Discover Buckleton Beach
Buckleton Beach is a little-known, peaceful, pōhutukawa‑lined small bay on the sheltered southern side of the Tāwharanui Peninsula, on the west side of the Hauraki Gulf in Auckland. Set on Wanns Bay (part of Kawau Bay) and off the beaten track, it has a wide grassy reserve for picnics, safe swimming, and a boat ramp, perfect for low‑key family beach days close to Matakana.
The edge of he beach has a low cliff front with overhanging, mature pōhutukawa trees, in some cases ancient and spectacular, with houses tucked discreetly behind the reserve. The high tide comes right up to the top of the beach, so it’s best to plan to arrive at least an hour or so after high tide.
The area around this attractive bay and beach was originally cleared of their kauri and other native trees, then farmed. In the late 1950s, the land was subdivided, creating the small beach communities with an almost timeless sensibility. Nearby Millons Bay is a similar option.
Getting there
From Matakana, take Leigh Road, turn right onto Takatu Road, then left onto Buckleton Road to the beach reserve. It takes about 10 minutes to get there.
Tāwharanui Regional Park, Ōmaha Beach, and Leigh are all within a short drive.
