Fish and Swim at Lovely Tapotupotu Bay New Zealand

Strong undercurrents rip tides, and Olympic sized mosquitoes characterize small, sandy Tapotupotu Bay New Zealand on the Cape Reinga tour. Beyond a popular picnic area that New Zealand bus tours travel to is a beautiful sheltered bay beach with good swimming, rock platforms that double as fishing perches, and glorious warm sunsets.

This north bay provides views of the twisted legendary pohutukawa tree, famous in Maori mythology as the place where dead spirits slide down its roots to descend into netherworld sea.

The cape location occurs at a point where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean collide in tumultuous spraying waves. The surfing mecca at the southern end of Ninety Mile Beach was featured in the 1960’s movie “The Endless Summer.” The bay offers exhilarating rides on consistent big swells, but caution is advised because of dangerous undertows.

DOC campgrounds are popular New Zealand accommodation in this area, such as that which lies at the end of the beach. One of its campsites renders stunning views of Tapotupotu Bay from its hilltop location. Standard campsites offer vehicle access, toilets and fresh water, with the background sound of white water surging up the beach. A camper van New Zealand rental will enable you to reach these sites quickly and to camp there comfortably.

Beginning at dusk, insect repellent is imperative for the large numbers of plaguing mosquitoes. Mornings bring consistent ideal conditions for leisurely swimming in view of fish schools visible when the sun shines over curling surf and good fishing off the rock ledges.

More spectacular coastal views are found on a section of track from Tapotupotu Bay to Sandy Bay, overlooking Spirits Bay and the Cape Reinga lighthouse. Walking here will be among the most memorable experiences of your New Zealand vacation.

The track exits at the end of the beach and rises steeply for breathtaking vistas before making its descent to Sandy Bay. Upward from Tapotupotu Bay is a stream which is best crossed at low tide to take the coastal ridge. A side track continues to Te Paki Trig over 300 meters above sea level. This backpacker New Zealand route is part of the Cape Reinga Coastal Walkway.