Whakamahi Lagoon

South of the Wairoa river mouth, this wildlife reserve has no walking track but a road alongside gives access to the beach and lagoon. The old dam wall has washed away so the lagoon now fills with the tide, drawing wetland birds. The beach is unsafe for swimming but good for beachcombing and surfcasting.

Good to know

• The beach is not safe for swimming
• DOC's Wairoa brochure says freedom camping is available here, check the Wairoa District Council freedom camping rules before you stay
• No walking track, use the road

Open

All year

Getting there

Follow the Wairoa river around south of the river mouth

Vehicles

Fine in any car

The location is approximate. Check the official website before you go.

Data: Roadtrip. Things change: check opening times, prices and rules before you go.