Sunday, April 21, 2019

Wharariki Beach Archway Islands New Zealand



Wharariki Beach and Archway Islands 

Puponga - New Zealand

Archway Islands New Zealand
Archway Islands from Cave

At the most northern tip of the South Island of New Zealand you have Cape Farewell and to the west you will find Wharariki Beach(top of the Kiwi's Head) A short 20min walk through Department of Conservation land (Puponga farm park) that was once owned by the Riley's. The walking track will bring you out at the top of a small sand dune with a view down the beach and the Archway Islands. Best time is at low tide and it can get very windy,  seals can be found coming ashore to rest in some of the caves along the beach, Oyster catchers black and white and black ones can be seen feeding along the waters edge with other sea birds.


Archway Islands
Archway Islands - Wharariki Beach

Seal resting on Wharariki Beach
Seal resting on Beach


Archway Islands

Top of the Sand dunes, Wharariki Beach
Getting There:
From Collingwood follow the signs to Puponga, crossing a large single lane bridge over the Aorere River, through Ferntown and on to Pakawau, turn right after crossing the bridge, Ocean on your right. Once you reach Puponga you can drive up to the Farewell spit lookout (there is a good coffee shop at the end of the road) Back out to the main road turn right 20mins and you will of reach the parking area where the trail starts.
Top of the Hill above carpark, looking towards Beach
 We stayed at the Collingwood Park Motel on the Main Street of Collingwood, very nice.