, sandy surf beach, 18km off SH10, with the 17 Cavalli Islands
scattered offshore.
Matauri Bay Holiday Park
( 09-405 0525;
www.matauribayholidaypark.co.nz
; sites from
$20, units $130-140)
takes up the north end of the beach and has a shop selling groceries,
booze and petrol. On top of the headland above the park is a monument to the
Rainbow
Warrior;
the Greenpeace ship's underwater resting place among the Cavalli Islands is a
popular dive site.
Motukawanui Island, but you'll need a boat or kayak to reach it and you'll need to book
ahead. Only water, mattresses and a composting toilet are provided; bring everything else.
Back on the main road, the route heads west, passing through pleasant Te Ngaere vil-
lage and a succession of little bays before the turn-off to Tauranga Bay, a smaller beach
where the sand is a peachy pink colour.
Tauranga Bay Holiday Park
( 09-405 0436;
www.taurangabay.co.nz
;
sites from $20, cabins $97-170; )
has campsites and log cabins on the
beachfront, but it lacks trees and bears the brunt of the weather. A minimum $59 charge
per night for campsites and a seven-night minimum stay applies in January.
Down a private road leading from Tauranga Bay,
Northland Sea Kayaking
( 09-405 0381;
www.northlandseakayaking.co.nz
;
half-/full-day tours $75/95)
leads kayak explorations of this magical
coastline of coves, sea caves and islands. Accommodation is available in conjunction with
tours for $25 extra per person.
There's no public transport to these parts or to neighbouring Whangaroa.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Whangaroa Harbour
Just around the headland from Tauranga Bay is the narrow entrance to Whangaroa Har-
bour. The small fishing village of Whangaroa is 6km from SH10 and calls itself the
'Marlin Capital of NZ'.
