Discover Long Beach / Wharauwerawera
Long Beach / Wharauwerawera is northeast of Dunedin on the Pacific Coast, with Pūrākaunui to the northwest and Whareakeake to the southeast. The small settlement of Long Beach sits just behind the beach.
This surf beach is three km long and is a bit more remote and less well known than other Dunedin beaches. However, it is attractive with white sand and plenty of space. The main entrance to the beach is roughly in the middle. As you walk north, there is a significant cliff face, popular with rock climbers, and a substantial sea cave, adding points of interest. You may also spot penguins and seals.
The English name is a straightforward reference to its length, but the Māori name Wharauwerawera is somewhat obscure, being a combination of the words for small dwelling (or cook house) and sweat.
The beach is unpatrolled and not considered safe for swimming, but is used by surfers. Stick to an incoming tide if you must swim.
How to get there
From Dunedin, take State Highway 88 to Port Chalmers. From Port Chalmers, follow Blueskin Road into the steep hills above Otago Harbour to the turnoff onto Heyward Point Road. After 2 km on Heyward Point Road, take Purakaunui Road, then Mihiwaka Road to the beach access. The drive takes about 45 minutes from central Dunedin.
The nearby Orokonui Ecosanctuary, the walk to the Organ Pipes and Port Chalmers are natural add-ons to a visit.
