Tauranga Bay's Scenic Beauty
Tauranga Bay, located in Northland, New Zealand, is a stunning stretch of white-to-gold sand beach within the expansive Whangaroa Bay. At 1.2 km, it is the longest beach accessible from Wainui Road, situated between Whangaroa Harbour and Matauri Bay. Facing almost directly north, the beach features a campground at its western end, while the eastern side has car parking and a reserve. Holiday homes line the main road and are nestled behind the reserve. The Tauranga Stream flows across the beach's eastern end, adding to its natural charm.
Natural Features and Activities
The bay is framed by the dramatic landscape of the Tauranga Valley, with towering hills and cliffs, up to 250 metres high, on either side. At low tide, you can cross the stream at the eastern end and explore the cliff and rock pools at Te Anina Point, leading to Marble Bay. A small hole-in-a-rock island is visible as you approach the point. Also towards the eastern end, beyond the low tide line, a series of rocky islands can be seen. These islands provide shelter from the ocean and offer an exploration opportunity if you have access to a boat.
Historical Significance
Tauranga Bay was briefly involved in the Musket Wars. In the 1820s, Europeans began arriving in nearby Whangaroa Harbour, initiating the kauri timber trade and whaling activities. In 1826, Hongi Hika, a prominent Ngāpui rangatira from the Bay of Islands, arrived with 400 warriors. He sought new commercial opportunities with Europeans and aimed to resolve grievances with local Māori over insults to his family. Hongi Hika camped at Tauranga Bay before launching a raid on the harbour in January 1827. Shortly after, he was shot and injured in the Hokianga, in yet another dispute. He returned to Whangaroa Harbour and died 14 months later.
How to Get to Tauranga Bay
To reach Tauranga Bay, take Tauranga Bay Road from Wainui Road near the start of the Tauranga Valley. The drive is approximately 12 minutes and 11 km from Whangaroa, or 21 km and 30 minutes from Matauri Bay.
Other places to visit along scenic Wainui Road include Mahinepua Bay, the Mahinepua Peninsula Track and Te Ngaere.
