Kia ora and welcome to our piece of paradise!
We are thrilled to have you here.
Whangaruru Beachfront Camp is perfectly positioned on the shores of beautiful Parutahi Bay, nestled just inside the entrance of the Whangaruru Harbour, with Oākura Beach to one side and Ohawini Bay to the other. That’s three stunning beaches, all within easy reach, in the heart of Northland’s spectacular east coast.
The camp’s beachfront location offers a safe swimming and peaceful setting that’s perfect for relaxing, kayaking, and boating. The beach is generally calm, making it ideal for all ages – and many families return each summer to enjoy this special spot.
Originally located “over the hill” at the north end of Oakura Bay, the camp was moved to it’s current location, and has grown over the years, becoming a beloved summer destination for many returning families.
Whangaruru Harbour is a large sheltered harbour surrounded by small, peaceful communities. It’s a haven for marine life – with dolphins and even orca often spotted in the harbour and offshore. It’s a popular anchorage for passing yachts and a perfect area to explore by kayak or boat. At night, the native forest that surrounds the harbour comes alive with birdsong, and if you’re lucky, you might hear the call of the little brown kiwi.
Rich in Māori history, the harbour and isthmus are the ancestral home of Ngātiwai iwi. Many historical pā (fortified village) sites remain in the area. While most are on private land, there is public access to one pā site on the Kirikiri Headland.
Our beaches
Parutahi Bay, home to the camp, is a peaceful, sheltered spot perfect for swimming, kayaking, and boating.
Just a few minutes walk away is Ohawini Beach, which is another local gem that is a excellent safe beach for families of small children, making it great for swimming, and collecting kaimoana (seafood). Divers often explore Henry Rock, a known spot for crayfish.
Oākura Bay is a one-kilometre east facing beach with clean white sand waters protected by offshore islands. It’s excellent for swimming, boogie boarding, surfing, and kayaking. According to local kaumātua, the name Oākura refers to Ao-ā-kura, meaning “the light that comes with the red sky” – a nod to the unforgettable sunrises and sunsets here. The beach is also great for long walks, sand play, climbing around the southern rocks, and discovering the large rock pool, or nearby Goat Island.
Exploring the Area
Just a few minutes drive south brings you to the scenic Helena Bay and peaceful Teal Bay. Be sure to visit the Helena Bay Gallery – a perfect spot for breakfast or lunch, with a beautiful shop showcasing local arts and crafts, and lovely gardens to explore.
Heading 30 minutes north, leads you to Whangaruru North, Bland Bay, and Puriri Bay – all offering even more unspoiled coastal beauty, excellent fishing, swimming and walking. Puriri Bay Campsite is set in a remote and scenic part of the Whangaruru Peninsula, truly feels like a hidden paradise.
Mimiwhangata Coastal Walks
Peninsula Loop Walk is a two-hour return walk that offers the very best of Mimiwhangata: shady beaches, rocky shores, archaeological sites, rolling farmland, native bush, and abundant birdlife. Signs along the way guide you from the main carpark around the headland.
Puriri Track starts on the right side of the road as you enter the park, then climbs steeply through the valley and up the ridge, offering gorgeous views across the peninsula and out toward the Poor Knights Islands. You can return the way you came or continue down to the coast and loop back via the beach.
Or….. you can just relax, breath in the sea air, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere that makes Whangaruru so special.
