30 km north of Kerikeri, Matauri Bay is one of the most beautiful bays in New Zealand. Its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters make it popular for camping, swimming, snorkelling, water sports, horse trails, or just hanging out on the beach. It is also a good location for learning to surf. There is easy boat access to the Cavalli Islands for diving, including the Rainbow Warrior wreck. You will find a monument to the Rainbow Warrior on the point at the bay's north end, with superb views of the islands.
Matauri Bay is important in early NZ history. The English missionary Samuel Marsden, the first to present the Christian gospel to Maori, made his first landfall in NZ there in December 1814. The Ngapuhi rangitira, Hongi Hika, welcomed Marsden’s party, and Marsden established the first mission station in Rangihoua in the Bay of Islands. The small Anglican church, some 400 metres before the beach, is the Samuel Marsden Memorial Church.
Matauri Bay has maintained a strong Māori presence, with two marae supporting iwi and hapu interests. Local Māori are also the guardians of the Rainbow Warrior and its final resting place.
From State Highway 10, take Matauri Bay Road for 17 km to the beach. The small town high above the beach does have some services. From Whangaroa, Matuari Bay is a 25 km, 30-minute drive along scenic Wainui Road.
Thanks to Jan Rozek for providing many of the photos.
