Nature and conservation
Whangaroa is characterised by unique landforms and outstanding scenery. The harbour features spectacular rocky bluffs and prominent ridge systems of eroded volcanoes clad in some of the last diverse coastal conifer/broadleaf/kauri forest in New Zealand.
Pekapeka Bay is a place with spectacular cliffs and rock formations with some fine regenerating forest.
Several threatened plants such as Calystegia marginata, Pimelea tomentosa and Coprosma neglecta spp “Whangaroa” can be found in the area.
The harbour contains small but important areas of mangrove/saltmarsh wetlands and tidal rivers with banded rail and fernbird.
The open coast is characterised by rocky headlands such as the Mahinepua Peninsula, sandy beaches, and the numerous islands of the Cavalli Group. Motukawanui Island, the largest island of the Cavalli group is highly modified but has high restoration potential.
History and culture
Typical of rich coastal areas, a wide variety of defended and undefended pa, archaic middens, terraces, gardening systems, urupa, wahi tapu and other archaeological features are present. Sites associated with early Maori/European contact include the remains of the ‘Boyd’ buried in the harbour mud.
Kauri milling and ship building are long established industries and one of the last kauri sawmills and shipyards, operated by Lanes & Sons for over a century, can be seen at Totara North.
The ‘Rainbow Warrior’ lies at rest off Matauri Bay with a memorial on a nearby pa.
Getting there
Whangaroa Harbour lies on the east coast, north of Kerikeri. You can access this unique area from the many small roads that branch off State Highway 10.
Know before you go
Dogs, fires and camping are not permitted in the reserves.