An impressive black-sand beach on the west coast, around 60 kilometers long, famous for its gannet colony at Ōtakamiro Point, which draws thousands of birds every year.
Around 3.5 hours' drive south of Waipoua Forest.
Just a few minutes' walk from the beach, an ideal base for exploring the area and visiting the famous gannet colony at Ōtakamiro Point. Very good value for money, $24 per person/night. Friendly and helpful operators, clean, modern showers and toilets, well-equipped kitchen, laundry room with washer, dryer, iron, WiFi available.
Verdict: Excellent facilities and a great location near the beach, the perfect spot for anyone who wants to enjoy nature and a comfortable stay.
One of the few mainland breeding grounds of the Australasian gannet in New Zealand. Every year from August to March, hundreds of these impressive seabirds nest here on the rocks right along the coast. We walked up the rocky path and climbed the steps to the viewpoints, and up there we got a beautiful sight: countless gannets sitting close together on the grassy rocks, while others glided elegantly through the air.
On the rugged west coast, known for dark volcanic sand, powerful surf and an impressive, open coastal landscape. Especially popular with surfers, the waves are consistent and powerful, but there are calmer spots for beginners too.
About 15 minutes by van from Muriwai Beach, parked at the small lot on Horsman Road, where the shoe-cleaning station is also located (important, since kauri trees grow along the trail). From the parking lot we walked around 35 minutes through dense, green forest to the swing bridge, the path is easy to walk, but the warm, humid climate in the forest works up quite a sweat. Free.
Verdict: A lovely, short detour inland, ideal when you feel like some movement and nature in between other stops.