Exploring Harataonga Bay
Harataonga Bay is a stunning and secluded coastal destination on the northeast coast of Aotea Great Barrier Island, in the Hauraki Gulf of Auckland. The bay’s main sandy stretch, called Overtons Beach, is flanked by native forest, rolling farmland and offshore islands that shelter the shore from the open Pacific. It’s a beautiful slice of coastline that feels far from the everyday, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, fishing, or simply unwinding on the sand.
What Makes Harataonga Special
The area around Harataonga Bay lies mainly within the Harataonga Recreation and Scenic Reserve, which protects regenerating coastal forest and habitat for native birds such as brown teal / pāteke, New Zealand dotterel, oystercatcher, and banded rail. Regrowth native trees, including mānuka, kānuka, nīkau palms and cabbage trees, enhance the landscape.
The short Harataonga Loop Track (about 2.7 km) winds through this forest and up to a fabulous viewpoint over the bay, with stunning wind-affected pōhutukawa trees. The more adventurous can take the longer Harataonga Coastal Walkway, which links to Aotea Road 1.5 km away from the Whangapoua Campsite.
Harataonga Bay Campground
Just a few minutes’ walk inland from Overtons Beach is the DOC Harataonga Campground. Lying between two streams and shaded by mature trees, this campsite has around 60 sites. It has basic facilities including toilets, picnic tables, untreated water (boil before use) and cold showers.
From the campground, it’s about 300 m to the beach, making it an excellent base for swimming, snorkelling and diving. These are all popular activities due to the clear, sheltered waters.
Getting There
To get there from Claris, take Hector Sandrson Road northwest and turn right into Grey Road, which becomes Aotea Road. Follow Aotea Road to the Harataonga Bay access road. The access road is narrow and rough, so take extra care. Once you arrive, park near the campground and follow the track down to the beach. The drive takes 20 minutes and is 12 km.
Other places to visit along the way and nearby include Awana Bay, Windy Canyon and Whangapoua Bay.
