Matauri Bay

Locals call the road overlooking this bay “Million Dollar View Road,” and once you arrive, you’ll understand exactly why. The long white sand beach with crystal-clear turquoise water is one of the most photographed in Northland. Pohutukawa trees back the beach, bursting into brilliant red blooms in summer. The water is so clear you can see the sandy bottom even in deep water.

The Rainbow Warrior memorial sits prominently on the headland, commemorating the Greenpeace ship bombed in Auckland Harbour on 10 July 1985. The vessel was later scuttled here, where it now serves as a popular dive site and thriving fish sanctuary. The sheltered northern end provides calm conditions perfect for families, while the southern end picks up more surf. Penguins nest at both ends of the beach, dolphins are frequently spotted in the bay, and you can often hear kiwi at night if you’re camping nearby.

Matauri Bay and the Bay of Islands

Matauri Bay sits approximately 53 kilometers northeast of Paihia, making it one of the more distant beaches from the main Bay of Islands townships. This location means fewer crowds and a more authentic Northland beach experience. Unlike the sheltered inner Bay of Islands beaches, Matauri Bay faces more open water, contributing to its exceptional clarity and the surf that arrives at the southern end.

The bay’s remote feel and spectacular beauty have made it a favourite with photographers and those seeking Northland’s quintessential coastal experience. The combination of white sand, turquoise water, native pohutukawa trees, and the memorial creates one of the region’s most photogenic locations.

Getting There and Access

Matauri Bay is located about 53 kilometers northeast of Paihia, roughly a 50-minute scenic drive through Northland’s rolling countryside.

From Paihia/Russell: Head north on State Highway 10 through Kerikeri, then continue north past Kaeo. Turn right onto Matauri Bay Road and follow it to the beach. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes.

From Whangaroa: Matauri Bay can be combined with exploring the Whangaroa area.

From Auckland: The drive takes approximately 4 hours. For detailed directions, see the Auckland to Bay of Islands route guide.

Parking: Free parking is available near the beach. Parking can fill up on busy summer weekends, so arrive early during peak season.

The Beach and Swimming

Matauri Bay stretches for nearly a kilometer, offering ample space even on busy days. The white sand is fine and clean, backed by pohutukawa trees that provide natural shade and stunning visual appeal during summer flowering. The turquoise water is exceptionally clear, with vivid blue-green hues on calm days that give it an almost tropical appearance.

The beach’s geography creates distinct zones. The northern end sits more sheltered with calmer water ideal for families and swimming. The southern end picks up more surf when northeast or east swells arrive. This variation means the beach caters to different interests within a single location.

Water Safety: Matauri Bay is not patrolled. Never swim alone and watch children at all times in and near water. The northern end generally provides calmer, safer swimming for families. Check conditions before entering the water and choose your location accordingly.

Water Quality: The exceptional clarity indicates excellent water quality. As with any beach, avoid swimming for 48 hours after heavy rainfall. Check the LAWA website for current water quality information.

Water temperature ranges from 20-23°C (68-73°F) in summer to around 15-17°C (59-63°F) in winter.

Activities

Swimming and Surfing: The northern end offers calm conditions perfect for families. The southern end picks up surf when northeast or east swells arrive, with the sandy bottom making it forgiving for learners. The surf suits beginners to intermediate surfers.

Snorkeling: The clear water and rocky areas at both ends provide good snorkeling. The northern end near the rocks offers interesting terrain and marine life. Bring your own gear.

Rainbow Warrior Diving: The bombed Greenpeace vessel was scuttled here in 1987 at approximately 25 meters depth. The wreck has become a thriving artificial reef and fish sanctuary, with marine life colonizing the structure extensively. The site suits intermediate to advanced divers. You’ll need to organize diving through a local operator as the site requires boat access.

Fishing: The beach provides options for surf casting, while the waters around the bay offer excellent fishing opportunities. Standard regulations apply.

Rainbow Warrior Memorial: The bronze rainbow sculpture on the northern headland commemorates the 10 July 1985 bombing that killed photographer Fernando Pereira. A short walk from the parking area leads to the memorial with spectacular views and interpretive signage about the ship’s history.

Facilities and Dining

On Site:

• Public toilets
• Free parking
• Limited shade under pohutukawa trees

What to Bring: Bring sunscreen and sun protection, sufficient water and snacks for the day, beach gear and towels, and snorkeling or fishing equipment if you plan those activities.

For more extensive dining and shopping, you’ll need to travel to Kerikeri or the main Bay of Islands townships.

Planning Your Visit to Matauri Bay

Important Rules:

• Swim at your own risk; no lifeguard patrols
• Never swim alone
• Watch children at all times in and near water
• Respect the Rainbow Warrior memorial and wreck site
• Observe all fishing regulations
• Take all rubbish with you

What to Bring:

• Sunscreen and sun protection
• Plenty of water
• Snacks and food
• Beach gear, towels, swimwear
• Snorkeling gear if you have it
• Fishing equipment if planning to fish
• Camera for the spectacular scenery

Best Times to Visit: Matauri Bay is beautiful year-round, but summer (December-February) offers the warmest water and spectacular pohutukawa blooms. The beach can get busy during summer holidays. Autumn (March-May) offers excellent conditions with fewer crowds.

For comprehensive information about planning your Bay of Islands visit, including seasonal weather patterns, see the full planning guide.

Who Matauri Bay is Best For

Matauri Bay particularly suits divers wanting to experience the Rainbow Warrior wreck, families seeking a beautiful beach with good facilities nearby, photographers chasing Northland’s most scenic coastal locations, and visitors willing to drive further for exceptional beauty and fewer crowds.

The journey to Matauri Bay rewards you with one of Northland’s most beautiful beaches, exceptional water clarity, fascinating dive opportunities, and that famous “million dollar view” that locals have named the approach road for.