Matauri Bay – Beach, water sports and history
Accommodation in Matauri Bay
Matauri Bay combines crystal-clear water and golden sandy beaches with distinctive cultural landmarks and views of the Cavalli Islands. Swimming, snorkelling and water sports shape the character of the bay; at the same time, the Rainbow Warrior Memorial and Mataatua II recall different chapters of history. You can tailor your trip to what interests you most: time by the water, scenic views or cultural discoveries.
Beach and water activities
Matauri Bay is popular for swimming and snorkelling. Surfers and other water sports enthusiasts are also drawn here. However, surfing conditions depend on particular circumstances: with an easterly or south-easterly swell and at high tide, the bay can offer good surfing conditions. So if surfing is part of your plans, it is worth keeping a close eye on these conditions.
The rocks around Matauri Bay offer opportunities for diving and fishing. This means there are different ways to experience the coast, from swimming and snorkelling in the bay to activities among the rocks. There are also camping options right on the beach. If you are planning this type of accommodation, check current availability before your trip.
Views of the bay and the Cavalli Islands
A ridge above Matauri Bay offers panoramic views across the cape and onwards to the Cavalli Islands. This is a different perspective from the Motukawanui Island Track: the trail on the nearby island offers views of Matauri Bay. Together, these provide two distinct landscapes—the view from above across the cape and islands, and the view of the bay from the track.
Motukawanui Island can be reached by boat; in good weather, it can also be reached by kayak. As weather and launch conditions can change, and the condition of the track may vary, check conditions before setting out on such an excursion. Matauri Bay has a safe boat-launching facility for trips out to the Cavalli Islands. Check the latest launching conditions before you go.
Memorials and Māori culture
The Rainbow Warrior Memorial is a worthwhile place to visit in Matauri Bay. It commemorates the sinking of the Rainbow Warrior by French agents in 1985. Sculptor Chris Booth created the memorial between 1988 and 1990. The two dates put the memorial and the event into context: the sinking took place in 1985, and the memorial was created several years later.
Another cultural landmark is Mataatua II, a Māori war waka in Matauri Bay. The waka commemorates the great Pacific migration, through which Māori arrived in New Zealand about 700 years ago. The memorial and Mataatua II therefore refer to different histories: one to an event in 1985, the other to a much earlier migration. Both are specific cultural features of the destination.
Activities and accommodation planning
There are also options to consider when planning your trip beyond the water. Matauri Bay is popular with golfers, and the Kauri Cliffs golf resort is located in the destination. There are also horse-riding trails. If you enjoy filling your days with a variety of activities, golf and horse riding are options to consider alongside the beach and water sports.
Beach camping is an option right on the beach; Kauri Cliffs is another specific point of interest in the area. Choose the focus that suits your trip, and check the latest conditions when making specific plans.
Discover more destinations: Haruru, Whangaroa, Te Kao, Opua, Okaihau, Waitangi, Te Tii, Ahipara.
Go to the main travel overview: Far North District.
