Man oh man, I love this beach…lots to explore, lots of fun potential. The beach itself is a gorgeous 3km-long crescent of soft pinkish sand with scenic rocks on both ends and a tidal lagoon in the middle. You’ll find great snorkeling at either end of the beach. Waikawau may pack out during the holidays, but past Waitangi Day this bay is solitude city. The south end is the popular end because of the campground there, but a walk to the far north end (or a faster drive to the road-bend grassy carpark) makes for great romance. Bring your sweetie, a blanket and a bottle of wine. Wade the river mouth and up the rocks to the perfect grassy perch…ahhh, the sun setting over the hills, waves breaking in circles at your feet, mmmmm, love.
Calm day on the bay?? At the north end of the beach is a sign for hire kayaks (at the farm). Totally excellent way to explore north to the seldom-seen coastline.
Matamataharakeke Track. This may be the funnest-to-say track name in NZ! The track also leads to the best lookout in the area. From the campground (where there are maps) it’s 65 minutes to the top. The first half is easy along the stream, but the second half is pretty steep. When you get to the sign for the Ridge Track keep left for 7 more steep minutes. The lookout is worth it! Kennedy Bay to the south, Colville Bay to the west...Waikawau below... wow. The Ridge track down is steep and only takes 40 minutes.
Little Bay. Don’t miss this little pearl just a short drive south of Waikawau. Head to the east end to the tiny cove and look for the “Kiwi Zone” trapper’s trail. This tramp’ll take 7 minutes to the ridge view…but keep going 7 more to a much better viewpoint. Wau, ooooh look, Haupapa Bay! Details for this track are available at the Little Bay Pak ‘n’ Save.
