Tutukaka Coast Regional Information

Situated on Northland's eastern coast, Tutukaka is popular as a base for adventurous holiday makers, providing easy access to swimming, diving, fishing and kayaking activities. The Tutukaka Coast encompasses the port township of Tutukaka, along with Ngunguru, Matapouri Bay, Whale Bay, Whananaki and the Poor Knights Islands.

Driving along the coastline provides independent travelers with beautiful ocean scenery and the chance to stop off at some of the region's finest beaches: Matapouri Bay, a half-moon, golden bay; Whale Bay, accessible only on foot via a native bush reserve; Sandy Bay, a popular surfing spot and the venue for surf championships; Pacific Bay, a safe swimming beach for families; and Ngunguru, a sunny holiday resort. As you drive, you will find yourself amidst fertile farm and orchard lands, with historic stone walls created by 19th century settlers from volcanic rock dating back 10,000 years.

Tutukaka is the entrance point to the Poor Knights Islands marine reserve, a protected area 25 kilometres off the Northland coastline that is highly regarded as a diving spot. The clear waters are ideal for diving and snorkeling, offering divers an underwater experience with a diverse abundance of sea life. The world's largest sea cave is just one of the attractions found there, with an interior space of 7,900,000 cubic feet. The islands themselves are not inhabited, as they are considered tapu, (sacred) by local Maori, and landing on the island is prohibited. Created by a volcanic eruption, the islands have steep cliffs, which plunge 100 metres below sea level in places. Diving and snorkeling tours allow visitors to explore the vast network of underwater caves, archways, kelp forests and harbours surrounding the islands. The wrecks of the Navy ships, the Tui and the Waikato, are also accessible from Tutukaka.

Navigate with our great Tutukaka Coast map to stay on the right track and find what you're looking for when traveling in the region. While you're on the road, be prepared for all seasons with weather forecasts, reports and current information on Northland weather.

For more information on the Tutukaka Coast and the Poor Knights Islands, visit Destination Northland.